Kickboxing is our most elegant discipline, where the aspiration is to ‘flow like water’ with kicks, punches, spins, sweeps and good posture.
Our Kickboxing classes provide a high-intensity workout while teaching proper techniques for punches, kicks, and strikes. Kickboxing is a combination of self-defence, aerobic workout, flexibility, co-ordination and speed. It is one of the most popular styles of Martial Arts. Kickboxing can help avoid threatening situations or deal with them effectively if they occur.
Kickboxing also provides an excellent opportunity for social interaction in a fun, healthy and a very exciting environment.
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Gradings and courses monitor the student’s progress through levels of training. These grades and courses are used as reference points and help Instructors guide their students through the system. Students are expected to observe correct Dojo etiquette and to maintain a level of fitness appropriate to their grade.
Our Kickboxing attack and defence techniques (Meiji Pairs) enable students to develop distance and timing when dealing with an attacking combination. They have been designed by our professional instructors and put to the test in Kickboxing tournaments and full contact fights, so we know they work under intense conditions. Meiji Pairs enable you to practise sparring techniques in a controlled environment without the risk of getting hurt. You’ll develop reaction time, speed, footwork and control, so you’ll be ready to put them to the test in our light-touch sparring classes.
Sensei Denise has a lifetime of kickboxing behind her, a 7th Dan World & European Champion, international judge & referee. She's the guiding light to our team of exceptional instructors, whilst always being in the dojo herself, teaching and inspiring.
https://player.vimeo.com/video/958484569
YEAR
EVENT
PLACE
1987
Mod-Ka Invitational
2nd
B.M.A.F
1st
A.K.A National Championships
1st
A.M.A National Championships
1st
1988
B.M.A.F
1st
Mod-Ka Open
1st
A.M.A National Championships
1st
1990
W.A.K.O European Championships (Venice)
2nd
W.A.K.O World Championships (Madrid)
2nd
1991
A.M.A International (Spain)
1st
British Championships
1st
W.A.K.O World Championships (London)
1st
1992
British Championships
1st
W.A.K.O European Championships (Bulgaria)
2nd
1993
British Championships
1st
1994
British Championships
1st
W.A.K.O European Championships (Portugal)
3rd
1995
British Championships
1st
W.A.K.O World Championships (Germany)
3rd
1996
A.M.A International (Spain)
1st
British Championships
1st
W.A.K.O European Championships (Venice)
1st
1997
A.M.A Open - Tournament Organiser
W.A.K.O World Championships (Dubrovnik) - Women's Team Captain
1998
W.A.K.O European Championships (Germany) - Women's Team Captain
1999
W.A.K.O World Championships (Venice) - Women's Team Coach
Sensei John Ruocco
5th Dan
Sensei John has been a kickboxer since 1994, bringing comprehensive fighting skills to the dojo. He is a 5th Dan, and will share his knowledge with you on your own journey.
"You can apply Meiji Kickboxing to all aspects of your life."
John Ruocco
Sensei Alex Blomquist
4th Dan
Sensei Alex 'The Sponge' Blomquist started his martial arts training in 1998 at the age of 15 under the watchful eye of Sensei Denise.
After 3 years of training he became a full-time instructor and worked his way towards achieving his 1st Dan Black Belt at age 20. He has competed in numerous martial arts tournaments across the country, winning a Silver medal at the British Championships in 2005 and a gold medal in Barcelona at the Spanish Championships in 2006.
He went on to achieve his 4th Dan Black Belt in 2013. He brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the Dojo, helping to shape and develop the martial arts curriculum over the years. He has a passion for helping to develop students of all ages and ability levels, and is keen to pass on his knowledge to his students and junior instructors alike.
Sensei James Guerrero
2nd Dan
Born and raised in London, Sensei James started his kickboxing journey at the age of 4.
His love for the sport began to flourish whilst at secondary school when he was faced with the challenges of being bullied over his weight and height. This was a particularly difficult time for him, and it was with the support of his martial arts family and the confidence that the discipline and adjustment of mind brings that aided his growth, development and true sense of self.
He was so dedicated that he was awarded his black belt and encouraged to begin teaching at the age of 15, and this was the beginning of his passion for teaching.
"There is nothing more rewarding than being a part of someone else's development".
James Guerrero
His commitment and dedication were such that he was awarded his first Dan at 17, and encouraged to participate in several competitions, which led to his 2nd Dan at the age of 19.
Under the mentorship and guidance of Sensei Denise, his perception of life transformed, and he has learned that true and enduring success will always be built upon a solid team and community foundation.
Sensei Jamal Stern
2nd Dan
"Champions aren't made in gyms. Champions are made from something they have deep inside them -a desire, a dream, a vision. They have to have the skill, and the will but the will must be stronger than the skill." - Muhammad Ali
My martial arts journey started when I was 10 years old training in Wing Chun. Progressing into my teens I yearned to develop myself more and began my kickboxing journey. Following various kickboxing styles I found my home when I started training with Sensei Denise in 2006. After receiving my 2nd Dan Black Belt in 2013 I was keen to push myself further and stepping out my comfort zone I took up Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu which I continue to this day.
Sensei Jamal says "Victory loves preparation and where there is preparation there is no fear".
Jamal Stern
Sensei Gibson Ariza
Black Belt
My martial arts journey began in the Philippines when I was 9, for about 3 and a half years. After taking a break to focus on my studies, I began training in boxing and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and had 2 successful competitions. Then my mother moved us to Blackpool, UK in 2011 for a better life.
It was a new beginning. I discovered a different passion when I became a break-dancer with Freefly crew for 7 years. But although my dancing career took me to many places, martial arts was still my greatest passion. I tried taekwondo but I wanted to integrate my boxing skills, and this led me eventually to kickboxing
Seeking better opportunities, I moved to London where I became Sensei Denise's student. This steered my career as a junior instructor, and with diligent hard work I achieved my Black belt in 2018. I have been privileged to work alongside Sensei Denise and my kickboxing family ever since.
Sempai Mayan Zucker
Junior Instructor Belt
After moving to London at the age of 4 from Tel Aviv, I was quickly swept into the world of sports. Over the years, having tried a variety of sports such as gymnastics, netball and competitive swimming, I found myself unsatisfied in terms of my progress, happiness and health. At the age of 15, I was introduced to the world of kickboxing. It changed my perspective on everything that came my way. It gave me the confidence and discipline that I needed in my everyday life to grow as a person both inside and out.
Now, after completing my A-levels in Fine Art, Fashion and Photography, I've moved forward in my education and been accepted to study an art foundation as a pre-university course through the 'University of the Arts London'. Over the next year or two, I hope to proceed to a degree course in Fine Art on the human body.
My enthusiasm for kickboxing has fed into my understanding of how the human body works, both physically and mentally, and helped me to create art and designs that portray my view on the world's rights and wrongs, the beauty of our functioning bodies and of life itself.
Sempai Radha Castellino Dominguez
Black Belt
When I was 9 years old I was fidgety, awkward and a little chubby. I had tried a few sports but found them generally uninteresting and difficult. I have always felt a lot of pressure to be the best at everything I do. At kickboxing, I felt no pressure, finishing every class feeling empowered and satisfied, even though I was a bit ungainly.
Sensei Denise inspired me, and her team have always made me feel safe. I never felt clumsy or useless as I did with other sports. They taught me values (self-control, discipline, hard work) and the self-confidence I gained has positively impacted many areas of my life.
I am currently doing my GCSEs as well as several extra-curricular activities. Kickboxing gives me a safe space to forget any stress, to unwind and refocus in a safe environment, leaving my problems at the door.
Sempai Vlad Zaremskyi
I have been fascinated with martial arts since childhood. My journey into that world began in Ukraine. Once when I was 25 years old I saw a Taekwon-do ITF competition. I was so impressed by the graceful technique and the speed of the kicking, it led me to Taekwon-do and so determined my future career. I am a Taekwon-do (ITF) coach with competitive experience and 12 years of teaching experience. I also have a Bachelor's degree in Physical Education and am 2nd Dan Black Belt in Taekwon-do ITF.
In the middle of 2022, my family and I arrived in London. This was a difficult period in our lives. I started learning a new language and after a while I became interested in martial arts clubs. Once I got to the Meiji Dojo as a student, I was pleasantly surprised by the friendly and hospitable atmosphere as well as the competence of the instructors. This is the place that I wanted to be. I had the honour of meeting Sensei Denise and her wonderful team, which I am fortunate to have become a part of.
Since Taekwon-do (ITF) and kickboxing have a lot in common, I am happy to share my knowledge and skills, but I also discovered a lot of new and interesting methods and techniques in the Meiji Dojo, which provide me with additional and valuable experience.
I am happy that I now have the gift of continuing my martial arts journey with the Meiji team.
Join the Team
Do you have what it takes to be a Meiji Instructor?
We’re expanding rapidly and looking for people of calibre with a passion to teach.
"This team of instructors are diamonds; great kick-boxers, fantastic teachers and impeccable in their approach. I could not recommend them more highly."
Nili Newman
5 out of 5 stars
"OUTSTANDING! I have been training with Sensei Denise and her amazing team for almost 10 years. You will not find a more professional, caring and dedicated kickboxing centre of excellence – anywhere. Join today, you will not be disappointed!"
Maier
5 out of 5 stars
"So delighted this kickboxing club has opened. Such a great atmosphere and fantastic skilled Instructors. Great club for the whole family. 10/10"
Philip Green
5 out of 5 stars
"These guys are highly professional trainers. I can only give the highest superlatives and recommendations. Try and you will not be sorry!"
Amit Kraus
5 out of 5 stars
"Highly experienced, friendly, passionate about their art, and an excellent range of lessons - I cannot recommend these Senseis highly enough."
