Business Details
11 Years
experience
Premier Martial Arts Training in Helmshore
Established in 2015, West Freestyle Martial Arts has cultivated a reputation as a premier training ground for martial artists, producing champions from regional to world levels. Our club operates under the International Boxing Kickboxing Organisation (IBKO) and prioritises inclusivity, welcoming individuals of all backgrounds and abilities. With a focus on technical excellence and personal development, we offer structured programs in kickboxing, boxing, Muay Thai, and K1-rules, supported by DBS-checked instructors and a comprehensive grading system.Our facility adheres to rigorous safety standards, including risk assessments and safeguarding protocols, ensuring a secure environment for all members. Through flexible membership options and tailored coaching, we cater to both recreational trainees and competitive athletes, fostering a community where skill development and mutual respect are paramount.
Services
Kickboxing Training
Boxing Instruction
Muay Thai Classes
Private Tuition
Grading Assessments
Details
- Year established: 2015
Highlights and features
- We offer structured programs developed by 5th Dan Black Belt Chris West with 25+ years of competitive experience.
- Our DBS-checked instructors hold certifications from IBKO, WKO, and WKA governing bodies.
- Flexible membership options accommodate recreational and competitive athletes.
- We provide a fully risk-assessed facility with safeguarding protocols for children.
- Our grading system combines technical excellence with measurable progression metrics.
Associations and certifications
- International Boxing Kickboxing Organisation (IBKO)
Services
Kickboxing Training
Our kickboxing program combines boxing techniques with martial arts kicks, delivering a comprehensive workout that improves cardiovascular fitness, coordination, and self-defence capabilities. Trained by IBKO-certified instructors, sessions focus on technical precision, pad work, and sparring opportunities for all skill levels. The curriculum integrates elements from WKA and WKO rule sets to develop versatile striking abilities.
Boxing Instruction
Specialised boxing classes follow ABF and WKO regulations, covering fundamental techniques, footwork, and defensive strategies. Instructors with regional director experience guide participants through bag work, partner drills, and competitive preparation. The program caters to both amateur enthusiasts and professional athletes seeking championship-level development.
Grading Assessments
Structured grading evaluations measure technical proficiency across KYU and DAN belt levels, with clear pass/fail criteria based on 50% competency thresholds. Assessments include practical demonstrations, theoretical knowledge checks, and sparring components. Certified examiners from IBKO and WKO oversee the process, awarding embroidered belts and official certificates for successful candidates.
Private Tuition
Personalised training sessions with Chief Instructor Chris West provide tailored skill development for competitive fighters or individuals seeking focused instruction. Sessions cover technical refinement, strength conditioning, and competition strategy, utilising the instructor's 25+ years of championship experience across multiple martial arts disciplines.
Muay Thai Classes
Muay Thai instruction follows traditional techniques while incorporating modern training methodologies. Sessions emphasize clinch work, knee strikes, and elbow techniques within WKA and WKO rule frameworks. Certified instructors with international competition experience guide practitioners through pad drills, partner exercises, and sparring scenarios to develop authentic Muay Thai proficiency.
People
Chris 'The Wolf' West
Chief Instructor
5th Dan Black Belt with 25+ years of competitive experience, multiple world championship medalist, and founder of the International Boxing Kickboxing Organisation. Holds NVQ fitness qualifications and serves as a WKO/IBKO international examiner.
Alexis Kyme
Instructor
IBKO 1st DAN Black Belt and multiple national title holder in kickboxing and boxing. Holds Level 3 Sport & Physical Activity qualification with experience in competitive coaching and grading assessments.
Blaze Lee
Junior Instructor
WFMA Junior Black Belt with multiple European and World Championship titles across kickboxing and boxing divisions. Specialises in youth instruction and competition preparation for junior athletes.
Questions
What martial arts styles do you teach?
We offer kickboxing, boxing, Muay Thai, and K1-rules training under a unified syllabus developed by Master Chris West.
Are your instructors qualified?
All instructors hold IBKO/WKO certifications with DBS checks, including NVQ fitness qualifications and international competition experience.
Do you offer children's classes?
Yes, with safeguarding protocols, risk assessments, and parental consent requirements for under-16 participants.
How does the grading system work?
Progressive KYU/DAN belt system with 50% competency thresholds, half-grades for partial progression, and official IBKO-recognised certifications.
Can I train competitively?
We provide pathways to national/international competitions with experienced coaches who have produced multiple world champions.
What membership options exist?
Annual £25 membership grants access to grading systems, insurance coverage, and competitive opportunities across IBKO-affiliated events.
