When Ore Village Primary Academy decided to host a ‘breakout afternoon’ last week Hastings Kickboxing Academy (HKA) was there to lend a hand and to let the youngsters have a first hand taste of the sport. 

The idea of the breakout afternoon was to break away from the curriculum and encourage children to try new activities, 32 children, joined HKA chief instructor Carl Denne and his team who spent an enjoyable afternoon at the school teaching the children some basic kickboxing skills, self-defence and life skills and as Carl puts it, “some good old fitness drills”.

Carl says: “It was a great experience for those involved and a first for many. The children were being healthy and active while learning how to safely defend themselves. All the children seemed to really enjoy the 90 minute session and one year two told me, ‘this is the best Friday afternoon I’ve had in my life’ and asked if we could do it every week!”

 Other activities ranged from art, a bike ride, fishing, football, singing and rock pooling.

For Carl kickboxing is about much more than just the regular sessions at the gym he has established productive and effective relationships with several schools across the town and he is actively involved in campaigning against bullying.

“HKA is very proud to be so actively involved with many schools across Hastings and we are always keen to hear from people interesting in finding out more about the sport. Anyone who wants more information and details on getting involved with the HKA can either visit our website www.hastingskickboxing.co.uk or contact me directly on 07949 221946,” says carl.