k1k Martial Arts

Coach Phil’s flexibility tips.

Love it or hate it, a good stretching routine is integral to martial arts training. But, beyond having the ability to throw controlled and powerful high kicks, good flexibility means an improved range of motion, better blood flow and generally far less injuries. Coach Phil has extensive knowledge in Neuromuscular Therapy which has informed hisContinue reading “Coach Phil’s flexibility tips.”

Fighter fuel – 10 tips for healthy eating

Nutrition plays a crucial role in the performance and recovery of kickboxers. Here are some key nutrition tips tailored for kickboxers: 1. Balanced Diet: Ensure your diet is balanced, consisting of lean proteins (chicken, fish, tofu), complex carbohydrates (whole grains, fruits, vegetables), healthy fats (avocado, nuts, olive oil), and plenty of vitamins and minerals fromContinue reading “Fighter fuel – 10 tips for healthy eating”

Hard work and loyalty pays off – Jordan Dempsey takes the strap

Coach Phil’s longest serving student takes the ISKA belt and is now the No. 1 amateur K1 fighter in the country. Years of hard work and dedication were rewarded last night as Jordan Dempsey took the split decision to become the 70kg champ. Jordan is also #1 contender for the 67.5kg strap so watch thisContinue reading “Hard work and loyalty pays off – Jordan Dempsey takes the strap”

Legends Collide: The Greatest K1 Fights Ever Seen

1. Ernesto Hoost vs. Peter Aerts II (1997): Dubbed as one of the greatest K-1 fights, this rematch showcased two legends in an intense battle of skill and determination, with Hoost claiming victory by decision after a grueling fight. 2. Andy Hug vs. Mike Bernardo (1996): Known for its explosive action, this fight between HugContinue reading “Legends Collide: The Greatest K1 Fights Ever Seen”

Coach Phil’s Top 5 Martial Arts movies

Some controversial choices here, alongside some stone cold classics!

How to deal with nerves when competing

Collage of 4 photos of fighters preparing to fight

The hours and minutes before a fight can be tense and nerve wracking. If you go into the ring in the wrong state of mind you can lose focus and not perform to the best of your ability. We asked our coaches and some of our experienced fighters for some tips and tricks to calmContinue reading “How to deal with nerves when competing”

ISKA Irish Open Registration

It is the last week to register for the ISKA Open – register at the link below (available to all students who attend advanced class). Event details: ISKA Amateur Irish Open 2024 This event will be used as part of the selection campaign for fighters to qualify and earn their chance to join Team IrelandContinue reading “ISKA Irish Open Registration”

Valkyries Mothers Day Show

Amber Lennon leaning in the corner of a boxing ring between rounds, getting advice from Phil Whyte and being fanned by Jordan Dempsey

What a team we have. Firstly, thank you to Dave Gordon for a great show under very difficult circumstances. The level of the ladies was unreal. My Amber Kitty Lennon with a “draw”. Never a draw in my book but we take it and move on. Brilliant performance. Ailish Noonan with a 3rd rd stoppageContinue reading “Valkyries Mothers Day Show”

Technique Breakdown – Roundhouse Kick

To throw a perfect roundhouse kick: 1. Stance – Start in a stable stance with your feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, and your body weight evenly distributed. 2. Chamber – Lift your knee up and across your body towards your chest, rotating your hips inward. 3. Extension – Extend your leg fully, aiming yourContinue reading “Technique Breakdown – Roundhouse Kick”

Bad Intentions 8

Thanks to all who had a hand in organising the Bad Intentions 8 card. Congratulations to Liam Millerick, Jordan Dempsey and Jay Dennis for picking up wins against skilled and game opponents. Much respect to Gav McKee and Amber Lennon for putting on great fights, it didn’t go their way this time but we winContinue reading “Bad Intentions 8”