FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Whether you're thinking about starting your first class or you're already deep into your training, there’s a lot to take in — from how memberships work, to what to wear, to how long it takes to earn that Black Belt.

This page covers the most common questions we get asked about training, fees, gradings, and everything in between. If you don’t see what you’re looking for, just drop us a message — we’re always happy to help.

Let’s get into it.

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MEMBERSHIP & FEES

Everything you need to know about class pricing, payment options, and what’s included in your Real SSK membership.

  • Training fees are normally paid in person to the class instructor at the start of each class. The fees are set by the individual instructors. The exceptions to this are the City & Central class where the training fees are collected in conjunction with the membership fees.

  • Anyone attending an online class is required to register and pay per class in advance. You can also upgrade either your Basic or Full Membership to include Associate Membership which give you access to all online classes.

  • From Beginner through to Brown Belt the fee per grading is £15.

    Gradings occur broadly every three months for those students that are ready to grade.

Training & Progression

What to wear, what to bring, how classes are structured, and how you progress through the grades.

  • Just wear something comfortable you can move in — gym kit is fine.

    Once you’ve settled in, you’ll be able to order official Real SSK kit.

  • Not at all. We train all levels — from complete beginners to seasoned martial artists. You’ll build fitness as you go.

  • Expect a mix of warm-ups, technique drills, pad work, partner practice and sometimes light sparring.

    Every class is different — but always high energy and structured.

Gradings & Belts

How our belt system works, how long it takes to move up, and what’s involved at each stage — all the way to Black Belt.

  • The very keen student could possibly attempt their Black Belt grading in 27 months. Reality indicates that most students require three years of continuous training.  

  • Our main avenue of competition is via BCCMA events.  These occur across the second half of each year. REALSSK enters competitors into Sanda (Full contact kickboxing), Qingda (Semi contact kickboxing), Shuai Jiao (Chinese Wrestling) and Tuishou (Pushing Hands).

Mindset & Community

What kind of people train here, what support you’ll get, and how we help you build confidence and stay consistent.

  • All sorts. We’ve got working professionals, students, parents, and ex-athletes — all training together. No egos, just good people pushing each other to be better.

  • Not at all. We pride ourselves on being welcoming, supportive, and beginner-friendly. You’ll be guided from day one.

  • Only if you want to. Sparring is optional and always controlled, safe, and suited to your level.