Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about Qwan Ki Do, Tai Chi, memberships, classes, free trials, self-defence, and martial arts for children and adults.
Qwan Ki Do FAQs
General Questions
Qwan Ki Do is a traditional Vietnamese martial art founded by Grandmaster Pham Xuan Tong in 1981. It combines traditional Vietnamese martial arts, Chinese Kung Fu techniques, and modern training methods to develop both physical ability and mental discipline.
Students learn striking, kicking, self-defence, throws, joint locks, traditional forms (Thao Quyên), breathing exercises, and personal development.
Yes. Our classes are designed for complete beginners as well as experienced martial artists. You don't need any previous martial arts experience to start training.
Our instructors will guide you through the fundamentals at your own pace.
We welcome students from:
- Children aged 4-6
- Kids aged 7-12
- Teens aged 13-17
- Adults of all ages
Each class is structured according to age and ability, ensuring students learn in a safe and supportive environment.
Not at all.
Many adults begin martial arts later in life to improve fitness, confidence, flexibility, mobility and mental wellbeing.
Whether you're in your 20s, 40s or beyond, our instructors adapt training to your fitness level.
We currently run Qwan Ki Do classes in:
- Hendon (North West London)
- Norwich
- Evesham
Each club follows the same structured teaching programme while maintaining a welcoming community atmosphere.
This depends on your membership.
Children typically train twice per week, while adult classes are held weekly, with opportunities to attend additional events, seminars and grading preparation sessions throughout the year.
Yes.
Your first Qwan Ki Do class is completely free, allowing you to experience our teaching style before committing to membership.
Booking a free trial is simple through our website.
For your trial class, simply wear:
- Comfortable sports clothing
- A T-shirt
- Joggers or shorts
- A bottle of water
No martial arts uniform is required for your first lesson.
Kids Martial Arts
Qwan Ki Do helps children develop:
- Confidence
- Discipline
- Respect
- Focus
- Coordination
- Balance
- Fitness
- Self-control
- Social skills
Our classes also encourage teamwork, perseverance and positive behaviour both inside and outside the training hall.
Absolutely.
Many parents tell us their children become more confident after joining our classes.
Students learn to overcome challenges, communicate with others and gradually build confidence through structured progression and positive encouragement.
Yes. Safety is one of our highest priorities.
Our instructors are DBS checked and certified in safeguarding and first aid.
Classes are carefully supervised and techniques are taught progressively according to each student's age and ability.
Yes. Safety is one of our highest priorities.
Our instructors are DBS checked and certified in safeguarding and first aid.
Classes are carefully supervised and techniques are taught progressively according to each student's age and ability.
Adults
Yes.
Qwan Ki Do includes practical self-defence techniques while also teaching awareness, control and confidence in challenging situations.
The focus is on effective technique rather than aggression.
Definitely.
Training improves:
- Cardiovascular fitness
- Strength
- Flexibility
- Coordination
- Balance
- Mobility
- Core stability
Regular training also supports stress relief and overall mental wellbeing.
No.
Many students begin with little or no previous fitness experience.
Training naturally improves your fitness over time.
We offer affordable monthly memberships for:
- Children
- Adults
- Siblings
Memberships include regular weekly classes with no long-term contracts.
Please visit our Membership page for the latest pricing.
No.
Memberships can be cancelled at any time with the required notice period.
There are no long-term commitments.
Not for your first lesson.
As you continue training, your instructor will advise when it's appropriate to purchase:
- Uniform (Vo Phuc)
- Belt
- Training equipment
We'll guide you through everything you need.
About Qwan Ki Do
Qwan Ki Do combines:
- Traditional Vietnamese martial arts
- Chinese Kung Fu influences
- Modern coaching methods
- Practical self-defence
- Traditional forms
- Moral values and discipline
Training develops both body and mind, placing equal importance on respect, humility and personal growth.
Yes.
Qwan Ki Do includes practical self-defence techniques while also teaching awareness, control and confidence in challenging situations.
The focus is on effective technique rather than aggression.
No.
While students learn effective self-defence, the primary goal is personal development.
Training encourages:
- Respect
- Self-confidence
- Discipline
- Mental focus
- Healthy living
- Lifelong learning
Getting started is easy.
- Book your free trial class.
- Attend your first session.
- Meet your instructors.
- Enjoy the experience.
- Join our friendly Qwan Ki Do members community if you love it.
Tai Chi FAQs
Tai Chi is an ancient Chinese practice that combines slow, flowing movements, controlled breathing, and mindful focus.
Originally developed as a martial art, it is now widely practised to improve health, balance, flexibility, and overall wellbeing.
Our Tai Chi classes are suitable for anyone looking to improve both physical and mental health through gentle, structured exercise.
No. Our Tai Chi classes are beginner-friendly and suitable for all experience levels.
Your instructor will guide you through each movement step by step, allowing you to progress comfortably at your own pace.
Tai Chi is suitable for adults of all ages and fitness levels.
It is particularly beneficial for people who want to:
- Improve balance and coordination
- Increase flexibility and mobility
- Reduce stress and anxiety
- Improve posture
- Build gentle strength
- Support overall health and wellbeing
Many people also use Tai Chi as a complementary activity alongside other forms of exercise or martial arts.
Yes. Tai Chi is often recommended for older adults because of its low-impact movements and focus on balance, coordination, and controlled movement.
Regular practice can help improve stability, confidence in movement, and overall mobility.
Tai Chi is a low-impact form of exercise that can be adapted to suit different fitness levels.
While the movements are slow and controlled, regular practice helps develop strength, endurance, coordination, and body awareness over time.
Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely, along with flat, supportive footwear suitable for indoor exercise.
There's no special equipment required for your first class.
Many people find Tai Chi to be deeply relaxing. The combination of slow movements, breathing techniques, and focused attention can help reduce stress, improve concentration, and promote a sense of calm and wellbeing.
Yes. Tai Chi (Tai Chi Chuan) is a traditional internal Chinese martial art. While it is widely practised today for its health benefits, it also contains self-defence principles and martial applications that can be explored as students progress.
Absolutely. Many students choose to train in both disciplines.
Tai Chi complements Qwan Ki Do by improving balance, breathing, body awareness, flexibility, relaxation, and control, while Qwan Ki Do develops dynamic movement, fitness, and practical self-defence.
You're welcome to book a free trial session to experience Tai Chi for yourself.
Whether you're looking to improve your health, reduce stress, or simply enjoy gentle exercise in a friendly environment, our instructors will help you get started with confidence.