Fleetwood martial arts academy kick starts post-lockdown classes in new dojo

Evolution Karate and Kickboxing Academy moved into Evolve Dojo on Copse Road, Fleetwood last week after receiving assurance from health and safety officials that it was Covid-secure.

The academy, which has been running for six years in various Fylde coast venues, allows no contact between students and has set up stations around the dojo to keep them a safe distance apart.

Rachel Slater, 39, who runs the academy with Scott Thomson, explained how classes would work with no contact allowed.

"We're really excited to have a brand new dojo, and because of the current pandemic we're having to go back to a more traditional style of teaching," she said.

"There will be no contact allowed between the students, and I have limited the class sizes to six people.

"We've set up mats on the floor three square metres apart, so we can make sure everyone is kept apart safely."

Students will not be permitted to take part in any grappling or throwing, instead learning by way of movement and techniques individually.

The academy is open to anyone aged four years and over, with children's, adults and family classes held at the dojo.

To find out more, visit the academy's Facebook page.