The Amateur Kickboxing Academy (AKA) system was established in 2008 and is a combination of Karate, Freestyle Kickboxing, Muay Thai, Western Boxing and other basic self-defence techniques.

However, some of the skills taught within the style are not included in the sparring element of the syllabus for health and safety reasons.

I started martial arts (Taekwondo) in 1971 as a ten year old in Belfast, Northern Ireland. However, due to the club folding I found it difficult to find another one within travelling distance. I did not get involved again until I was an adult and attended self defence classes.

After moving to England I started training at a Wado Ryu based karate club that came under the umbrella of the Amateur Martial Association (AMA). I achieved my 1st Dan in 2001. In 2003 I passed my 2nd Dan with the English Karate Organisation (EKO) and December 2007 achieved my 3rd Dan with the AMA.

In 2011 I was presented my 4^th Dan in Freestyle for time served in the Martial Arts by Cobra Martial Arts Association (CMAA). Due to many special requests from my students and my ambition to set up a club based on my experiences in Western Boxing (I hold an elementary Boxing Tutor qualification), Sport Karate and Self Defence, I formed the AKA in January 2008.

In 2009 I set up the Amateur Fighting Arts Association (AFAA) that is the umbrella body of the Amateur Kickboxing Academy, Ki Wa Ryu Karate club, Freestyle Boxing and Recreational Kickboxing Academies. Churn Valley Kickboxing club are also affiliated members to the AFAA.

The AFAA is a full member of the Cobra Martial Arts Association (C.M.A.A) who are the National Supporting Body for all Martial Arts.

 Alan Reid Chief Instructor & Founder   4^th Dan Kickboxing, CMAA:  3^rd Dan Karate, AMA