MEET THE INSTRUCTORS

From a young age Ben began training at MKM Self Defence Academy under Royal Marine Commando Sam Graham, instantly taking to martial arts and fitness. As a result of his training and commitment to self-defence, Ben was selected out of many students to become an MKM Instructor eventually leading to him being the main junior instructor of MKM, in which he has over 5 years of experience. In addition to completing both a personal training qualification and a level 2 kids fitness instructor course. During this period, in 2022 Ben graduated from Sheffield Hallam University with a BSc in Psychology which he applies to his coaching to enable him to bring the best out of his students.

Ben is now a full-time instructor at MKM Self Defence Academy, and his passion for teaching self-defence has led him to help to create Strength School with the goal of increasing fitness and confidence in schools whilst at the same time combatting bullying, thus achieving positive outcomes for children.

  • MKM Head Junior Instructor

  • Level 3 Personal Trainer

  • Level 2 Kids Fitness Instructor

  • Enhanced DBS Checked

  • Emergency First Aid Trained

  • Paediatric First Aid Trained

  • Designated Safeguard Lead (Level 3)

  • Prevent Duty Trained

  • Level 2 Award in Introduction to Mental Health Awareness.

BEN CROSS - HEAD INSTRUCTOR

Rachel is a powerhouse of energy and believes there are no limits to what you can achieve if you put the work in. She has always valued fitness, discovering martial arts in her late 30’s when trying out a self-defence course which unexpectedly revealed a passion for Judo. After several years of rigorous training, Rachel achieved a 1st Dan Black Belt and regularly competed. This resulted in her being selected for the British Masters Squad, all while coaching for the Juniors in her local club.

After recognising the importance of being able to defend yourself, Rachel joined MKM Self Defence Academy and has been an enthusiastic member ever since. Due to Rachel’s commitment and character, after 5 years of consistent self-defence training, she was selected to become an MKM Instructor.

Following 8 years of work in education, Rachel’s love of fitness has now turned into a successful and impactful career, delivering fitness sessions in care homes for all ages and abilities, in addition to, working alongside Ben teaching the Juniors at MKM. As a result of positive benefits of self-defence and fitness on Rachel’s own life, she now prides herself on being an advocate for using martial arts and fitness as a way to create positive benefits and outcomes for children.

  • MKM Assistant Instructor

  • UKCC Level 2 Judo Coach

  • Level 2 Gym Instructor

  • Chair Based Exercise Coach

  • Enhanced DBS Checked

  • Emergency First Aid Trained

  • Understanding Autism Level 2

  • Safeguarding Children Level 1

RACHEL O’KEEFE - INSTRUCTOR