Our School

Founded in 2015 by Shkar and Kristina, Kung Fu Zone began as a small community project and has grown into one of London’s leading schools for traditional Chinese martial arts. From humble beginnings in local halls, we’ve built our own dedicated two-floor dojo in the heart of the city, offering over 50 classes a week for adults and children.

Our vision has always been about more than martial arts. We’re a family-run school dedicated to physical, mental, and social wellbeing — helping people of all ages build confidence, discipline, and strength through consistent, high-quality training.

As our school has grown, so has our teaching team. We’ve brought together expert coaches across different disciplines — from Brazilian Jiu Jitsu to Yoga — to give our members the most complete and well-rounded experience possible.

Beyond the mats, we take pride in our role within the local community: running charity events, hosting seminars, and creating spaces where people feel supported at every stage of their journey.

Shkar is the founder and head instructor at Kung Fu Zone, and the author of Understanding Kung Fu – Demystifying Traditional Concepts. With over twenty-five years of rich experience in martial arts, Shkar brings depth and authenticity to his teachings. He specialises in the Tiger Crane Combination Kung Fu system and the White Crane Soft Fist, known as Shuang Yang, while also training in Yang Style Taijiquan, Baguazhang and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.

Beyond training physical techniques, Shkar has delved into the spiritual and philosophical traditions that often underpin martial arts. This diverse background equips him to teach martial arts in the way the ancient masters intended, adding an invaluable layer of depth and authenticity to Kung Fu Zone’s curriculum.

Under Shkar’s guidance, students at Kung Fu Zone learn not just martial techniques, but also the profound teachings that accompany them. Located in the heart of London, our school, led by Shkar, offers a holistic approach to martial arts training. Whether you’re a beginner or seeking to deepen your practice, Shkar’s expertise promises a transformative journey.

Kristina heads our immensely popular children’s Kung Fu school. With almost 20 years of experience in traditional Chinese martial arts, her journey began with Kung Fu and Tai Chi in the mid-2000s, and there has been no turning back since. Hailing from Bulgaria, Kristina initially found her passion for physical activity as a distinguished member of a competitive aerobics group, proudly representing her country on national and international stages.

However, the moment she discovered Kung Fu, her life underwent a profound transformation. Kristina’s unwavering dedication earned her international champion status, securing two gold medals at the prestigious Southern Shaolin Invitational Tournament in China. Through her Kung Fu journey, she absorbed the invaluable virtues of discipline, hard work, and unwavering focus. Simultaneously, she nurtured qualities such as patience, compassion, and self-acceptance.

At Kung Fu Zone, Kristina brings her wealth of experience and wisdom to passionately lead our children’s curriculum. Her mission is to empower her students, guiding them to a deeper understanding of their bodies and minds. As a devoted mother of two young children herself, Kristina places paramount importance on instilling the values of effort and diligence from a young age. Her steadfast belief is that traditional martial arts, above all else, empowers individuals to realise that success in life is a direct result of their dedication and unwavering commitment.

Pan has dedicated over 15 years to the martial arts as a practitioner and coach.

He began his journey with Wing Chun Kung Fu and later turned to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in order to develop a well rounded skill set as a martial practitioner.

He has a deep interest in relational play dynamics and believes that training in martial arts allows access to these creative flow spaces.

Coaching is a large part of Pan’s focus. Through coaching, he developed an interest in fitness and conditioning as a key component of martial practice.

Running a fitness and conditioning program for martial artists led him to becoming a certified personal trainer and Animal Flow instructor with a focus on foundational movement and embodiment practices.

As an artist, Pan takes this interest in physical embodiment and movement into his practice. Channelling his martial and movement practices into large scale mark making works.

Pan believes that the martial arts and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in particular, is a valuable practice that can help children and adults develop key skills and character that are difficult to find in everyday life.

His primary desire is to help people progress along their journeys towards their goals, whatever they may be.

Emilie is a Yoga instructor at Kung Fu Zone. She first discovered yoga in 2008 while travelling and quickly realised it was more than just a form of exercise, it became a lifelong practice and a central part of her journey of self-discovery and well-being. Since then, she has continued to develop her knowledge and practice, immersing herself in different styles and approaches.

In 2017, Emilie qualified as a Yoga teacher, allowing her to share her passion and experience with others. Three years later, in 2020, she co-founded The Yoga Studio London with her husband, creating a dedicated space for people to explore yoga and its many benefits. Her teaching is rooted in patience, care, and a genuine love for the practice.

Emilie enjoys delivering a range of styles, including Restorative, Slow Flow, and Alignment Yoga. In her classes, she places emphasis on cultivating centre and balance, aligning body and mind, and finding a sense of inner peace. Her aim is to guide students not only through postures, but towards a deeper connection with themselves.