Dylan Garner-Richards

Growing up at ZKS

I started martial arts at the age of five and have been part of ZKS ever since. What began as a childhood hobby gradually became a lifelong passion. As I grew up, I discovered how much I enjoyed not only training but also helping others learn and improve.

I have trained in Taijutsu, Muay Thai and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. I hold a Taijutsu Black Belt, a Level 3 Muay Thai Instructor qualification and a four-stripe white belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. I am working towards my senior black belt, with the aim of achieving it in 2027.

From student to Sensei Dylan

I began assisting with classes at sixteen, then took on more responsibility and started teaching my own classes around the age of eighteen or nineteen. Discovering how much I enjoyed helping students develop inspired me to take that next step.

Today I teach Little Dragons, Mini Ninjas and Junior Martial Arts at Aylesbury HQ. Progressing from a young ZKS student to an instructor is one of my proudest achievements. Helping the next generation develop their skills, confidence and passion for martial arts means a great deal to me.

Fun, encouragement and progress

My teaching style is fun, engaging and encouraging. I want students to enjoy themselves and leave every lesson having learnt something new. I aim to make everyone feel comfortable, included and supported, whatever their ability, while encouraging them to challenge themselves and do their best.

One of the most rewarding parts of teaching is seeing students develop over time: watching their confidence grow, helping them overcome challenges and seeing them become more comfortable with their abilities. I want to create the same positive experience that I had growing up at ZKS.

Beyond martial arts skills, I hope students develop confidence, discipline, respect and resilience. I want them to believe in themselves and carry what they learn in the dojo into everyday life.

Advice for your first class

It is completely normal to feel nervous when trying something new. You do not need to get everything right straight away. Everyone starts somewhere, and we are here to help you learn, have fun and build confidence at your own pace. Give it a go and enjoy yourself.

Be patient with yourself and never be afraid to make mistakes. Martial arts takes time, practice and perseverance. Listen, keep trying and celebrate the small improvements along the way. Most importantly, have fun and do not give up just because something feels difficult at first.

Giving back to the ZKS community

ZKS is more than a place where I have learnt martial arts; it is a family that has helped shape who I am. Having grown from student to assistant and then instructor, I am proud to give something back and help the next generation experience the same opportunities.

Over the next few years, I want to continue developing as an instructor, gain more experience and help my students progress, alongside working towards my senior black belt in 2027. Being part of ZKS means continuing to grow myself while helping others grow too.