Emma Thomas

Martial Arts Coach

Emma joined EPiC in 2017 with simple goals: to get fitter, learn martial arts, and find a positive outlet.
Starting with one-to-one coaching under Andy Cleeves, Matt Roberts, and Rakan Sabbah, she quickly developed a passion for training that led her into competitive kickboxing. She went on to compete internationally with the team, fighting across Croatia, Ireland, Amsterdam, and Belgium.
Alongside her training, Emma has taken part in a number of charity challenges, including a skydive with Coach Rakan. In 2019, she spent six months in Canada working with at-risk youth, supporting and leading back-country wilderness trips — an experience that pushed her well outside her comfort zone and played a key role in shaping the confident coach she is today.
During the pandemic, Emma stepped up for the EPiC community, delivering over 100 online sessions. She led both educational and fitness-based classes for younger members, as well as running live cooking sessions to bring structure, routine, and a sense of connection during lockdown.
Emma has also expanded her combat sports journey into boxing, training with Bristol Girls Boxing Club. She competed internationally in Gibraltar in a unique bout held on a yacht, securing the win, and has also fought and won on the Bristol show.
In 2025, Emma returned to Canada, spending time in Vancouver working at an animal rehabilitation centre, where she helped rescue, rehabilitate, and release a wide range of wildlife.
At EPiC, Emma coaches across a variety of classes, including Little Dragons, kids kickboxing, kids boxing, and adult kickboxing. She also leads the Ladies Kickboxing sessions — a dedicated space that supports and empowers a growing community of women both on and off the mats.
Outside of EPiC, Emma enjoys training, spending time with friends and family, and continuing her passion for working with animals. Her journey from student to coach is a strong reflection of the EPiC pathway, showing what can be achieved through consistency, support, and stepping outside your comfort zone.