Strikeback Programmes

Supporting Mental Health & Recovery

StrikeBack offers structured, non-contact, kickboxing conditioning programmes designed to support individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, or recovery from substance use.

The programmes focus on non-contact skill development, structured physical activity, and gradual progression, helping participants build confidence, routine, and physical capability.

Sessions are led by a NZIHF certified facilitator with lived experience of long term depression and alcohol dependence.

The Strikeback Method

1. Movement

Structured Physical Training

  • Rhythmic, physical movement
  • Improve fitness and energy
  • Consistent, guided activity
  • Builds routine and momentum 

2. Skill

Kickboxing Fundamentals

  • Simple, progressive technique learning

  • Coordination and balance

  • Goal-focused sessions

  • Measurable progress over time

3. Regulation

Body-Based Stress & Tension Management

  • Controlled breathing and pacing

  • Safe, controlled release of physical tension

  • Improved body awareness

  • Supports calm, mindful focus, and emotional regulation

Outcomes

  • Improved mood
  • Reduced stress
  • Increased confidence
  • Improved self-esteem
  • Stronger sense of agency & control

Why Kickboxing Training is Especially Effective for Somatic Regulation

Rhythmic, Repetitive Movement

Punching and kicking create structured, rhythmic patterns.

This helps:

  • regulate breathing

  • calm the nervous system

  • create a sense of flow

Controlled Release of Tension

Striking pads allows:

  • safe release of built-up physical tension

  • expression of energy (without aggression or harm)

  • reduction in stress load in the body

Immediate Feedback & Focus

Pad work requires timing, coordination & attention.

This creates:

  • strong present-moment focus

  • reduced rumination

  • mental “reset”

Bilateral Coordination 

Kickboxing training uses both sides of the body  which helps:

  • integrate brain and body

  • improve focus

  • reduce mental “stuckness”

Who the Programme May Benefit

StrikeBack may be suitable for individuals who:

  • experience depression or anxiety
  • are recovering from substance use
  • feel uncomfortable in traditional gym environments
  • want to rebuild confidence and physical capability
  • benefit from structured, guided activity
  • No previous fitness or martial arts experience is required.

Programme Format

StrikeBack sessions can be delivered as:

  • one-on-one training 
  • groups of two participants
  • structured 6 session programmes
  • ongoing weekly sessions

Session Locations & Equipment

Sessions can be conducted:

  • at your organisation
  • at the clients home
  • in local parks or community spaces

Minimal space is required and all equipment is provided. 

About the Facilitator

Tony Afendoulis is an Exercise Consultant (NZIHF) and trains regularly at City Kickboxing in Auckland.

His approach is informed by lived experience of long-term depression and recovery from alcohol dependence. Kickboxing training has played a key role in his own mental health and wellbeing, shaping a programme focused on consistency, gradual progress, and supportive coaching.

Contact Strikeback

If your organisation would like to explore a pilot programme or discuss whether Strikeback may be suitable for the people you support, please get in touch.

Contact: Tony Afendoulis / Email: tony.strikeback@gmail.com / Phone: 020 40276280

Nb. We’ve chosen a 'social media-free' path to prioritise mental health and privacy.

 

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