SEVEN STAR WOMEN'S KUNG FU
Am I physically ready/able to start martial arts training?
Concerns about starting training might include questions about age, flexibility, body size, being out of shape, poor hand-eye coordination, etc.
Our student body encompasses a wide range of sizes and ages, and many women who did not previously consider themselves athletic (or still don't) have become excellent martial artists.
Our beginner's class is designed to accommodate all fitness levels. Lots of stretching and warm-up exercises, as well as a gradual increase in workout intensity, prepare students to join the All School classes.
What if I have an old injury or other physical limitations?
Kajukenbo is generally more open to modification to suit a person's strengths or limitations than many traditional martial arts. In most cases we can help you find ways to train safely.
Speak to the instructor about any concerns before or after your first class, so that she is aware of them and can help you identify exercises that you may need to modify. You are also welcome to discuss any physical issues with the head instructor before you decide whether or not to sign up. E-mail sevenstarwomen@yahoo.com, or call
How is self defense incorporated with the martial arts training?
We teach beginners both verbal and physical self-defense, focusing on de-escalation, not engaging with a person who is harassing you, projecting self-confidence, attacking vulnerable targets, and escaping from grabs. Though beginners also learn the basics of Kajukenbo, self-defense is a major focus, as we want women to have the basic skills to defend themselves even if they don't continue martial arts training.
After the beginner's cycle, the focus turns more to Kajukenbo, but we continue to practice self defense and teach more advanced strategies, such as how to defend against multiple attackers or attackers with weapons. As students move up through the ranks, they also begin learning aspects of Kajukenbo that are directly applicable to self defense, such as street fighting.
How much does it cost to train? Will I have to sign a contract?
Seven Star does not use contracts. The eight-week beginner's cycle is $150; after that dues are month-to-month. The amount is determined by a sliding scale based on income, and ranges from $85 to $120 per month. You do not need to buy a uniform or any special equipment, though you may want to purchase your own sparring gear at some point.
Scholarships are available to help with the cost of both the beginner's cycle and regular dues. If you would like to apply for a scholarship, ask for a form either when you register for the beginner's cycle or on your first night of class.
Can you really develop good fighting skills when you train only with other women?
An all-female school can be a great environment for developing good fighting and self-defense skills. You will quickly find that being female is no impediment to being a challenging partner, and there are plenty of women who will push you to the extent of your skills and abilities.
By contrast, some male training partners don't give their best when they fight a woman, feeling that it's unmanly or unchivalrous. Others may use their greater size and strength to overpower an inexperienced female opponent, rather than giving her an appropriate level of challenge so that she can develop the skills needed to fight someone larger and stronger. This is certainly not true of all men or all mixed-gender schools, but it has historically been a major issue for women trying to break into the male-dominated martial arts world.
We do provide opportunities to train with men for those who choose to do so. Our monthly open-sparring sessions are open to men.
What is the promotion/ranking system?
Students who complete the beginner's cycle are considered white belts, though they do not receive a belt for this rank. When the instructors decide they are ready (typically after six to ten months of training), students test for orange belt. Next is purple, followed by blue, green, brown and black. After that there are various degrees of black belt.
Students who train regularly and frequently may reach black belt in five to seven years, though it is not unusual for it to take longer.
Why does it take so long to get a black belt?
In many styles and schools, serious training doesn't really begin until black belt, which is achieved relatively quickly.
At Seven Star, students are considered intermediates at purple and blue belt, and join the advanced class and become eligible to teach at green belt. Black belt is awarded only when a student demonstrates sufficient mastery of the core Kajukenbo curriculum, teaching principles, and martial arts philosophy that the head instructor feels she is capable of starting her own school (regardless of whether she intends to do so).
Do you do tournaments?
Some individual students have competed in tournaments, with the full support of the school, but the school as a whole does not participate in tournaments. We do a style of sparring that uses additional targets and different rules than tournament style.
Can I come watch a class?
Women are welcome to observe a class, as long as they arrange it beforehand with the instructor.
Because some students may have issues with being watched by men—whether due to a history of abuse, religious restrictions, or simple discomfort—in most cases we do not allow men to watch classes. However, you can invite men to your belt tests, so don't worry that your male friends and relatives will never get to see you in action!