Seven Star Women's Kung Fu is a great martial arts school in the Central District. They teach Kajukenbo, which is a modern eclectic style. Before I tried class I wasn't sure if training at an all-women's school would be intense enough, but the women there train every bit as hard as any place I've studied. In fact, they emphasize strength training more than a lot of places do, and they devote as much time to self-defense and street-style techniques as they do to more classical forms, etc. That said, Seven Star is very safety conscious and focuses a lot on good body mechanics. The instructors are all very positive, the instruction is very clear and precise, and the community is totally supportive regardless of your skill level or lack of natural aptitude. There's even free on site childcare so moms can train! Their web site is www.7starwomenskungfu.org. For any guys who may be interested, Seattle Kajukenbo is a closely related school that offers co-ed classes.
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