Reading School Of Martial Arts - Empowering Women Through Traditional Martial Arts
Specialised kung fu training for women in Reading - Building strength, confidence, and self-defence skills in a supportive, female-focused environment
Discover your inner strength through authentic kung fu training designed specifically for women. At Reading School Of Martial Arts, we provide a safe, supportive environment where women of all ages and abilities can learn traditional Chinese martial arts whilst building confidence, fitness, and practical self-defence skills.
From complete beginners to experienced practitioners, working mothers to busy professionals, we offer comprehensive martial arts education that empowers women to feel strong, capable, and confident in all aspects of life.
Welcome to Reading's Premier Women's Martial Arts School
Why Choose Reading School Of Martial Arts?
Women-Centred Training Environment Our classes are designed specifically for women, taught by qualified female instructors who understand the unique needs, concerns, and goals that women bring to martial arts training. You'll train in a comfortable, supportive atmosphere free from judgement or intimidation.
Authentic Traditional Kung Fu We preserve genuine Chinese martial arts traditions whilst adapting them for modern women's needs. Our instructors maintain direct lineage to respected masters, ensuring you learn authentic techniques with practical applications for today's world.
Comprehensive Self-Defence Focus Every technique is taught with real-world application in mind. You'll learn not just traditional forms, but practical self-defence skills, situational awareness, and confidence-building strategies that enhance your personal safety.
Flexible Training Options We understand women's busy lives. Our programmes accommodate working schedules, family commitments, and personal preferences with flexible class times, multiple training formats, and supportive make-up policies.
Our Women's Training Programmes
Beginner Women's Kung Fu
Perfect introduction to martial arts for women
Designed specifically for women with no martial arts experience, this programme builds confidence whilst teaching fundamental skills in a supportive, encouraging environment.
What you'll learn:
- Essential kung fu stances and movements
- Basic self-defence techniques and escapes
- Breathing and meditation for stress management
- Body awareness and personal safety strategies
- Traditional forms adapted for practical application
Benefits you'll experience:
- Increased physical strength and flexibility
- Enhanced confidence in personal safety situations
- Stress reduction through mindful movement
- Supportive friendships with like-minded women
- Practical skills for everyday situations
Class details:
- Duration: 12-week foundation programme, then ongoing classes
- Schedule: Tuesday & Thursday 7:00-8:15 PM, Saturday 10:00-11:15 AM
- Class size: Maximum 10 students for personalised attention
Women's Self-Defence Intensive
Practical protection skills for real-world situations
Focused training that combines traditional kung fu techniques with modern self-defence strategies, specifically designed for the situations women are most likely to encounter.
Core curriculum:
- Situational awareness and threat assessment
- Escape techniques from common attack scenarios
- Pressure point applications for maximum effectiveness
- Verbal de-escalation and boundary setting
- Psychological confidence building
Training format:
- Monthly weekend workshops (first Saturday of each month)
- Weekly practice sessions (Wednesday evenings)
- Scenario-based training with realistic applications
- Guest experts in personal safety and women's security
What makes this different:
- Techniques optimised for women's anatomy and strength
- Focus on escape rather than prolonged confrontation
- Addresses women's specific vulnerability situations
- Includes digital safety and online threat awareness
Investment: £45 per workshop, £60/month for unlimited practice sessions
Women's Fitness Kung Fu
Martial arts training focused on health and wellness
High-energy classes that use traditional kung fu movements to provide comprehensive fitness training whilst teaching practical skills and stress management techniques.
Fitness benefits:
- Cardiovascular conditioning through dynamic movement
- Strength building using bodyweight and traditional exercises
- Flexibility improvement through forms and stretching
- Balance and coordination development
- Core strengthening for posture and back health
Mental wellness aspects:
- Stress management through moving meditation
- Confidence building through skill mastery
- Community support and encouragement
- Goal setting and personal achievement tracking
- Mindfulness practice through focused movement
Perfect for:
- Women seeking fitness without gym intimidation
- Busy professionals needing stress relief
- Anyone wanting to try martial arts in a supportive environment
- Those interested in mind-body wellness approaches
Schedule: Monday & Wednesday 6:00-7:00 PM, Saturday 11:30 AM-12:30 PM
Advanced Women's Training
For experienced female martial artists
Comprehensive training for women ready to take their skills to the next level, including advanced techniques, sparring, weapons training, and leadership development opportunities.
Advanced curriculum:
- Complex traditional forms and applications
- Controlled sparring with safety protocols
- Traditional weapons (staff, sword, fans)
- Teaching skills for potential instructors
- Competition preparation (optional)
Leadership opportunities:
- Assistant instructor training
- Mentoring newer students
- Workshop facilitation
- Community demonstration team
Requirements: 2+ years martial arts experience or instructor approval Schedule: Friday 7:00-8:30 PM, Sunday 2:00-3:30 PM
Private Women's Training
Personalised instruction for accelerated development
One-to-one training that addresses your specific goals, whether it's accelerated learning, specialised self-defence, fitness focus, or preparation for specific situations.
Benefits of private training:
- 100% personalised curriculum and pacing
- Complete privacy and discretion
- Flexible scheduling around your commitments
- Specialised training for specific goals
- 3-5x faster skill development than group classes
Popular private programmes:
- Executive women's training for busy professionals
- Post-trauma recovery training with trauma-informed approach
- Competition preparation for tournaments and demonstrations
- Accelerated beginner programmes for rapid skill development
- Specialised self-defence for specific situations or occupations
Investment: £80-£120/session depending on specialisation and instructor level
Meet Our Female Instructors
Sifu Maria Santos - Head Women's Instructor
18+ years martial arts experience, 12+ years teaching women
Qualifications:
- 4th Dan Black Belt in Traditional Kung Fu
- Certified Women's Self-Defence Instructor
- Personal Safety Consultant
- Trauma-Informed Teaching Certification
- First Aid and CPR Certified
Background: Former police self-defence trainer who specialises in women's martial arts and personal safety. Maria understands the unique challenges women face and creates training programmes that build both physical skills and psychological confidence.
Teaching Philosophy: "Every woman has inner strength waiting to be discovered. My role is to help her find it, develop it, and learn to access it when needed. Martial arts provides the perfect pathway for this transformation."
Instructor Sarah Chen - Fitness Kung Fu Specialist
15+ years experience, certified fitness instructor
Specialisations:
- Women's fitness and conditioning
- Stress management through martial arts
- Pregnancy and postnatal training adaptations
- Flexibility and mobility for women's health
Background: Combines traditional kung fu knowledge with modern fitness science to create programmes that address women's specific health and wellness needs throughout all life stages.
Instructor Emma Williams - Self-Defence Expert
12+ years experience, personal protection specialist
Expertise:
- Situational awareness training
- Escape and evasion techniques
- Psychological aspects of self-defence
- Workplace safety for women
Background: Former security professional who now focuses on teaching practical self-defence skills to women. Specialises in realistic scenario training and building confidence in potentially dangerous situations.
What Our Students Say
"Transformed My Confidence"
"I started training after a frightening experience walking home from work. I was anxious, unfit, and had never done anything like martial arts. Six months later, I feel completely different. I'm stronger, more confident, and I know I can handle myself if needed. The women in class have become like sisters to me." - Sarah M., 34, Marketing Manager
"Finally Found My Fitness Solution"
"I'd tried gyms, yoga, running - nothing stuck. Kung fu was different because it engaged my mind as well as my body. The women-only environment made me feel comfortable to learn without judgment. I've been training for two years and still look forward to every class." - Jennifer L., 41, Teacher
"Practical Skills That Work"
"The self-defence training here isn't just theory - it's practical skills that actually work in real situations. I've had to use what I learned twice now, and both times I was able to get away safely. The confidence this training gives you is invaluable." - Lisa R., 29, Nurse
"Strength I Never Knew I Had"
"At 45, I thought I was too old to start martial arts. The supportive environment here proved me wrong. Not only did I learn incredible skills, but I discovered physical and mental strength I never knew I possessed. It's been life-changing." - Emma K., 45, Business Owner
"Perfect for Busy Mums"
"As a working mum, I needed something that would fit my schedule and help with stress. The flexible class times and supportive community have been perfect. My children are proud of their 'kung fu mum' and I've never felt stronger or more confident." - Michelle T., 38, Mother of Three
Our Training Approach
Women-Centred Methodology
Physical Considerations
- Techniques adapted for women's anatomy and strength
- Training modifications for menstrual cycles and hormonal changes
- Injury prevention focused on women's specific risk factors
- Strength training that supports bone density and joint health
Psychological Approach
- Trauma-informed teaching methods
- Body-positive environment welcoming all shapes and sizes
- Focus on empowerment rather than fear-based training
- Celebration of individual progress and achievements
Social Environment
- Strong emphasis on mutual support and encouragement
- Opportunities for lasting friendships and mentorship
- Safe space to discuss women's safety concerns
- Community of women supporting each other's growth
Practical Self-Defence Focus
Real-World Scenarios
- Training based on situations women actually face
- Statistics-driven curriculum addressing common threats
- Escape and evasion rather than prolonged confrontation
- Verbal de-escalation and boundary setting techniques
Confidence Building
- Progressive skill development building on successes
- Scenario practice in controlled, safe environment
- Stress inoculation training for high-pressure situations
- Emphasis on awareness and prevention over reaction
Holistic Safety
- Physical techniques combined with situational awareness
- Digital safety and online threat recognition
- Workplace safety and harassment response protocols
- Home security and personal safety planning
Health and Wellness Benefits
Physical Health
- Cardiovascular fitness through dynamic training
- Strength building without intimidating gym environment
- Flexibility improvement for daily activities
- Balance and coordination for injury prevention
- Posture enhancement for desk workers
- Weight management through enjoyable activity
Mental Health
- Stress reduction through physical activity and meditation
- Confidence building through skill mastery
- Anxiety management through controlled challenge
- Depression support through community and achievement
- Sleep improvement from regular exercise and stress relief
- Focus enhancement through mindful practice
Emotional Wellbeing
- Empowerment through capability development
- Self-esteem improvement through achievement
- Boundary setting skills for all relationships
- Assertiveness training in safe environment
- Community connection with supportive women
- Personal identity beyond traditional roles
Facilities and Safety
Professional Training Environment
Women-Focused Facilities:
- Spacious training halls designed for comfort
- Private changing rooms and facilities
- Secure parking with good lighting
- Climate-controlled environment
- Professional equipment maintained to highest standards
Safety Protocols:
- Qualified female supervision in all classes
- First aid certified instructors
- Clear emergency procedures
- Equipment safety checks
- Incident reporting and follow-up systems
Accessibility and Inclusion
- Wheelchair accessible facilities
- Modifications for physical limitations
- Inclusive environment for all abilities
- Diverse community welcoming all backgrounds
- Flexible payment options for different budgets
Getting Started
Free Trial Week
Experience our training with no obligation. Join any of our women's classes during your first week to find the perfect programme for your goals.
What's included:
- Full participation in all women's classes
- Use of equipment and facilities
- Personal consultation with female instructors
- Programme recommendations based on your needs
- Supportive introduction to our community
New Student Process
Step 1: Initial Consultation (15 minutes, complimentary)
- Discussion of your goals and any concerns
- Assessment of experience level and fitness
- Explanation of programme options
- Facility tour with female instructor
Step 2: Trial Classes
- Participate in recommended classes
- Modified instruction for beginners
- Meet other students and instructors
- Experience our supportive community atmosphere
Step 3: Programme Selection
- Choose training path that suits your goals
- Flexible membership options
- Begin your empowerment journey with confidence
What to Bring
- Comfortable workout clothing (leggings, t-shirt)
- Water bottle and towel
- Open mind and willingness to learn
- Any questions or concerns you'd like to discuss
Class Schedules and Pricing
Weekly Class Schedule
Monday
- Women's Fitness Kung Fu: 6:00-7:00 PM
Tuesday
- Beginner Women's Kung Fu: 7:00-8:15 PM
Wednesday
- Women's Self-Defence Practice: 6:30-7:45 PM
- Women's Fitness Kung Fu: 6:00-7:00 PM
Thursday
- Beginner Women's Kung Fu: 7:00-8:15 PM
Friday
- Advanced Women's Training: 7:00-8:30 PM
Saturday
- Beginner Women's Kung Fu: 10:00-11:15 AM
- Women's Fitness Kung Fu: 11:30 AM-12:30 PM
Sunday
- Advanced Women's Training: 2:00-3:30 PM
- Private sessions available by appointment
Membership Investment
Monthly Unlimited: £85/month
- All women's classes included
- Equipment usage included
- Free trial week
- Access to women's community resources
Twice Weekly: £60/month
- Choose any 2 classes per week
- Perfect for busy schedules
- Switch classes with 24hr notice
Drop-in Rate: £18/class
- Try different classes
- No long-term commitment
- Cost applies toward membership
Self-Defence Workshops: £45/session
- Monthly intensive training
- Includes practice session access
- Materials and resources provided
Special Offers
New Student Special: First month £35 (60% off) Bring a Friend: Both receive 25% off first month Student/Senior Discount: 15% off monthly rates Single Parent Discount: 20% off with proof of eligibility
Frequently Asked Questions
"I'm completely out of shape. Can I start?"
Absolutely! Our classes accommodate all fitness levels. We start slowly and progress at your pace. Many of our most dedicated students began with minimal fitness and now enjoy excellent health and confidence.
"What if I've never done martial arts before?"
Perfect! Most of our students begin with no experience. Our beginner programmes are designed specifically for newcomers, with patient instruction and supportive classmates who understand exactly how you feel.
"How soon will I learn to defend myself?"
Basic awareness and simple techniques are taught from day one. Most students develop practical defensive capabilities within 3-6 months. However, the confidence you gain often provides immediate benefits in how you carry yourself.
"Are classes really women-only?"
Yes, our women-specific classes are taught by female instructors with only female students. This creates a comfortable, supportive environment where you can focus on learning without any self-consciousness.
"What if I have past trauma or anxiety?"
Our instructors are trained in trauma-informed teaching methods. We create a safe, supportive environment and can modify training to accommodate triggers or concerns. Many students find martial arts helpful for processing and overcoming past experiences.
"Can I train during pregnancy?"
Yes, with your doctor's approval. We modify techniques and intensity throughout pregnancy. Many women find martial arts beneficial for maintaining fitness, managing stress, and preparing for childbirth.
"How do you handle different fitness levels in class?"
Every technique can be adapted for different abilities. Instructors provide modifications and alternatives, ensuring everyone can participate meaningfully regardless of their starting point.
Contact and Location
Ready to Discover Your Strength?
Reading School Of Martial Arts, Saint Bart's Church, Reading, Berkshire RG1 3QA
Phone: 07511 967258
Email: sifu@readingschoolofmartialarts.co.uk
Getting Here
- By Car: Free secure parking available
- By Bus: Multiple routes stop nearby
- Safety: Well-lit access with security cameras
Opening Hours
Monday - Friday: 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Connect With Our Community
Women's Training Network
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/goldentiger208/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reading_hung_gar/
WhatsApp Group: For students.
Community Involvement
We actively participate in:
- Women's safety awareness events
- International Women's Day celebrations
- Charity fundraising for women's causes
- Corporate women's safety training programmes
- Local self-defence workshops and demonstrations
Our Commitment to You
Safe Learning Environment
- Professional, trauma-informed instruction
- Respectful, supportive atmosphere
- Clear policies on behaviour and boundaries
- Confidential discussion of personal concerns
- Flexible approaches to individual needs
Quality Training
- Authentic traditional techniques
- Practical real-world applications
- Qualified, experienced female instructors
- Small class sizes for individual attention
- Continuous instructor development and training
Ongoing Support
- Progress tracking and goal setting
- Home practice guidance
- Personal safety consultations
- Community events and social opportunities
- Pathways for continued development
Satisfaction Guarantee
If you're not completely satisfied with your training in the first month, we'll work with you to find the right programme or provide a full refund. Your success and comfort are our priorities.
Begin Your Empowerment Journey
Every woman deserves to feel safe, strong, and confident. At Reading School Of Martial Arts, we provide more than just martial arts training - we offer a pathway to personal empowerment, lasting friendships, and the knowledge that you can handle whatever life brings.
Whether you're seeking fitness, self-defence, stress relief, or personal growth, our supportive community of women and expert female instructors will guide you every step of the way.
Take the First Step Today
Book Your Free Trial Week
Your journey to greater strength, confidence, and empowerment starts with a single step. Take it today.
