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The kickboxing club that is a ‘sacred space’
A kickboxing club in Bristol has become a “sacred space” for women and non-binary people after an instructor became frustrated at the sport being male-dominated.
Ash Guest, who is based in Lockleaze, started kickboxing when she was 17 – often going to studios where she was surrounded by men.
Since then, the 27-year-old has competed across the world, as well as embarking on a law PhD and training to become a solicitor.
is needed now More than ever
Meanwhile, she has founded Athena Combat Club, a kickboxing club aimed at those underrepresented in the sport – instilling wellbeing, fitness and a sense of community in those that attend.
Ash has trained in K1 kickboxing, muay thai and boxing for just under 10 years – photo: Betty Woolerton
“I was noticing that wherever I’ve trained, whether it’s in the UK or elsewhere, that these spaces can be male-dominated which can be really intimidating,” Ash told Bristol24/7.
She added: “I wanted to counter that and create a space where people feel safe.”
A former Redland High School and Bristol Grammar School pupil, Ash now runs two sessions a week from Jump Studio in Old Market – open to anyone who identifies as a woman or non-binary.
She continued: “Some people come at the sport from a competing lens where they want to fight, but I think that’s where a lot of gyms get it wrong as they assume that’s why everyone joins.
“It can be quite off-putting because some just want to learn something, keep fit and make new friends.”
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Aiming to inspire women who have not previously considered combat sports, Ash said: “That’s what is really good about it, particularly with our group, where where we have women and non-binary people.
“It’s obviously a big generalisation but I think, generally, if you’re not a cisgender man, you’re not taught to be aggressive from birth – you’re taught to make yourself small.”
“Then throughout the weeks, I see people progress not only in terms of technique and fitness, but also in confidence – which is really freeing. One woman called it ‘a sacred space’.
“It can be pretty cathartic too, hitting things as hard as you can.”
My heart is full reading the lovely reviews for Athena Combat Club ? So proud of the space we’ve created. If you haven’t been down already come check us out ?https://t.co/6XXXholaY3 pic.twitter.com/IQIVx5WKB1
— Ash Guest (@ashguestlaw) August 11, 2022
Part of the combat club is Louise, who called the club “a space where you are safe, respected and supported”.
Kickboxing traditionally includes a blend of boxing and karate based on kicking and punching, spanning styles from savate to Japanese kickboxing. Athena Combat Club focuses on K1 kickboxing and muay thai techniques, for beginners to seasoned fighters.
Sessions run on Wednesdays and Saturdays and cost £8, or £6 for those on a low income.
Main photo: Ash Guest
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