Breaking barriers and boards - a woman’s place in the dojo
Stepping into the dojo as a woman means more than showing up. It means redefining what strength and presence look like in a traditionally male space. Behind every board broken, every block held, and every kata/hyung practised, women are reshaping the narrative of martial arts.
When I first stood barefoot at the edge of the mats, most of the people there were men. Part of me felt excited, but a larger part of me felt unsure about whether I belonged. I wasn’t strong or quick, and I absolutely lacked confidence. I was a mum in her late 30s entering a space traditionally filled by men, with a long history, discipline, and intensity.
Yet, I had no idea how much those introductory classes and all the ones that followed would change my life.
The quiet strength of women in the dojang
It’s clear we often have less muscle mass and strength, and are underestimated because of our size. I came to realise martial arts isn’t about pure strength. It’s about technique, balance, timing, and control. I’ve seen women half the size of their opponents dominate through skill, grit, and agility.
We might not always be the loudest in the room, but our presence is strong. Every time a woman steps onto the mat, she challenges outdated ideas about who martial arts are for.
Building a sisterhood in a male-dominated space
One of the most inspiring parts of my journey has been connecting with other women on the same path, both in Aotearoa New Zealand and overseas. There is something exciting and fierce about training and competing alongside other women.
We support each other without ego. We understand what it’s like to juggle everything - work, family, hormones, healing, life. And still choose to get on the mat. Sometimes we arrive tired, sore or anxious. Sometimes we feel like impostors. But we train anyway. That’s what makes us powerful.
Confidence in our gear
Our confidence doesn’t just come from within; it also depends on what we wear and how we prepare. A well-fitting dobok can make all the difference. For women, our uniforms need to fit our shape and curves comfortably. I’ve found that with most uniforms, I had to go up a size to accommodate my curves. Rhiannon, who manages orders at Complete Martial Arts Supplies, has consistently ensured a proper fit.
Good gear isn’t optional. It’s vital. Especially as a woman. Chest guards, headgear, and gloves that fit properly make it safe for us to compete without worrying about things slipping, falling off, or causing injury. Talking to others and the team at Complete Martial Arts Supplies made it easier to find a kit that suited my needs.
Knowing the care the CMAS team took, when it came time to grade to 1st Dan, I knew exactly where to go. Complete Martial Arts Supplies offers a professional embroidery service. They were able to put my name, Dan rank, and my art on my belt - embroidered in gold - clean, precise, and beautifully done.
Female representation matters
Seeing female instructors, masters, and competitors at the highest levels matters. They show us what’s possible. However, it also starts local - encouraging girls to try their first class, supporting women who join or return to martial arts after motherhood, or creating space for female voices in leadership. Equally important is having men who recognise that this is a multi-gender art form and then encourage it accordingly.
All of these leave a lasting impression. I was blessed to receive a demonstration sword as a gift from one of my female students. However, the true gift has been witnessing her growth, her participation in local and international competitions, her ongoing dedication to training, and now being alongside her as she teaches the next generation.
If you’re a woman thinking about martial arts: come as you are. You don’t need to be fit, flexible, or fearless.
All you need is the willingness to start.
Because on the mats, we don’t just train.
We transform.
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Jaime is a 2nd Dan black belt in Hapkido, with a passion for sharing the art with others. Her journey has taken her to South Korea, where she competed on the international stage - bringing home medals in three different divisions. These experiences, among others, have shaped the way she teaches today, with a strong focus on helping children and beginner adults build confidence, discipline, and technique from the ground up.