Seven Star Women's Kung Fu
About
Seven Star Women's Kung Fu in Seattle offers a comprehensive martial arts experience through disciplines including MMA, kickboxing, and karate. The gym features an impressive roster of highly credentialed female instructors led by Chief Instructor Allyson Riley, with retired Sigung Michelle McVadon teaching advanced classes. Instructors hold black belts in Kajukenbo, Aikido, and Seido Jiujitsu, bringing decades of combined expertise to both regular classes and specialized self-defense workshops. The facility also provides space available for rent for rehearsals and events, making it a versatile community resource.
reviewsWhat Members Say
Members consistently praise the empowering and confidence-building nature of the training, particularly in self-defense classes. They describe instructors as knowledgeable, encouraging, and skilled at working with all fitness levels in a safe, welcoming environment. Reviewers highlight how classes provide practical skills they feel confident applying in real-life situations, with many noting that even two-hour sessions feel engaging and enjoyable. Specific compliments include instructors being clear with directions, creating fun learning experiences, and helping students feel more assertive and capable.
rate_reviewGoogle Reviews (5)
Lillian Seidel
a year ago
Came in thinking a 2hr self-defense class would feel long, but it flew by. The instructors were knowledgeable and super encouraging. The class environment felt safe and welcoming, and I learned so much! A really empowering class. I definitely want to go back.
Sylvia Moffett
a year ago
Went to a self defense class with these wonderful trainers at my local library. The trainers were super encouraging and definitely were able to work with all levels of fitness in my group. I’ve been to other self defense classes and I’d definitely say I felt more confident in my ability to actually use what I learned in class from these instructors. Definitely recommend them. 10 stars if I could
Kelly Harris
a year ago
I feel so confident, empowered and assertive after taking the self defense class! We went over many scenarios and how to use your body to get out of them. The Instructors were clear and gave excellent direction, I felt safe the entire time! It was a lot of fun!
Simon K
a year ago
A group of friends and family had a two-hour self-defense class at Seven Star and it was great! We learned so much, and gained a lot of confidence and new skills. Also, it was really fun! The instructors were especially wonderful. I highly recommend Seven Star!
Althea Guanzon
a year ago
Thrilling self-defense class! Came out feeling empowered and confident! You get a lot out of a 2 hour session and the instructors were all friendly, encouraging and knowledgable. There is a lot of both physical and verbal practice like you would do in a real life situation.
fitness_centerAmenities
paymentsMembership
$150 for 4-week Beginner's Cycle (with reduced rate/scholarship options)
Contact
525 21st Ave, Seattle, WA 98122, USA
scheduleHours
Monday: 6:30 – 8:00 PM
Tuesday: 6:00 – 9:00 PM
Wednesday: 6:30 – 8:00 PM
Thursday: 6:00 – 9:00 PM
Friday: Closed
Saturday: 9:30 AM – 1:00 PM
Sunday: Closed
groupCoaches & Instructors
Michelle McVadon
Sigung (Retired Co-Chief Instructor, teaches advanced classes)
7th degree black belt in Kajukenbo, 3rd degree black belt in Aikido, black belt in Seido Jiujitsu
Started training in 1983. Promoted to 7th degree by Grand Master Barbara Bones. Built the school's self-defense program.
Allyson Riley
Chief Instructor
6th degree black belt in Kajukenbo
Training since 1992. Co-Chief Instructor since 2015. Teaches self-defense and Kajukenbo with compassion, humor, and ferocity.
Gina Mares Kurtz
Assistant Head Instructor, Executive Director, Active Sifu
4th degree black belt in Kajukenbo
Training since 2004. Runs the self-defense program. Also trains in 18 Hands of Luohan and Filipino Martial Arts.
Esther Howard
Instructor
4th degree black belt in Kajukenbo
Teaching since 1995. Former board president of the Pacific Association of Women Martial Artists (PAWMA).
Dawn Monet
Instructor
Black belt in Kajukenbo
Studying Kajukenbo since 2001. Focuses on body mechanics, alignment, and injury prevention/recovery. Certified movement instructor.
Judith Pile
Instructor
Black belt in Kajukenbo
Training since 2009. Focuses on helping students develop skills and the knowledge that they are worth defending.
Tyler LePard
Instructor
2nd degree black belt in Kajukenbo
Training since 2011. Loves sharing the joy of training. Background in dance, ultimate frisbee, boxing, and Tai Chi.
Shana Reiss de Reyes
Instructor
Black belt in Kajukenbo
Training since 2011. Enjoys exploring weapons and the mechanics of movement and impact.
Bonnie Loshbaugh
Instructor
Black belt in Kajukenbo
Training since 2008, teaching since 2015. Enjoys piecing together different aspects of the art with serious workouts.
Allison Maine Israel
Instructor
Black belt in Kajukenbo, 2nd degree black belt in Aikido
Training at Seven Star since 2008. Loves teaching rolling, ukemi (partnering), and sparring.