Blog
I’m Coach Stacy—the owner of KUMA and someone who’s spent years creating a space that feels nothing like a traditional gym. As a coach, business owner, and someone who’s seen the harm that fitness culture can cause, I care deeply about building a space that’s not just physically challenging—but also...
Strength isn’t just for athletes—it’s for every woman at every stage of life. Whether you’re in your 20s and just starting out, in your 40s juggling a career and family, or in your 60s and focused on mobility and independence, strength training is one of the most impactful things you...
What inspired you to join KUMA? I was looking for a way to get back to being active as regular gyms without classes don’t really work for me, and I saw an ad for the Westbrook location that said it was opening soon. It looked really interesting, so I took...
Mastering the Basics: 6 Essential Kickboxing Techniques for Beginners Are you ready to step into your first kickboxing fitness class but feeling a bit unsure about the moves? Don’t worry—Coach Stacy is here to guide you through the six foundational techniques you’ll use in almost every class. By focusing on...
As the new year begins, we’re surrounded by messages urging us to shrink, sculpt, or otherwise “fix” our bodies. At KUMA, we believe it’s time to rewrite that narrative. This year, let’s focus on building strength—in every sense of the word—while leaving body-shaming and diet culture behind. At KUMA, we...
What inspired you to join KUMA? Way back in the spring of 2019 a friend asked me to join her for a class. I am up for trying anything once so of course I said yes, and then I was immediately hooked! What keeps you coming back? All of it?!...
What inspired you to join KUMA? What keeps you coming back? What challenges have you faced in your fitness journey and how have you overcome them? What is your favorite workout or activity at KUMA and why? How has the community at KUMA influenced or supported you? What advice would...
If you’re just starting out in boxing, one of the first things you’ll learn is the guard position—the foundational stance that sets you up for both offense and defense. A strong guard isn’t just about looking tough; it’s about protecting yourself and maximizing the power of each punch you throw....
What inspired you to join KUMA? I was looking for something to get me moving! I have a sedentary job and felt like I needed to do something. I do not enjoy exercising at home and do not know my way around a gym, so my search for an exercise...
As the holiday season draws closer, so do all the expectations and emotions it brings. For many of us, the holidays are about connection, tradition, and joy. But they can also stir up pressures around body image, food, and social expectations. This year, we’re inviting you to step into the...
What inspired you to join KUMA? I was looking for a new sport after a bad injury prevented me from playing soccer. Coach Kiira invited me to a punch and brunch class in Saco and when Westbrook opened, I joined immediately! What keeps you coming back? I love the safe...
In this video, we dive into one of the most crucial elements of a powerful and safe punch—hand and wrist positioning. Whether you’re new to kickboxing or looking to fine-tune your technique, understanding how to align your hands and wrists will help you strike effectively and protect yourself from injury....