Blog

A pair of olive green boxing gloves with Rival branding rests against a blue fabric background.

Coach Ari

I joined Kuma in 2024 and started coaching in 2026. I’ve always wanted to kickbox but didn’t have the opportunity until moving to Maine. I’ve been lifting for a while, so I was excited to find a gym that offers both strength training and kickboxing. Outside of the studio, I...

A woman with dark hair smiles and poses with white RIVAL boxing gloves in front of black punching bags.

Coach Bryana

I joined Kuma in February 2025. Working remotely, I wanted to get out of the house and improve my relationship with my body and exercise. I was nervous to walk through the doors, but I’m glad I did! I love being part of this supportive, body-neutral community, which celebrates all...

A smiling woman wearing black boxing gloves and a black t-shirt stands indoors, ready to box. Her hair is tied back and she is in a positive, upbeat mood.

Coach Ashley

I joined KUMA in June 2022, looking to ease back into fitness. Day one I was hooked. From the rush of putting on wraps and gloves to landing my first solid moves on the bag, I knew I’d found my happy place. Whether shaking off a long day or kickstarting...

A woman with brown hair and bangs, wearing a blue T-shirt, smiles at the camera inside a gym with colorful equipment and a blurred TV in the background.

Coach Molly

I’ve always struggled finding a workout I actually enjoy… until I was introduced to KUMA kickboxing! The energy, support, and effort of the coaches is felt immediately when you step through the front doors, and I am grateful for our community! Outside of coaching, I’m a mom, animal lover, tv...

Smiling person with bright blue hair, wearing a black FIGHT t-shirt, stands with arms crossed next to a punching bag. Their arms are tattooed and they wear a smartwatch.

Coach Kaz

I joined KUMA in July 2023, looking to add activity without the pressure of traditional “exercise”. I found much more- a community of incredible women who support one another. As a coach, I’ll empower others to feel strong and confident. Outside of KUMA, I’m a urologic care nurse. My go-to...

A smiling woman with short gray hair wears a blue shirt with a white logo on the left side. The background is blurred, highlighting her friendly expression.

Candice

I joined KUMA in April 2022 when my good friend, Shannon, asked me if I would consider doing Foundations with her. I was close to turning 50 and hadn’t focused on fitness in a long time. It was hard, but the KUMA vibe and community kept me coming back. I...

Woman with glasses smiling in a gym, standing in front of black punching bags.

Coach Jen

I joined KUMA in May 2023 as a way to get back into movement after a fibromyalgia diagnosis. I instantly loved the fun, energizing workouts—and quickly found myself drawn to the empowering, inclusive vibe. I’m passionate about KUMA’s mission and love being part of this community. Outside the studio, I...

Woman with glasses smiling in a gym, wearing a black shirt with a white logo.

Coach Sarah

It’s easy for a gym to say it’s a place like KUMA, but it’s much harder to actually be that place. KUMA is that place. After grad school and two big moves, I wanted to move my body in a way I’d enjoy—and I haven’t looked back since walking into...

Person with short hair and glasses wearing boxing gloves in a gym setting.

Coach Erin

Erin has been a member at KUMA since 2022 and joined the Coaching team in January 2025. She is excited to support members in finding joy, strength, and community through movement! Erin’s favorite moves in class are backfist and front kick superhero touches. In her space time, Erin loves to...

Person wearing red boxing gloves and smiling in a gym setting.

Coach Renee

I joined KUMA in June 2021, seeking a whole-body fitness experience in a group setting. What I found was inspiration, a supportive community, and an uplifting environment that has exceeded my expectations. I am now grateful for the opportunity to pay it forward and inspire other women to feel powerful....

Woman with boxing gloves smiling at the camera.

Coach Shannon

I stepped into KUMA in January 2022, seeking a fresh start and a challenge. The very first Foundations class captivated me, sparking a newfound confidence and empowerment. KUMA has become more than just a gym; it’s a source of inner strength. When not at the studio, I work at a...

Woman with purple hair smiling and wearing pink boxing gloves.

Coach Melissa

In August 2022, I discovered KUMA, marking the end of my cycle of exercise frustration. At KUMA, I feel empowered, not defeated. This experience transformed my self-view and body image, inspiring me to support other women as a coaching and foundations assistant since 2023, and now training as a coach....

Does this sound like your kind of gym?

Select your location to view programs, schedule, and membership options. We can’t wait to meet you!