More and more women are participating in the martial arts, for reasons ranging from self-defense to physical fitness. Yet a large number of women who begin training become intimidated by the physical demands of the sport and quickly drop out, despite that almost anyone can acquire the strength, flexibility, and endurance necessary for this ancient art. Often this is because instructors are not sensitive to the particular needs of female athletes.Coaching Women in the Martial Arts reveals to instructors the concerns of female martial artists and how to help them get the most out of their training. Illustrated with more than 50 photos, its chapters tackle topics such as why women participate in the martial arts, attitudes they encounter in the training hall, how instructors can build a winning spirit in their female students, and becoming a female-friendly martial arts school. It also addresses women's special needs concerning self-defense, sparring, mastering techniques designed for men, injury prevention, and pregnancy.