Gassho.
Hi All,
I'm new to e-budo, though I have been an infrequent visitor in the past. My question is this; how does one convince a female student that, with good technique, they can be just as powerful and effective as a man?
I teach Shorinji Kempo at University College London and have been for about 2 years. Unlike most SK dojos in the UK, at least 50% of my students are female around 18 - 26 years old. They are all regular, keen, happy students, eager to learn and each (notwithstanding my aforementioned concern) making good progress.
I know from first hand experience that female students are more than capable of measuring up to men, but the difficulty I have, is getting my female students to believe it. Whatever approach I take by way of offering 'proof', despite the fact that they all seem to understand AND agree with me, I can't help feeling that at the back of their minds they're saying, "..yes, but I'm just a girl". They remain unconvinced and this is evident in their practice.
Does this ring bells with any of you? Do any of you have any practical suggestions (exercises, etc)? Am I just being impatient?
I know I'm not expecting too much and wouldn't want to suggest otherwise.
Thanks in advance.
George Hyde
UCL, ULU, SOAS Dojo
British Shorinji Kempo Federation