Adult Kickboxing
Learn stance, defence and punch-and-kick combinations with Chris Collymore. The published adult session is Friday 7:30–8:30 PM.
Explore Adult Kickboxing →Onyx Combat Academy · Northampton
Martial Arts for Women in Northampton
Explore adult Kickboxing, MMA and female-led Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Find a session that suits you, with clear answers before you step onto the mats.
First class free · no payment · no obligation
Choose the training, not a stereotype
You can start without martial-arts experience or a particular level of fitness. Choose by what you want to learn and the type of practice you enjoy. Women can join the academy’s adult programmes; female-led training is another route into the same training environment.
Female-led BJJ
Learn movement, positional control and grappling with Gee Hallacy. The timetable lists Wednesday 7:30–8:30 PM, No-Gi.
Meet Gee →MMA and grappling
Learn how striking, takedowns and ground positions connect, or focus on Submission Grappling. Ask which session fits your starting point.
Explore MMA →Meet Ghislaine “Gee” Hallacy
Gee is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu purple belt and Karate 4th Dan black belt. She leads female-led BJJ and continues to compete in No-Gi grappling and invitational matches. Her background supports patient explanation, positional understanding and controlled technical practice.
Read Gee’s coaching profile for her credentials and competition records, and the Final Kumite 6 match announcement for her 24 October 2026 superfight. For dedicated BJJ information, visit ZR Team Northampton.
Funded access
Free Wednesday no-gi for girls aged 11–17
The Wednesday 7:30–8:30 PM female-led no-gi session with Gee is funded and free for girls aged 11–17. Contact the team before the first visit to arrange attendance. Other sessions follow the usual paid membership or booking arrangements, apart from individually approved REORG-funded training.
Onyx is also a REORG-accredited BJJ provider for eligible former military personnel and emergency service workers. Read our community training story for the funding routes.
Ask about funded trainingQuestions before you start
Will I be the only woman there?
The academy has female-led BJJ and women train across combat sports, but attendance varies by session. We cannot guarantee who will attend a particular class. Ask the team about the session you are considering. Female-led describes the coaching; it does not make every Onyx class women-only.
What should I wear?
Clean, comfortable sports clothing, water and no jewellery. No-Gi training uses sportswear rather than a gi. Check the session’s equipment requirements with the coach before buying kit.
How physical is it?
Kickboxing involves movement, striking drills and conditioning. Grappling involves direct partner contact and positional practice. Tell the coach about your experience and concerns so they can explain the first session and suitable progression.
Is sparring compulsory?
You are not expected to spar or prove yourself on your first visit. Coaching starts with fundamentals and controlled drills. Discuss the format of later partner work with the coach before joining in.
Do I need to get fit first?
No. Start at a sustainable pace and build familiarity and fitness through training.
Can I train recreationally or work towards competition?
Both are valid. Competition is optional. If you later want to compete, discuss readiness and preparation with the coach. See the competition pathway.
What about Boxing or a class for my daughter?
The current Boxing class is for children; adult Boxing is interest-only. See the Boxing programme. For a child or teenager, ask the coach to confirm age suitability rather than assuming an adult session is appropriate.
Your next step
Visit Onyx at Unit E-7, KG House, Kingsfield Way, Northampton, NN5 7QS. Arrange your first visit before travelling so we can confirm the right session. See the current timetable and membership options.