Our next round of 'Personal Security for Women' or PSW kicks off in April. The class draws strategies from a variety of martial arts designed to enable women to deal with serious threats effectively. This includes stance and footwork, defensive positioning, effective blocking and striking, and escapes from common holds and restraints. This is an excellent program for women of all ages, including those heading off to college or entering the workforce.
The PSW class is taught for women and by women. Head Instructor Connie Flynn of ZenQuest brings over 30 years of experience in various martial arts and self-defense training including: Uechi-Ryu Karate, Brazilian Jiu-jitsu, and Thai Kickboxing.
The class will be held on Tuesdays at 5PM starting on April 7, 2026. The duration of the class is 45 minutes and will run for 12 weeks, wrapping up on June 23, 2026. Participants should wear regular athletic clothing like a t-shirt or  ‘Under Armor’ style shirt, shorts, leggings, or sweats. A pair of kickboxing or boxing gloves are also required for the class. 
Participants will have a variety of choices to join in including our 'start-up' special for new students. At $249, it provides three months of unlimited classes and the gloves required for the class (or other equipment.) Currently enrolled students may participate in the PSW class at no additional cost. For more information or to reserve a spot in the next PSW session call us at 413-637-0656 or email at [email protected].

ZenQuest is happy to announce another amazing seminar with Kru Mark DellaGrotte of Sityodtong Muay Thai! Kru Mark will provide a two hour seminar beginning at 12:00 Noon on Saturday, May 2nd. 
Kru Mark is widely known as one of the top Muay Thai coaches in the country. His knowledge of this amazing art is only surpassed by his ability to communicate and help others improve their game. This is open to all levels of experience and our newest students are encouraged to attend.
For several years now Kru has worked for the UFC or Ultimate Fighting Championships. His job there is to provide technical support to the commentators about the techniques and strategies taking place in real time as the bouts play out.  Essentially, whenever you watch an event located in north America, you are hearing some of his input from the announcers. Between his schedule with the UFC, running his gym, and providing seminars like this one, these opportunities have become more rare so take advantage when you can.     
Pre-registration for this event is $100, with the full price of $120 at the door. Bring your gloves and shin guards, and a water bottle and towel are also recommended. Space will be limited, so secure your spot now!

Most martial arts use a system of colored belts, armbands, or uniforms to recognize progress and experience gained over time. These usually begin with lighter colors, such as white, and move toward darker shades as students advance. This “light to dark” tradition reflects growth through dedication and consistent effort.
Rank systems create structure in the dojo. They help everyone understand who has more experience in their chosen art. This makes training more effective because students know who to seek out for guidance and technical details. Rank also establishes leadership, standards, and accountability within the school.
However, there is something important many people overlook: 

We had an incredible seminar with Demian Maia on Saturday, February 28. The UFC veteran and former world champion covered a series of strategies working from the bottom to improve position and set up submissions using the 'Shoulder Crunch'. This is where an opponent’s arm is trapped at the shoulder in a way that is very difficult to escape. From there the ‘cruncher’ can execute different sweeps and apply a variety of shoulder and arm locks.
The three-hour clinic was half with the Gi or uniform and half in ‘No-Gi’ mode. About 40 students, almost all from ZenQuest, said they had a blast and learned a lot. After the Gi portion of the seminar Demian promoted Professors Daniel Perez of Miami and Mark Flynn of ZenQuest to 3rd Degree Black Belt.
Since retiring from the mat and in the cage, Demian now focuses on his affiliate academies, travels the world providing seminars, and coaches high level fighters like Charles ‘Do Bronx’ Oliveira. He also commentates for UFC Brazil and recently filmed a documentary about the history of the Martial Arts for Brazilian TV. 
Thanks to Professor Demian for an amazing experience and to everyone who attended. Congratulations to Professors Danny and Mark!!