In the heart of Greenfield, a unique initiative led by Vanessa Chakour is empowering women through boxing. This former professional boxer has introduced an all-women's class at Franklin County’s YMCA, focusing on skill development and self-defense. Participants, ranging from beginners to experienced athletes, praise the program for fostering camaraderie, boosting confidence, and offering physical rehabilitation benefits. Chakour's approach emphasizes non-contact training, with a focus on defensive techniques and personal growth.

Former professional boxer and current instructor Vanessa Chakour has taken her passion for boxing to Franklin County’s YMCA, where she leads an all-female class twice weekly. The sessions delve into foundational boxing skills such as footwork, balance, agility, cardio, reflexes, and partner drills. Designed for women of all levels, these classes cater not only to YMCA members but also to anyone interested in exploring boxing. Chakour, originally from Amherst and a longtime resident of New York City before relocating during the pandemic, firmly believes that every woman should know how to defend herself. Her students have formed a supportive community, valuing the absence of inappropriate comments often encountered in co-ed settings.

Participants report significant improvements in both physical and mental health. Scout Cuomo, who joined the class this summer, found it transformative, aiding in recovery from chronic pain due to a car accident while enhancing her self-confidence. Similarly, Nina Rossi appreciates the variety and challenge each session brings, making it a satisfying and engaging exercise. Chakour's journey into boxing began in the 1990s when she discovered her latent power through sparring with a professional boxer. This revelation led her to fight professionally until 2004, followed by a return from 2009 to 2014. Now, she channels her expertise into teaching, viewing it as a reintegration of her identity.

Beyond boxing, Chakour connects this activity with her broader work in outdoor education, leading workshops that merge boxing with foraging and natural medicine. She views boxing as a form of moving meditation, enhancing environmental awareness and tapping into innate instincts. For those intrigued, registration is available via the YMCA website, with sessions held Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7:50 a.m. and 9 a.m. Attendance for one monthly session costs $120, accommodating up to five participants per class. Chakour ensures a welcoming atmosphere, adapting instruction to each student's level without fostering competition.

This innovative program not only teaches valuable self-defense skills but also cultivates a strong sense of community among its participants. By emphasizing mental health benefits and creating a safe space for learning, Chakour’s classes provide a holistic approach to fitness and empowerment. Women of all backgrounds find themselves welcomed and supported, discovering newfound strength and confidence through the art of boxing.