Sifu Kristin Tanaka began training at Sera's Kajukenbo when the school first opened its doors in 1999. After graduating from high school, she moved to Oahu to study at the University of Hawaii - Manoa pursuing degrees in Japanese, music, and teaching.

While at the University, Sifu Kristin studied the Reyes method of Kajukenbo under the close instruction of 8th degree black belt Professor Donald Crummer. Under Professor Don, she attained her black belt in 2004 and her 3rd degree black belt in 2009.

In 2007, Sifu Kristin began training in Tae Kwon Do under Master Robert Farm, a student of Olympic Tae Kwon Do coach Master Dae Sung Lee.

Upon graduating from the University of Hawaii in 2009, Sifu Kristin returned to Maui and continued training under Sigung Trent Sera.