Weekly Women & Teen Self-Defense Classes

Discover your strength. Build confidence. Learn empowerment-based self-defense in a supportive, beginner-friendly space.

Join us on Friday nights for empowering self-defense classes designed for women, teens, and non-binary people (ages 13+) comfortable in a female-centred space. Each class blends practical self-defense techniques with verbal and mindset strategies, movement, and community, because safety starts long before anything physical happens.

Come solo, bring a friend, or attend as a mother-daughter pair — all are welcome!

What to Expect

• Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu–based self-defense techniques
• Assertive communication, situational awareness, and boundary-setting
• Mindfulness, movement, and group discussion
• Classes address common threat scenarios using the Empowerment Self-Defense framework: Think. Yell. Run. Fight. Tell.
• Classes follow a 10-week cycle, so you’ll develop reflexes and build on what you learn over time, whether you come every week or drop in when it works for you.
• Each class is stand-alone, so you can start at any time in the cycle, and don't need experience.

Why Join?

These classes aren’t just about self-defense, they’re about standing tall, trusting your instincts, and walking through the world with confidence. Expect a welcoming community, practical skills, and a deeper connection with yourself and others. Plus, snacks!

Make us part of your new Friday night self-care routine ☺️

Class Info

• When: Fridays, 6:15–7:30 PM
• Where: Flow Martial Arts at 1355 Kingsway, Vancouver, BC
• Who: Women, teens, and non-binary/GNC people (ages 13+)
• What to Bring: Comfy clothes, water, and a willingness to step out of your comfort zone
• Waiver: Sent via email after registration, the waiver outlines associated risks

• Drop-in: $30
• Buddy Deal (2 people): $55 (perfect for mother-daughter duos or friends)
• 5-Class Package: $135 (no expiry) // 10-Class Package: $250 (no expiry)
• Special Offer: Use code FIRSTCLASS at checkout to get 25% off your first drop-in class!
• E-transfer available: Email [email protected] to avoid the fees
• Capacity: 16–20 participants

Instructor Bio

Jess Gordon is a BC-certified school teacher, Empowerment Self-Defense instructor, experienced BJJ practitioner and instructor, and the founder of Arise Self-Defense. With over 15 years of experience teaching and 9+ years training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Jess is passionate about helping people build confidence, set boundaries, and feel strong, inside and out.

Inclusivity & Accessibility

• GNC and LGBTQ2+ inclusive
• Modifications available for all bodies and abilities
• Trauma-informed and consent-based instruction
• No fitness or martial arts experience needed

Questions?

Email Jess at [email protected]

Follow us on Instagram: @ariseprograms

Join The Arise Self-Defense Club, our free online Facebook community: Join the Club Here

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