Weekly Women & Teen Self-Defense Classes

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!

✨NEW - Arise After Hours - You're welcome to join us after class for community connection and tea at Tree's Cafe (corner of Knight and Kingsway). This is optional.

• 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.

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 ☺️

This isn't just a fitness class. It's a skill-building journey, and we want you to build reflexes so that these skills actually stick.

Every 10 classes, you earn a milestone certificate celebrating your commitment to growth. Four milestones. Forty classes. One ongoing transformation.

• Level 1: Foundations Certificate — 10 classes
• Level 2: Rising Certificate — 20 classes
• Level 3: Confidence Certificate — 30 classes
• Level 4: Owning It Certificate — 40 classes → come to class free, for life

People who reach Level 4 have built reflexes, not just knowledge. We believe that deserves to be recognized.

• 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 — $35 + GST Try it out or come when you can. Perfect if Fridays are unpredictable.
• 5-Class Bundle — $150 + GST Build momentum over time. Use your classes whenever you're ready.
• 10-Class Cycle — $250 + GST Best value. Best results. Commit to the full cycle and build real reflexes. Includes your first milestone certificate at class 10. Limited to 6 spots per cycle — start your cycle any time.
• Buddy Deal (2 people): $55 (perfect for mother-daughter duos or friends)
• 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

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.

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

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