SAFE: Women’s Self-Defense

SAFE: Self-Defense For Women, By Women

Proof of vaccination is required to attend in-person classes. ​

Embrace The Freedom To Go Anywhere, Even Alone Or At Night, With Confidence

We currently offer 2 versions of our public SAFE: Women’s Self-Defense Course.

SAFE Women’s Self-Defense (Full Hybrid Course)

Unleash the superhero within you.

Learn the dynamics of gendered violence, practice interpersonal skills and discover your power to physically fight back in a safe, and empowering environment. We welcome all those who identify as women and girls (14+), including LGBTQ+ folks. No previous experience required.

This hybrid course combines 8 hours of in-person classes with online pre-recorded content and readings.* 2 hour class, meeting once a week for 4 consecutive weeks.

Class 1:
Introduction to Self-Defense | Stance, Yelling, Striking, Targeting

Class 2:
Boundaries, Assertiveness and Sexual Violence | Defenses Against Frontal Attacks

Class 3:
Relationship Violence | Defenses Against Rear Attacks

Class 4:
Robbery, Travel & Stalking | Defenses Against Ground Attacks

*Complete Online SAFE Women’s Self-Defense Course included. Access info will be emailed after registration. Students are encouraged to spend over an hour per week reviewing the materials before each class.

Proof of COVID vaccination required for in-person classes
(8-Hours In-Person: Includes Complete Online Course)

2-Week Session | $299*

Sundays 10am-2pm | July 28 & August 4 (accelerated format; includes lunch break)​​​

*Get $50 off, free hand-wraps and 2 extra weeks of membership if you sign up by 7/21/24 with promo code: JUL24SAFE (Promo available through website only, not Mindbody app.)

4-Week Session | $299*

Tuesdays 6-8pm | May 7 – May 28

*Get $50 off, free hand-wraps and 2 extra weeks of membership if you sign up by 4/30/24 with promo code: MAY24SAFE (Promo available through website only, not Mindbody app.)

Current Underground Self-Defense student or SAFE alum? You can get an *additional* 25% off (even on top of early registration) by registering directly with us in the office. This discount also applies to each additional SAFE purchase in the same sale (regular price for the first spot, 25% off each additional spot). Email us at info@undergroundselfdefense.coop.

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What Makes SAFE Different From Other Programs

  • Hybrid program. Our online course includes lifetime support, so you can refresh your learning & skills any time.
  • Current, research-based information on the realities of violence against women. This is not about fear-mongering or imagining scenarios—our curriculum is grounded in facts.
  • Trained male practice attackers. We know that although most men don’t commit violence, most violence is committed by men. Our male practice attackers are trained to give realistic feedback, increasing students’ confidence in their abilities.
  • Female black belt instructor. Master Murphy’s curriculum includes simple, effective techniques accessible to women with no martial arts experience. Our instructors have years of martial arts training, but you don’t have to!
  • Options for continued practice. SAFE is an introductory workshop. To further develop your self-defense skills, we recommend Shaolin Kempo Karate. Just like hitting things? Try Kickboxing!​

I just walked home tonight with the most confidence I’ve had in a long time. That self defense class went way beyond physical for me. I’m a naturally nice and sweet girl and when our instructor was talking about people targeting victims, I can think of so many times that that has been me. Thankfully I put myself in positions most of the time where I have a big strong brother or someone else to protect me, and I’ve been pretty unharmed. However this class taught me so much about how it’s not only right, but okay to stand up for myself. It’s okay to say no and it’s not just being paranoid. People can be a******s and I need to be the one that makes sure they aren’t a******s to me. I had small expectations for this class, but now I’m recommending it to everyone! … It was honestly amazing and will change this summer for me!

I took a self defense class with Underground and it was perfect. I learned about ways you can intervene before an attack and lots of great physical and verbal interventions you can do to ward off an attacker and they even had real male “attackers” so you got great practice trying the interventions. Great class. Highly recommended!

I took the woman’s self defense class here, what a great and informative experience! The staff are wonderful, very knowledgeable and kind. The facility has an empowering and welcoming atmosphere. I would recommend Underground to anyone!

I’ve always been hesitant to take a self defense class. I was worried about getting an instructor who perpetuated rape culture while attempting to be helpful. Ali, who led the self defense class I took at Underground, was exactly the opposite. She was extremely knowledgeable, very aware of the myths around sexual assault and careful to avoid them, and also very sensitive to the needs and experiences of her students. She did a wonderful job of making sure that all of us were comfortable, even though the experience of physically defending ourselves against the male assistants (also really terrific instructors) could have been very daunting. All in all, it was a very empowering and educational experience. The opportunity to practice physical aggression was kind of a revelation! I left the class feeling reminded of the fact that yes, I have the ability physically fight back if necessary (how did I forget this?) but with the knowledge and skills to really make a hit count if I need it to. I feel more confident being on my own than I did before. Can’t recommend enough!

We agree that knowledge is power, right?

Book a free support call to discuss your needs and discover the best empowerment training for you.

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