About this Event
Join us on Tuesday nights at Vancouver Mind Body Centre and/or Friday nights at Flow Martial Arts for empowering self-defense classes designed for women, teens, and non-binary people (ages 13+) in a female-centred, beginner-friendly space.
The same 10-week cycle at both locations, so you can come to whichever night works for your week.
Each class blends Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu based 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! We've had ages 13-63 join us.
✨NEW - Friday 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.
What to Expect
- Assertive communication, situational awareness, and boundary-setting
- Mindfulness, movement, and group discussion
- Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu–based self-defense techniques
- 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 you 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 self-care routine ☺️
The Journey & The Recognition
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 recognizing and honouring your commitment to growth. Four milestones, forty classes, and 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 it deserves to be recognized.
Class Info
- Tuesdays: 7:30-8:45 at #170-809 West 41st, Vancouver, BC
- Fridays: 6:30–7:45 PM at 1355 Kingsway, Vancouver, BC
- PLEASE NOTE THE TWO LOCATIONS
- 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
Pricing
- INTRO 3-Class Trial — $65 +GST For newcomers only. 3 classes within 1 month, see what you think!
- Drop-In — $35 + GST Try it out or come when you can. Perfect if Fridays are unpredictable.
- 10-Class Cycle — $290 + GST Commit to a full cycle and begin building those reflexes. Includes your first milestone certificate at class 10. Can be renewed.
- Buddy Deal (2 people): $60 (perfect for mother-daughter duos or friends)
- Transformation Package: $800 for the whole program, one year of training + a 30min 1:1 private coaching call
- Monthly Memberships: Available upon request, see our website
- E-transfer available: Email [email protected] to avoid the fees
- Use code FIRSTCLASS at checkout to get 25% off your first drop-in class!
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 20 years of experience teaching and 10 years of 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
Event venue & nearby stays
Flow Martial Arts, Kingsway, Vancouver, BC, Canada
Concerts, fests, parties, meetups — all the happenings, one place.