Name: Self Defense for Every Body
Start: 2026-01-26T19:00:00-05:00
End: 2026-01-26T21:00:00-05:00
Location: The Women's Center

Build confidence and learn key self-defense skills from an expert in this fun, supportive 2-hour workshop for all bodies.
About this Event

This 2-hour workshop offers essential self-defense training for anyone, regardless of age, size, or physical strength. The program teaches the value of power over strength -- how to use physics, physiology, and psychology instead of muscles to defend yourself. Techniques covered include (as time and appropriate location/equipment allows):

Basic strikes (kicks, knees, open-hand strikes)
Escapes from hand grabs
Defenses against attacks from behind (bear hugs, etc.)
Defenses against chokes
How to fall and get up quickly and safely

Participants practice together to build muscle memory and quick reflexes in a supportive and enjoyable environment.

About the Presenter

Denise Coursey is a 4th degree black belt, empowerment advocate, and founder of Okinawan Karate for Women. With over 20 years of experience, she has refined an approach to teaching practical self-defense that is accessible to women of all sizes, ages, and abilities. Having navigated male-dominated spaces both in martial arts and her former career in finance, Denise is committed to creating a supportive, inclusive environment where women of all backgrounds feel empowered to train.

PLEASE NOTE: WORKSHOP IS IN PERSON AT THE WOMENS CENTER IN VIENNA, VA

Refund, Cancellation, No Show & Re-Scheduling Policy:

Participants who register for the workshop and do not attend or cancel their registration less than 24 hours prior to the start of the program, will not receive a refund.

Refunds (not including the processing fee) will be issued with 24 hour cancellation notice after the program has completed. Please submit your refund request for the event to: [email protected]

Participants who are not able to attend and have contacted the Women’s Center 24 hours prior to the workshop can re-schedule for the same workshop on another day, up to 6 months after the initial workshop date.

Full refunds will be issued for any program cancelled by The Women’s Center. If the program is rescheduled, we will offer to transfer the cost to the new date in lieu of a refund.