Training can be as simple as a few sessions for exposure and familiarity, or it can become a structured practice over time. You might work through four or eight weeks of training, or follow a complete curriculum designed for deeper skill development, increasing physical challenge, and a final assessment.

There’s no single right way to train. We’ll build the experience around what you want to learn and how far you want to take it.

Hey, I’m Ellie. I made a commitment to learn self-defense during one of the most vulnerable points of my life when I didn’t have the skills I needed to protect myself. That journey grew into a desire to help other women build practical skills alongside strength, confidence, and physical capacity. I’m Women Empowered & Combatives trained. And I’d love to help you start or continue learning— for fun, fitness, or to gain a full set of responses to the top threats women face. Wherever you’re starting from, I’m excited to train with you!

PREFER TO TRAIN WITH A GROUP?

The Women’s Strength Collective combines fitness, practical self-defense, and community in a weekly group setting. You can drop in, train at your own level, and build familiarity with the skills over time.

Who are private lessons for?

Private lessons are for girls and women ages 12 and up. Training is adapted to your goals, experience, and physical abilities. Whether you’re just getting started or want to continue developing skills, we’ll work at your pace.

Do I need any self-defense experience?

No previous experience is necessary. We introduce skills progressively, giving you time to learn, ask questions, practice, and build familiarity.

What will we practice?

Depending on your goals and the session, we may work through situations involving approach and intrusion, grabs, chokes, hair pulls, strikes, dominant positions, and dangerous objects or weapons. The goal isn’t to memorize a long list of techniques. It’s to build familiarity with movement, positioning, awareness, and practical responses through repeated practice.

Do I need to be strong or fit?

No. You don’t need to be a highly trained athlete. We adapt the training to your physical abilities and experience, and you can work at your own pace. The goal is to develop practical skills while building physical capacity along the way.

How many sessions should I plan to take?

That depends on what you want from the training. A few sessions can give you an introduction and some initial familiarity with basic skills. You can also choose a package of four or eight sessions, or work through a complete curriculum for deeper skill development, increasing physical challenge, and a final assessment. There’s no single right way to train. We’ll build the experience around what you want to learn and how far you want to take it.

Can I train with a friend, family member, or group?

Yes. Group training is available for two or more people and can be shaped around the people participating—from mother-daughter sessions and homeschool groups to teams, organizations, seminars, and longer curriculum-based lessons. Group sessions can range from 60 minutes to three hours. Inquire about group training.

What should I wear and bring?

Wear comfortable clothes you can move in that help protect your shoulders and knees from mat burn. Bring a water bottle.

What if I’ve experienced assault or other threatening situations?

You are welcome here, and you never need to share your story or explain your experience to participate. You’re in control of your participation. You can let your coach know what’s comfortable, ask to modify an exercise, take a break, or pause an activity. We can work together to make the training appropriate for you.

How do I get started?

You can book an individual session online and choose an available time. If you’re interested in a group session, use the group inquiry form. If you have questions about where to begin or which option might be right for you, reach out to us!