Underground Self-Defense

NEW! Weekly drop-in self-defense classes start September 3rd!

Drop in for a refresher or to start or deepen your self-defense practice.

This class uses the research-backed Empowerment Self-Defense (ESD) model which combines prevention skills with physical fighting skills.

Each class will include a combination of discussion-based learning and hands on skills practice including striking and escaping grabs/holds.

We will use a three-week rotation of focusing on defending against attacks from the front, from the back, and on the ground.

Self-Defense
Thursdays 6:15-7pm
Single class: $25

Included with all Underground Self-Defense class passes and memberships.

All genders and experience levels welcome. Ages 14+.

*THIS WEEK ONLY* Get your first class ✨free✨ ($25 value). Monday, Aug 24 - Saturday, Aug 29 for our fall open house! 🥳

Use promo code: FIRSTCLASS to purchase a single drop-in class of self-defense, kickboxing or martial arts.

Yes! We will be offering NEW weekly drop-in self-defense classes starting September 3rd, but you can make your purchase this week go try it for free.

Absolutely NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY. We know beginners often feel nervous to start, but you will find that creating a safe and welcoming environment is kind of our thing. And now you can try it for free. 😏 So when could be a better time to start?! 🤩

Just carry in a pair of athletic shoes that are clean on the bottoms, and if you want to try kickboxing come 20 minutes early to get set up with some hand wraps ($10). Otherwise, you can wear anything you're comfortable moving in! Seriously. It's not a fashion show. 😉

We can't wait to see you in class soon! 😁🎉🎉

This popular course fills fast!

If you think kickboxing looks cool but you’re nervous to start— this is the course for you.

Intro to Kickboxing
6-Week Beginner Course

Saturdays 1:15-2pm
September 19 - October 24
$149 (incl. hand wraps - $10 value)

We welcome beginners of all body types, ages (adult), experience and fitness levels. That’s right— you don’t even need experience with exercise!

Learn the essential skills of striking for fitness and self-defense, and have fun doing it! You’ll be amazed at how much you can learn in 6 short weeks.

If you love it and want more, we’ve got options for you. Or, if you feel satisfied and ready to move on, you’ll walk away with an expanded toolkit of practical self-defense skills.

Grab your spot now. We can’t wait to help you find the power in you. 💥

Start the fall semester feeling safer and more confident!

Empowerment self-defense is a research-backed model that combines physical fighting skills with violence prevention skills like situational awareness, boundary-setting and assertive communication.

You’ll be amazed at what you can do, and at how much fun you’ll have doing it!

4-Week Women's Self-Defense Course
Tuesdays 6-8pm
September 15 - October 6

Use code SEPT26SAFE by 9/8 to save $50 and receive additional gifts.

We can’t wait to help you find the power in you.

NEW! Curious about martial arts but don't know where to start? We've got you!

This 90-minute beginner workshop is a quick, fun introduction to the world of martial arts.

Tues, Sept 8th 6-7:30pm | $25

Learn about four ways of fighting:

🥋 Punching (and other hand strikes)

🥋 Kicking (and otherwise striking with legs)

🥋 Grappling (holding or locking joints for control or breaking) and

🥋 Felling (breaking opponent's balance to take them to the ground).

Learn about five kung fu animals:
Tiger, leopard, crane, snake and dragon.

Learn how to have high standards for safety and mutual respect in a martial arts setting, and how to recognize red flags.

Learn how to identify key differences between different styles of martial arts, and understand the pros and cons of various approaches.

Learn the essential strategies and mindset for how to stick with a practice long enough to move from beginner to intermediate or advanced.

This workshop is perfect for you if:

🥋 You're just curious.

🥋 You're interested in martial arts but you don't know where to start.

🥋 You did martial arts as a kid but don't know how to re-start as an adult.

🥋 You've tried martial arts before but have not found a good fit.

Space is limited so be sure to register in advance! We can't wait to introduce you to the world of martial arts. You're going to love it!! 🎉

Book your free trial class today!

Kung Fu Kritters is a fun, developmentally appropriate early martial arts program for young children ages 4-7. Kid build gross motor skills and self-regulation skills in a playful, imaginative environment.

New students can start at any time!

Only 5 spots left! Register by 7/19 with code JUL26SAFE for $50 off.

We've been nominated for Madison Magazine's Best of Madison again! Please take a moment to vote for us by the end of June to show your support.

https://madisonmagazine.secondstreetapp.com/Best-of-Madison-2026/

People living in Dane County and bordering counties are eligible to vote. Select "Healthy Living" then scroll to "Martial Arts Studio" and vote for "Underground Self-Defense". If it's your first time voting, make sure to verify your email so you know your vote counted!

Thanks, friends 🧡