Self Defense Built for Real Women
You don't have to spend years training, be an athlete, or have a martial arts background to learn how to protect yourself.
Our classes are designed for women of different ages, fitness levels, and starting points. From your first class, you’ll build on the natural power and instincts you already have — helping you feel stronger, more confident, and more capable in everyday life.
Choose Your Experience
Whether you’re learning for yourself, preparing a daughter, bringing women together, or looking to train regularly, there's a clear way to begin.
WHY LIFEFORCE
Training for Real-Life Situations
Real life is unpredictable, and situations can change or escalate quickly. That’s why we teach practical principles and adaptable skills, rather than fixed sequences of techniques to memorize.
We practice those skills in scenarios that women often navigate — parking lots, elevators, stairwells, walking alone, unwanted attention, and social pressure.
This training helps women respond more effectively when situations change, while reinforcing the awareness, boundaries, and decision-making that can help prevent a situation from becoming physical in the first place.
Simple, effective guidelines to respond confidently in the moment.
Reflex-Based
Physical skills that work with your natural reflexes, not complicated moves to memorize.
Real-World Scenarios
Practice in situations and environments women often navigate.
Adaptable Skills
Learn to adjust and respond as situations change.
Practical Principles
—Tina Dawn
Registered Nurse · Certified Self-Defense Instructor · Fifth-Degree Black Belt
Co-Founder, LifeForce Self Defense
WHY I TEACH THIS
"…it has the power to change — and even save — your life.
"My own experiences with stalking and other situations brought me to my first self-defense class about 17 years ago. I fell in love with it, and I love helping other women learn more of what they’re capable of.
We’re all born with survival instincts, but many of us aren't shown how to use them to better protect ourselves. A lot of it is simpler than people think — it just isn’t taught or talked about enough.
I know walking into a class can feel intimidating—but I promise, it's not about being fit or athletic. What we create here is supportive, engaging, and fun.
This training is for every woman, and it has the power to change—and even save—your life."
IN THEIR OWN WORDS
What Women Are Saying
“I’m former law enforcement and took this class as a refresher, bringing my mother with me. I would highly recommend it to everyone. The amount they were able to teach and demonstrate in only 90 minutes was incredible. I’m hoping to sign up for another class.”
—Samara H., NYC
“I was nervous to walk in—I thought I’d feel out of place. But everyone was so welcoming, and within minutes I felt completely comfortable. Honestly, it was way more fun and empowering than I ever expected.”
—Trish A., Ossining NY
“I signed up for the bootcamp with my daughter Abby, who had just turned 15. I wanted her to be more prepared as she became more independent. During those five weeks, I watched her become more aware, confident, and less anxious....I’ve slept better ever since. As a mom, that peace of mind is everything.”
—Ann B., Stamford CT
FREE College Prep Parent Guide
She’s Becoming More Independent.
You Want Her to Be Ready.
This free guide covers tips, strategies, questions, and conversations worth talking through as your daughter steps into college, work, travel, and greater independence.
Not Sure Where to Start?
Tell us a little about what you’re looking for, and we’ll help you find the training option that makes the most sense for you, your daughter, or your group.
Where We Train
Regularly in Nyack • Sloatsburg • White Plains • Kingston.
Also serving communities across Rockland, Westchester, the Hudson Valley, and nearby Northern New Jersey.