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Feel stronger,
safer,
and more empowered.

Practical self-defense for women and teens, built for real life.
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Self-Defense
for Every Woman

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You don’t need years of training or a particular fitness level to learn to protect yourself.

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Whether you’re a student, a busy mom, a working professional, or retired, you have the power to protect yourself.

 

Come learn what matters, what works, and how to apply it in real life.

Self-Defense
for Real Life

Real-world situations aren't choreographed. We teach simple, effective principles that work across a wide range of real-life scenarios. No fancy maneuvers, no complicated steps, just practical skills you can actually use.

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You’ll train for situations women often encounter, like:

• parking lots

• elevators

• stairwells

• uncomfortable or intimidating encounters

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The goal is to feel more prepared and able to say: 

“I can handle myself if I need to.”

Practical Principles

Simple, effective guidelines to respond with clarity in the moment.

Instinct-Based

Physical skills that work with your natural instincts and reflexes.

Real Scenarios

Practice in situations and environments women often navigate.

Adaptable To You

Learn to protect yourself in ways that work with your body, your abilities, and your life

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What You'll Take With You

✔ Recognize Warning Signs

Notice red flags, and take opportunities to leave before things escalate.

✔ Put Your Safety First

Use your voice, set clear boundaries, and give yourself permission to say no—even when it feels uncomfortable or impolite.

✔ Know How to Protect Yourself

Learn simple, powerful physical skills built on your natural instincts, with the goal of getting to safety.

✔ Practice for Real Life

Put your skills into action through hands-on exercises and realistic scenarios, with guidance and support.

✔ Feel More Prepared to Act

Practice responding when caught off guard, giving yourself more options when you need to act.

✔ Discover What You’re Capable Of

Experience your own strength—and take that confidence with you beyond the class.

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Private &
Group Training

Personalized, hands-on self-defense for women, mothers and daughters, friends, and small groups—at one of our locations or yours.

Choose Your Class

Train on your own, bring someone you care about, join a class, or bring self-defense to your community.
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CollegeStrong™

A focused self-defense experience for teen and young adult women preparing for college, work, travel, and greater independence.

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Upcoming Classes & Events

Build confidence and skills through beginner-friendly classes and events throughout the Hudson Valley.

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Community & Organization Programs

Specialized self-defense programs for communities, teams, and organizations.

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Tina Dawn

Registered nurse · Certified self-defense instructor · Fifth-degree black Belt

Co-founder, LifeForce Self Defense

a note from the instructor

Tina Dawn

My own experiences with stalking and other situations brought me to my first self-defense class about 17 years ago. It changed my life, and I love helping other women feel that strength for themselves.

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I know walking into a class can feel intimidating. That’s why we created LifeForce—a welcoming place where women can learn practical skills, have fun, and feel empowered alongside other women.

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This training is for every woman, and it has the power to change, and even save, your life.

Registered nurse
Certified self-defense instructor
Fifth-degree blackbelt
Co-founder, LifeForce Self Defense
 
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 PARENT GUIDE

Before She Leaves: The College Strong Parent Guide

Facts, tips, and conversation starters to help your daughter step into greater independence with more confidence.

A Step Worth Taking

Every woman deserves to know how to protect herself—and feel the confidence and peace of mind that come with it.

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Whether you’re looking for a class for yourself, a private session, or a program for your group, we’ll help you find the right next step.

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

Nyack • Sloatsburg • White Plains • Kingston

 

Serving communities across Rockland, Westchester, the Hudson Valley, and nearby Northern New Jersey.

Send a Quick Message
What are you interested in?
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