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Free Women's Self-Defense Classes

18 October 2025 – 13 June 2026
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Upcoming Dates

Past Dates

Location

Roosevelt Community Church

Selections

  • Number of women attending

Details

FREE Women's Self Defense Classes in Downtown Phoenix

Roosevelt Community Church has been hosting free jiu-jitsu self defense classes twice a month for more than 5 years. 500+ women have joined us so far, and all are welcome!

We provide a safe space for women and teen girls to learn an important life skill, make authentic community connections, and engage in meaningful discussions together.

Using the proven techniques of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, you’ll learn how a smaller person can more effectively defend against a larger, stronger opponent through leverage, technique, and timing rather than speed, strength or athleticism. We’ll focus on boundary setting, situational awareness, and practical self-defense skills in a fun, supportive, and collaborative environment.

This program is for women of all ages and every fitness level. (Ages 12 and up.) We can make accommodations for injuries or other limitations. If you’re unsure, please come observe a class. Friends welcome! Join at any time. No previous experience necessary for any class.

Kiara Howerzyl, a certified Gracie Jiu-Jitsu self-defense instructor, teaches key principles and self-defense techniques from the Women Empowered program through Gracie University. When she's not teaching at RCC, Kiara teaches and trains at Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Phoenix.

Rob Hedrick, a BJJ Black Belt, and Philip Timson, a BJJ Purple Belt, assist Kiara during classes.

**Seminar-style classes. Join at any time! No experience necessary for any class.**

Roosevelt Community Church:
https://rooseveltchurch.org/womens-self-defense