If you’re looking for the best self-defense training in Bethany or martial arts for women’s self-defense in Portland, you’re in the right place.
At Instinct Defense Academy, our Empower Her course is built specifically for women—no matter your age, size, fitness level, or experience. Whether you want to feel more confident walking alone, traveling, or simply living life on your terms, we’ll give you the skills and mindset to protect yourself in the real world.
This is not your average self-defense class. We don’t teach one-size-fits-all techniques—we bust the most dangerous myths that put women at risk and replace them with strategies that actually work.
3 Dangerous Myths We Bust in Empower Her Course
Myth #1: “I’m too small or out of shape to defend myself.”
TRUTH: Self-defense is not about size or strength—it’s about knowing what to do and when to do it. In Empower Her, we teach you how to use your voice, body position, leverage, and situational awareness to get out of danger fast. You don’t need to be in peak shape—you just need the right tools and mindset, and we’ll give you both.
Myth #2: “Just comply and you’ll be safe.”
TRUTH: Compliance doesn’t guarantee safety. In fact, predators often count on compliance to maintain control. Our training helps you recognize red flags early, stay mentally prepared, and make fast, decisive choices when things feel wrong—before a situation escalates. We’ll help you build the confidence to trust your instincts and take action when it matters most.
Myth #3: “Just fight back.”
TRUTH: A 120 lb woman trying to “fight” a 200 lb attacker in a head-on brawl doesn’t stand a chance—and shouldn’t try. That’s why we teach you how to outsmart and outmaneuver, not outmuscle. You’ll learn how to use strategy, timing, and targeted strikes to create injury and hesitation—giving you a chance to escape.
It’s not about fighting hard—it’s about fighting smart.

What You’ll Learn in Empower Her
- How to assess threats and trust your instincts
- Verbal and physical boundary-setting
- Evasion tactics and escape techniques
- Targeting weak points for maximum effectiveness
- Defensive strategies for real-world scenarios
- Mindset training to stay calm and clear under pressure
A Safe Space to Grow Stronger
Our self-defense classes in Bethany are inclusive, empowering, and beginner-friendly. We create a respectful, supportive environment where women of all backgrounds and fitness levels can build confidence, develop new skills, and walk taller—knowing they’re prepared for the unexpected.
Ready to Take Control of Your Safety?
Don’t let fear dictate your life. Whether you’re here for self-defense classes in Bethany, want to explore martial arts for women’s self-defense in Portland, or just want to feel more confident walking through the world, Empower Her is the course for you.
Join the Empower Her Course at Instinct Defense Academy.
Become stronger. Smarter. Safer.
