Rory Miller’s powerful words shape the foundation of everything we teach at Instinct Defense Academy:
“It is better to avoid than to run, better to run than to de-escalate, better to de-escalate than to fight, better to fight than to die.”
Empowering young women to navigate the world with confidence and safety is the core mission of our Empower Her program. Designed to teach essential self-defense skills, this program focuses on situational awareness, intuitive decision-making, and effective strategies to avoid danger—because the best fight is the one you don’t have to fight.
Why It’s Crucial for Young Women to Learn Self-Defense Before College
Heading off to college is an exciting milestone, filled with independence, growth, and new opportunities. 
Yet, it’s important to acknowledge the realities young women face. Studies indicate that up to 25% of female college students report being victims of sexual assault. This alarming statistic highlights the need for proactive safety measures.
Self-defense is not just about physical techniques; it’s about giving women the tools to feel strong, safe, and self-reliant in every situation. Here’s why self-defense is essential for young women:
- Confidence Building:
Learning self-defense instills a sense of empowerment that transcends physical safety. When young women know they can protect themselves, they exude confidence in every aspect of their lives—from academics to social interactions. - Situational Awareness:
The ability to identify potential risks and make informed decisions is a cornerstone of personal safety. Self-defense training sharpens this awareness, helping women avoid dangerous situations before they escalate. - Mental Resilience:
Life is unpredictable. Self-defense prepares young women to stay calm under pressure, make decisive choices, and take control of their environment, no matter the challenge.
The Benefits of Learning Self-Defense Online
For many women, stepping into a traditional martial arts gym or dojo can feel intimidating. The atmosphere may seem exclusionary, aggressive, or simply not welcoming to beginners. This is where online self-defense training becomes a game-changer.
With our upcoming Empower Her online course, women can:
- Learn From Home: Train in a safe, supportive environment where you feel most comfortable—free from judgment or embarrassment.
- Enjoy Flexibility: Access on-demand lessons that fit seamlessly into your schedule, allowing you to learn at your own pace.
- Feel Empowered: Build skills and confidence from the privacy of your home, while still receiving expert guidance and encouragement.
How the Empower Her Program Stands Out
Our Empower Her program is designed to meet women where they are, offering both in-person and virtual options to accommodate different needs and lifestyles. Key features include:
- Practical techniques that address real-life scenarios.
- Lessons tailored for women of all experience levels.
- A focus on de-escalation and avoiding danger whenever possible.
Whether you attend a live class or join our online program, you’ll gain life-changing skills that extend far beyond self-defense.
Take the First Step Toward Empowerment
As young women prepare for the challenges and opportunities of college life, investing in self-defense training is one of the most empowering decisions they can make. With our Empower Her program, you’ll not only learn how to stay safe—you’ll discover the confidence, awareness, and resilience to thrive in any situation.
Join our live classes today to experience the full benefits of Empower Her in person. Plus, gain exclusive early access to our online program when it launches, so you can continue your journey to empowerment from anywhere.
Empower yourself or the young women in your life with skills and strategies that last a lifetime. Together, let’s create a world where every woman feels strong, capable, and safe.
Visit Instinct Defense Academy to sign up for a live class or join the waiting list for our online course.