Self-defense isn’t just about fighting—it’s about survival, confidence, and taking control of your own safety. Unfortunately, many women are taught myths that can put them in more danger rather than protecting them. At Instinct Defense Academy, we break these myths and provide the best self-defense classes for women in Portland and Bethany, focusing on simple, direct, and effective techniques—just like in Krav Maga.

The 3 Myths That Put Women in Danger
Too often, women are given misleading advice about how to handle an attack. Here are the three most dangerous myths—and the truths that could save your life.
Myth #1 – “Just Fight Back”
Many people believe that resisting an attacker always leads to safety, but random, untrained resistance can escalate violence.
✅ Truth: Effective self-defense isn’t about “just fighting back.” It’s about controlled, strategic responses—knowing when to resist, when to escape, and how to use your environment to your advantage. Our training, influenced by Krav Maga principles, teaches women to react with precision, not panic.
Myth #2 – “Just Comply, and You’ll Be Safe”
Some say that if you cooperate, an attacker will let you go. Reality? Compliance often escalates the situation.
✅ Truth: Attackers choose victims based on who they believe won’t fight back. Your best chance isn’t submission—it’s breaking their plan. Whether it’s verbal tactics, physical techniques, or situational awareness, our self-defense classes train you to disrupt an attack before it gets worse.
“Resisting doesn’t mean fighting to the death—it means making it too difficult for an attacker to succeed.” – Gavin de Becker, The Gift of Fear
Myth #3 – “You Need to Be Strong to Defend Yourself”
A common misconception is that only strong or athletic women can fight off an attacker.
✅ Truth: Strength is not the most important factor in self-defense—strategy, technique, and mindset are. Our women’s self-defense classes focus on leverage, speed, and efficiency, using techniques inspired by Krav Maga and other martial arts to help anyone—regardless of size or strength—defend themselves effectively.
Why Choose Instinct Defense Academy?
If you’re looking for the best self-defense classes for women in Portland, Instinct Defense Academy offers a unique, empowering experience that blends real-world techniques with mental and physical preparedness.
✔️ Practical Techniques – Our training is based on Krav Maga principles—simple, effective, and designed for real-world situations.
✔️ Safe & Supportive Environment – No matter your fitness level or experience, our instructors make sure every woman feels comfortable and empowered.
✔️ Realistic Training Scenarios – Learn how to recognize threats, respond under stress, and escape safely.
✔️ Full-Body Fitness Benefits – Improve strength, endurance, and confidence while learning to protect yourself.
Women’s Martial Arts in Bethany, Portland
For women looking to go beyond self-defense, we also offer women’s martial arts classes in Bethany, Portland. Training in disciplines like Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and Krav Maga helps build:
- Powerful striking techniques
- Ground defense & escapes
- Mental and physical resilience
Take the First Step Toward Your Safety Today
Don’t wait for danger to come to you—take control of your safety now. Whether you’re looking for women’s self-defense in Portland or martial arts training in Bethany, Instinct Defense Academy is here to help.
- Sign up for a class today!
- Portland & Bethany locations available
- Contact us for schedules and pricing
Empower yourself. Protect yourself. Be prepared.
