Every woman deserves to feel safe and confident. Our Women's Self-Defense program at Ippon Sports Academy goes far beyond learning to throw a punch—it's about developing situational awareness, boundary-setting skills, and practical techniques that work in real-world scenarios. Led by Coach Fernanda Araujo and Sensei Michelle Marques, both female black belts with professional fighting experience, our program is taught by women who understand the unique safety concerns women face.
Every woman deserves to feel safe and confident. Our Women's Self-Defense program at Ippon Sports Academy goes far beyond learning to throw a punch—it's about developing situational awareness, boundary-setting skills, and practical techniques that work in real-world scenarios. Led by Coach Fernanda Araujo and Sensei Michelle Marques, both female black belts with professional fighting experience, our program is taught by women who understand the unique safety concerns women face.
Learn techniques specifically designed for real-world situations women may encounter, from escaping grabs to de-escalation strategies.
Develop the ability to read environments, recognize potential threats early, and make confident decisions in uncertain situations.
Discover your body's natural strength and learn to use leverage and technique to protect yourself regardless of size.
Train in an all-female, supportive environment where women of all backgrounds and fitness levels encourage each other.
Skills learned in self-defense—boundary setting, assertiveness, awareness—translate directly into everyday personal and professional life.
World Championships, Pan American Championships, Brazilian Nationals, and American Nationals title holder in both Gi and No-Gi. Holds a degree in Physical Education from Methodist University in Brazil. Former amateur MMA fighter turned passionate coach dedicated to developing the next generation of martial artists.
Professional fighter with deep expertise across striking and grappling. Black belts in both Jiu-Jitsu and Judo. Competed professionally in MMA and boxing. Training in martial arts since age 3, Fernanda brings a lifetime of competitive experience and teaching passion to every session.
| Day | Time | Class | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuesday | 4:30–5:00 PM | Mini Ninjas (Ages 2.5–5) | St. John's Parish House, Charlestown |
| Tuesday | 5:00–6:00 PM | BJJ Kids (Ages 6–12) | St. John's Parish House, Charlestown |
| Tuesday | 7:00–8:00 PM | BJJ Adults | Sityodtong, Somerville |
| Wednesday | 4:30–5:30 PM | Muay Thai Kids | Charlestown YMCA |
| Thursday | 4:15–4:45 PM | Mini Ninjas (Ages 2.5–5) | Charlestown YMCA |
| Thursday | 4:45–5:45 PM | BJJ Kids (Ages 6–12) | Charlestown YMCA |
| Thursday | 7:00–8:00 PM | BJJ Adults | Sityodtong, Somerville |
Not at all. Our program is designed for women of all fitness levels and body types. Techniques are based on leverage, not strength.
Our self-defense program welcomes women of all ages. We've taught participants from teens to women in their 70s.
Yes! We offer private workshops for corporate teams, community organizations, college groups, and private events. Contact us for custom scheduling.
Our instructors are actual professional fighters and black belt holders—not just certification holders. You're learning from women who've competed at the highest levels of martial arts.
Your first class is free. No experience necessary. All skill levels welcome.
No experience needed · All ages 2.5+ · Want a free class first? Email us