What is Arise Self-Defense?

Arise Self-Defense or Arise Empowerment Programs offers empowerment self-defense classes for children, teens, adults, communities, schools, and businesses in Vancouver, BC, combining Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, mindset training, discussion, and trauma-informed teaching.

Arise provides self-defense classes and training for a wide range of people and groups: women and teens through weekly classes, preteen girls and non-binary youth ages 9-13 through the Be Your Own Hero program, community groups through workshops, K-12 schools and colleges, and workplaces and organizations.

Where is Arise located?

Arise is based in Vancouver, BC, and offers in-person self-defense classes, workshops, and training across the Vancouver area aand British Columbia, plus an online introductory course for those who can't attend in person. Arise also provides educational content and resources.

Who teaches at Arise?

Arise was founded by educator and martial artist Jess Gordon. Classes are led by certified Empowerment Self-Defense instructors with backgrounds in education, youth work, and martial arts, all trained in trauma-informed, inclusive teaching practices.

Do I need experience to get started?

No. All Arise Self-Defense programs, from weekly classes to workshops to workplace training, are beginner-friendly and require no prior experience or fitness level.

Yes. Arise Self-Defense is committed to creating safe, welcoming spaces for people of all gender identities, sexual orientations, backgrounds, and abilities.

How do I get started with Arise?

Explore our self-defense programs, including weekly classes, Be Your Own Hero preteen program, community workshops, school programs, or workplace training, and reach out through the contact form or email Jess at hello@ariseprograms.com.

Empower & Arise

Self-defense is more than knowing a few kicks or punches, it involves one’s mind, body, and spirit. We’re here to share practical research, resources, and tips for anyone wanting to live a safe and confident life for themselves and their loved ones.

Jessie Gordon 2026-08-15 Jessie Gordon 2026-08-15

Is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Good for Self-Defense?

“It's the question we get asked more than almost any other: does this actually work? Here's the honest answer — why BJJ is built for exactly the situations self-defense scenarios tend to be, and why physical technique is only one piece of the picture."

Cultivate confidence.

Get in touch to learn more.

Empower & Arise

Is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Good for Self-Defense?

Cultivate confidence.

ARISE