IMPACT is an empowerment self-defense system distinguished by scenarios with a defender (participant), aggressor (suited instructor), and a coach (lead instructor). During scenarios, the lead instructor coaches students; offers support and encouragement; and oversees safety for students and instructors. A suited instructor moves in realistic and varied ways, providing students with the opportunity to practice a range of skills, including full-power physical skills to knock out an assailant to gain time to get to a safer place. Full-force self-defense against a padded attacker creates different challenges than against a stationary target, a sparring opponent, or someone holding a pad or board because a padded attacker is mobile, vulnerable targets are not off-limits, and a defender focuses on generating effective power rather than on precision or perfection. The practice of awareness, verbal, and physical defensive skills in realistic scenarios provides an opportunity to practice adrenaline management and to build “body memory” for mobilizing effective self-protective responses when threatened.

Advanced signup required. Please sign up when you check in at registration. You must be 18 years or older to attend.

Assistant Instructor, Suited: Aaron “AC” Christensen has worked internationally with Peak Potentials and Success Resources, leading motivational camps that incorporate martial arts and verbal tactics to de-escalate and/or end conflicts without compromising one’s safety or integrity (2013-present). In addition to serving as a suited instructor and Instructor Coordinator for IMPACT Chicago, he is a Specialist-level personal trainer and boxing instructor with Chicago Athletic Clubs, and a health/wellness coach and ESD instructor with WellPower Coaching.

Objectives

• Learn and practice basic boundary setting
• Learn and practice three basic self-defense strikes (palm heel, elbow and knee).
• Deliver full power strikes and kicks.
• Take away an increased sense of power in your voice and body.
• Heighten your awareness of in-close defense with strong weapons against vulnerable targets

Class limit: 12

Bring: n/a

Wear: comfortable clothes