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Tri-City Training is hosting introductory self-defence training classes for 9 to 12-year-old girls on June 1, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. A session for teen girls runs from 1 to 3 p.m. The cost is $25 for each student.

These sessions will be led by instructor Amanda McAlpine, who said that recently, women and girls have been reaching out to her for help.

“I wanted to provide an opportunity for what they can experience with self-defence training,” McAlpine said. “And I want everyone to walk away with tools that they feel confident using.”

“Sensei Amanda” has an impressive resume of certifications, a background in education, plus a third degree black belt in karate and a first-degree black belt in judo. She loved being an English teacher, but said her own martial arts journey led her down a different path.

She offers group and private training at Tri-City Training and covers physical preparation, strength and conditioning, fitness, wrestling, judo and more.

McAlpine also worked with the Upper Grand District School board to put together and integrate the STRONG Program, which is a for-credit martial arts class for Grade 8 students entering Grade 9.

“I feel so lucky not only to do what I love, but to set kids up for success before they get to high school,” she said.

The main thing she wants her students to take away from their session is confidence in themselves.

“This is a really great way to connect with people and being a part of the community is really important to me,” McAlpine said. “Whether you are a nine-year-old or a 65-year-old, we all have tools that we can use to defend ourselves and keep ourselves safe.”

She said almost everything you learn in martial arts can be applied to your life.

“Even the symbolism behind it, like you’re taking a hit and continuing to move forward,” McAlpine said.

The June 1 sessions cover a bit of everything including setting yourself up for success, awareness skills, consent, movement and blocking with simultaneous striking, escape and evasion techniques, ground defence and recovery, and even legal and ethical considerations.

“It’s difficult to put everything into one class,” McAlpine said. “I try to cover the top areas of concern and give them some scenario-based training.”

McAlpine uses age-appropriate scenarios and language, and of course, leaves time for questions.

“I incorporate some games into it to teach skills as well, especially for the nine to 12-year-olds,” McAlpine said. “It helps them to feel more comfortable. I really try to create a safe and positive space, so that people can learn and remember the skills as well.”

She said the workshops are opportunities for students to put physical concepts into action and learn about their body and natural instincts. McAlpine said she encourages participants to keep practising their skills. If they are interested, she offers courses to further explore concepts and techniques.

There are also four and 10-week introductory courses available for women on Wednesdays and Fridays.

For more information, or to sign up, visit .