First Course

Mentoring Through Martial Arts

Our first six-week MMA course is for teens ages 12 to 16 in Central Vermont. The program combines weekly training, group discussion, self-defense, and personal growth in a positive, high-energy environment.

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  • 6-week course
  • 2 hour class each week plus 30 minute group discussion
  • Six students max
  • Barre, Vermont
Resilient Defense Institute course flyer

Resilient Defense Institute

6-Week Youth Self-Defense & Mentorship Program

Program Structure

  • 1 class per week
  • 2.5-hour sessions
  • 6-week beginner youth program
  • 2 hours physical training
  • Final 30 minutes focused on mentorship and group discussion

Program Philosophy

The program begins with:

  • safety,
  • awareness,
  • escape-based self-defense,
  • and conflict avoidance

before gradually introducing:

  • striking,
  • movement,
  • and beginner MMA/kickboxing concepts.

The focus is:

  • confidence,
  • discipline,
  • and self-protection,
    not aggression.

Weekly Class Structure (2.5 Hours)

Physical Training — 2 Hours

1. Warmup & Conditioning — 20 mins

  • stretching
  • movement drills
  • agility work
  • bodyweight conditioning

2. Technique Instruction — 45 mins

  • weekly self-defense lesson
  • controlled demonstrations
  • safety-focused instruction

3. Partner Drills — 35 mins

  • supervised repetition drills
  • movement exercises
  • escape practice

4. Skill Games & Conditioning — 20 mins

  • teamwork challenges
  • reaction drills
  • fitness circuits

Group Discussion & Mentorship — 30 Minutes

Topics may include:

  • discipline
  • bullying prevention
  • emotional control
  • leadership
  • accountability
  • teamwork
  • confidence
  • conflict avoidance
  • healthy habits
  • goal setting

Week 1 — Awareness & Basic Escapes

Training Focus:

  • personal space awareness
  • verbal boundaries
  • wrist grab escapes
  • technical stand-up
  • safe movement

Discussion Topic:

  • respect and self-control

Week 2 — Balance & Defensive Movement

Training Focus:

  • stance
  • balance
  • posture
  • creating distance safely
  • movement under pressure

Discussion Topic:

  • avoiding conflict and making smart decisions

Week 3 — Ground Safety & Escapes

Training Focus:

  • safe falling
  • shrimp movement
  • bridge escape
  • standing safely from the ground
  • beginner BJJ movement

Discussion Topic:

  • staying calm during stressful situations

Week 4 — Basic Striking Fundamentals

Training Focus:

  • jab
  • cross
  • defensive guard
  • shadowboxing
  • movement while striking

Discussion Topic:

  • confidence and emotional control

Week 5 — Kickboxing & Range Control

Training Focus:

  • front kick
  • low kick mechanics
  • basic punch combinations
  • defensive footwork
  • pad work drills

Discussion Topic:

  • leadership and accountability

Week 6 — Beginner MMA Movement & Review

Training Focus:

  • combining movement and striking
  • beginner MMA transitions
  • controlled situational drills
  • teamwork exercises
  • review of all core techniques

Discussion Topic:

  • personal growth
  • future goals
  • supporting teammates and community

Core Program Values

  • Safety First
  • Respect
  • Discipline
  • Confidence
  • Teamwork
  • Self-Defense Only
  • Positive Community Development
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