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Courage Through Self-Defense Skills

Shielded Roots Self Defense -- Teaching self-defense using the principles of jiu jitsu while building character, strengthening families, uniting communities, and honoring diversity.

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Our Services

About Us

At Shielded Roots, we are committed to providing top-notch self-defense classes and empowering our students with vital skills that extend beyond physical combat. We believe in nurturing personal growth and fostering connections within our training community.

What We Offer

​Shielded Roots Self Defense offers self-defense classes based on the proven principles of jiu jitsu. Our programs help students of all ages and backgrounds build confidence, strengthen family bonds, and become part of a united, supportive, and diverse community. Join us to learn valuable skills, grow in character, and discover the power of connection — on and off the mat. 

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Harry

Testimonials

"We are incredibly grateful for the impact that Jeff and Jenny have had on our family. Watching our son's and daughter's confidence grow as they've learned has been truly inspiring. They've not only improved their skills on the mat but have also developed a greater awareness of their bodies and capabilities. The community that Jeff and Jenny have fostered is remarkable. We couldn't have asked for better instructors as martial artists and as individuals."

Just My Opinion

April Greninger - Marriage & Family Therapist Certified Clinical Supervisor

Hello, I’m April.  I’m a marriage and family therapist in Edmonds.  I ask every parent I ever work with if their child is in a self-defense or martial arts class.  I am constantly fascinated by how much sports are encouraged over, or instead of, self-protection.  

 

I express to these parents how today’s world really requires more intentionality with physical protection. I always emphasize that their first weapon in self-defense is their BRAIN; stay away from trouble, avoid troubling friendships, etc.  But what if the trouble comes at you?

 

Self-defense and martial arts are not only about being physically capable of protecting oneself and loved ones.  It’s the confidence you build with your physical strength and knowhow.  One begins to trust the Self through experience in managing conflict when there may be a lack of emotional intelligence. Martial arts also gives opportunity for one to trust others; in some sports a “tap out” is to indicate a submission and when a release is immediate trust is cultivated.  

 

The confidence is not limited to the martial art; it will seep into other arenas of life because it is also an identifier.  People like to know who they are and represent themselves.  Martial arts is a unique identifier; it indicates restraint, power, skill.  Knowing one has these qualities can be very empowering in times of doubt and transition.

 

I am a parent of a single child.  I tended to be concerned about his socializing as a child with no siblings.  I spent a lot of time investing into my child’s relationship with his cousins.  This went perfectly.  All the boys were the best of buddies.  I spent a lot of time setting up playdates with school mates; sudden slumber parties were my expertise.  Then, as life promises, life changed.   His cousins moved far away at the same time he had to switch schools without his schoolmates to follow an academic program.  My son has been in Jiu Jitsu since he was 6 years old.  They were the only constant in his life (besides me and his Dado).  I was so relieved, and proud, that he took these transitions so very well.  

 

The Self Trust / confidence he had developed through jujitsu carried into his solo act with his viola during orchestra; his sportsmanship in soccer; his humility as a Varsity Captain in his first year of 7th grade wrestling; and his mental endurance for chess club and the Highly Capable Program.

 

What parents don’t always understand is that it’s less about the art and so much more about the coaches!!  Jeff and Jenny Pierson are Brazilian Jiu Jitsu coaches for Kindred Jiu Jitsu and now Shielded Roots Self-Defense.   They exercise so much child psychology in their approach to teaching that they cultivate a community where families come together to celebrate victories and support each other’s non-victorious experiences!  When you take self-protection seriously it does become a large part of one’s lifestyle.  It’s brilliant to experience this lifestyle with like-minded people who want to be family oriented and safe.  The relief and pride I have that my son and all his friends practice Jiu Jitsu are priceless.  From his Jiu Jitsu he has friends that are from a couple years younger to a couple years older, giving him relationship dynamics a kin to family siblings.  They’re the type of friends I would want for my son because as no one is perfect, they know they can TRUST and RESPECT each other.  That’s so important to me as a professional and as the mother.  

Process

How It Works

A unique feature of Shielded Roots Self-Defense is its ability to bring mats directly to any location, eliminating the need for customers to travel. This convenience allows for greater accessibility and participation in self-defense training. For larger events, Shielded Roots Self-Defense can host classes at its affiliated jiu-jitsu academy, Kindred Jiu-Jitsu, located in Edmonds, WA. This flexibility and commitment to community engagement set Shielded Roots Self-Defense apart in the self-defense training market.

To get started, simply contact us to schedule an initial assessment. After that, individuals of all ages will be on their way to feeling empowered and secured in their ability to protect themselves.

Contact Us

Have a question or want to learn more about our programs? Reach out to us via the form below, and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.

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