About Underground Self-Defense

Underground Self-Defense is a local business that offers a range of self-defense, martial arts, and kickboxing programs to help individuals feel safer, stronger, and more connected to their bodies. Whether you're looking for a new hobby or a one-time workshop, they have a program tailored to your needs. The business is dedicated to creating a safe and empowering environment for its students. The instructors, including Ms. Trisha Vanatta and Tyler and Orlando, provide detailed feedback and support throughout the classes. Participants have praised the informative and interesting course materials, as well as the instructors' care and attention to their students' well-being. In addition to their group classes, Underground Self-Defense also offers private self-defense training for workplaces, organizations, and informal groups. Their core values of safety, empowerment, inclusive community, personal growth, and fun are evident in all of their programs. Overall, Underground Self-Defense is a highly recommended option for those seeking to improve their self-defense skills, physical fitness, and overall well-being. With their commitment to creating a safe and supportive environment, they are helping individuals unleash their power and feel safer, stronger, and more connected to their bodies.

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Reviews for Underground Self-Defense

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  • Jun 2026

    My friend and I had a great experience here! It was very interesting and helpful to learn more about Empowerment Self Defense (ESD). We felt comfortable throughout the class and it was fun too! We would definitely recommend and go back.

  • May 2026

    This place is amazing. I can only speak to the experience of bringing my kids, but it's been exactly what I hoped for: a low-stress environment that's friendly to kids with different neurologies.

    If you are looking for a macho, competitive environment to quickly accumulate belt colors and trophies, keep looking; there are plenty of dojos out there that would be right for you, but this isn't one of them.

    If you're looking for a place where your not-quite-typical kid can discover that physical activity, developing new skills, and becoming confident in one's own skin isn't just reserved for other people, then you will be thanking your stars that you found this...read full review

  • May 2026

    At Underground Self-Defense, what started as just martial arts training it became a place of personal development, self-discovery, and community. Through the years, I built long-lasting friendships, and found a space where training was both challenging and genuinely fun. The classes offered practical self-defense skills, physical growth, emotional intelligence, confidence, and a deeper understanding of myself.

    It's not just about learning techniques. It is about learning how to move through the world with more awareness, confidence, discipline, and care for others. The environment is engaging, supportive, and community-driven, while still pushing students to grow....read full review

Hours

Monday: ClosedTuesday: ClosedWednesday: 4:30 - 8:30PM
Thursday: 4 - 8:30PM
Friday: ClosedSaturday: 9:30AM - 1:30PM
Sunday: Closed

Location

532 State St, Madison

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