KICKBOXING FOR SENSITIVE PEOPLE
A trauma-informed martial arts practice for sensitive and neurocomplex people seeking movement, focus, and connection.
Tender Warrior is a relational training ground where we engage and support one another to realize the gifts inherent in our unique ways of perceiving the world.
Tender Warrior is built on the belief that sensitivity, when properly supported and trained, becomes a profound source of strength.
Movement and community connection reduce stress and improve mental health, but many sensitive and neurodivergent people struggle to find physical activities where they feel supported enough to thrive.
Each practice session is a unique experience we create together through conscious relational practices, structured partner work, and real martial arts training.
As you master the Way of the Tender Warrior, the struggles that once overwhelmed you become the very gifts needed to adapt in a radically changing world.
This is for you if…
If any of the following apply, you may already be a Tender Warrior:
You have a hard time getting out of your head and into your body
You give way too many fucks — like, a debilitating amount of fucks
You feel deeply affected by the energy and atmosphere of the spaces around you
You get really bored or lose focus in workout classes
You just want to yell — like, all the time
You crave real connection, but group spaces often feel exhausting or performative
You thrive in supportive environments that truly see and value your gifts
Many of our members arrive feeling disconnected from their bodies or convinced they’re “not athletic.”
Tender Warrior combines practical fighting skills with supportive coaching to meet you where you are and level you up.
We don’t lower the bar — we lengthen the runway.
Your Foundation Training
Your Orientation Session and Foundation Training are a structured introduction to the Combat Improv system and the Way of the Tender Warrior.
Combat Improv is a training game unique to Tender Warrior where sensitive people embody the qualities that help them thrive: awareness, presence, focus, flow, expression, and conscious adaptation.
Through play fighting, you’ll build the capacity to stay present and responsive as the game intensifies — rather than defaulting to collapse, freezing, masking, or dissociating.
During your first month, you’ll learn:
stance and footwork
breathing, mindfulness, and regulation
striking and pad holding fundamentals
authentic connection practices
the structure of the game
how to train safely with others
By the end of your Foundation Training, you’ll be able to participate in engaging Combat Improv sessions with a variety of training partners and be ready to level up in the system and join our intermediate trainings.
Frequently asked questions
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We strongly recommend attending at least two classes per week. We understand everyone has crazy schedules though. If you can make one week night per week and at least two Saturday’s per month that is workable.
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Our process is designed to meet you where you are and build your strength, stability, and balance. We empower one another to listen to our bodies and define our appropriate level of challenge.
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There are no contracts, but as we make an investment in all new members we request you make a personal commitment for at least three months of training.
Summer Welcome Special
Begin with a 3-hour Orientation Session followed by one month of Foundation Training
✨ Your registration includes:
3-Hour Orientation Session
1 Month of Foundation Training (June 2026)
Boxing gloves (yours to keep)
8-page training guide zine
4 weekly emails to support your journey
All for the special rate of: $195
(Sliding scale available — contact us for details)
Location and Schedule Information
→ All sessions are held at 3721 S Alaska St in Columbia City.
Orientation Session
Sat, May 30 | 11:30 - 2:30 pm
Build confidence by working with other new participants in this opening workshop. Completion is required to attend the weekly sessions.
Foundation Training
Mon & Wed | 7:30 – 8:30 pm
Jun 1 - 29
Weeks 1 - 3 → Build confidence in the basics
Week 4 → Celebrate with full Combat Improv rounds
New lessons are usually taught on Mondays and reviewed on Wednesdays, so if you miss a class you won’t fall behind. Your first month is a focused introduction to help you learn the practice, we recommend attending as many sessions as you can.
After completing Foundation Training, students can continue into ongoing monthly practice ($160/month).
Are you ready?
Register today to save your spot. This cohort is limited to 10 new participants.
(Timing doesn’t work? The next intro series is tentatively planned for Fall 2026.)
Contact / Waiting list
If you have any questions or if you’d like to be added to the waiting list for a future intro workshop, please use this form to contact us.
