KICKBOXING FOR SENSITIVE PEOPLE

A trauma-informed martial arts practice for sensitive and neurocomplex people seeking movement, focus, and connection — with steady support and a welcoming community.

You will leave each session feeling centered, strong, and more like yourself.

You know moving your body reduces stress and improves mental health, but it can feel intimidating to join a movement class if you’re sensitive, neurodivergent, or recovering from trauma.

We meet you where you are and invite you into a fun, connective martial arts experience with friendly partners, supportive structure, and personalized feedback.

The world is intense right now, and it can feel overwhelming for a sensitive nervous system. Through practice we build resilience together.

The overall vibes were so supportive and I felt like I could show up as I am. I have never truly been met where I am when starting a new gym, workout class, or other practices before.
— Rachel

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 have big feelings that sometimes derail you

  • Yoga moves too slow for your mind and everything else moves too fast for your body

  • You get really bored or lose focus in workout classes

  • You just want to yell — like, all the time

  • You thrive in supportive environments that truly see and value your gifts

You may need a slightly longer runway to get started, but everyone can be a martial artist.

  • "I searched for years to find a martial arts class where I felt implicitly safe and attuned-to. Tender Warrior replaces intensity and aggression with presence, playfulness, and dynamic, interpersonal learning.”

    Alchemi S

  • "The framework makes it easy for people at different levels to engage. If something doesn’t feel right, I can stop, take a few breaths, reorient, and continue. There’s less panic around failure, and that feels really, really wonderful.”

    Juno S

  • “I was surprised by the focus on mindfulness and slowing down, and by the gentleness of the class and the care around controlling how much force we use. Since starting Tender Warrior, I feel more confident and healthier, and I appreciate the progressive values of the space and the teacher.”

    David T

This practice supports you to

Clear your mind

Unwind mental noise and increase capacity to focus

Strengthen your body

Increase your mobility, coordination, and balance

Find your flow

Experience genuine connection and belonging

Burn through stress

Feel refreshed, lighter, and more energized

The Tender Warrior curriculum is built on 30+ years of martial arts experience and a unique cross-disciplinary approach weaving together mindfulness, somatic awareness, and facilitated connection practices.

As we enter our third year, this community of practice continues to grow.

tender warrior is a practice of gentle strength and fierce compassion

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

Take Root this Spring

A six-week introduction to the Tender Warrior practice through movement and grounded connection.

Spring Intro Package
Your registration includes:

  • 3-Hour Opening Workshop

  • 12 Kickboxing Classes (6 Weeks)

  • Boxing gloves (yours to keep)

  • 8-page training guide zine

  • 6 weekly emails to support your journey

All sessions are held at 3721 S Alaska St in Columbia City.

Opening Workshop
Sat, Feb 28 | 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.

Your 6 Week Journey
Mon & Wed | 7:30 – 8:30 pm
Mar 2 - Apr 8

  1. Orient to build trust and safety

  2. Focus through mindful movement

  3. Center in grounded presence

  4. Expand into connection and flow

  5. Channel your energy with intention

  6. Adapt and shape new possibilities

New material is taught on Mondays and reviewed on Wednesdays, so you won’t fall behind if you miss a session.

Are you ready?

Register today to save your spot. This cohort is limited to 8 new participants.

Your price: $195

(Sliding scale available — contact us for details)

Not ready? The next intro series is tentatively planned for May 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.