roots of karate
in these drop-in trainings you’ll explore the self-protection roots of karate as a practice of connection, play, and trust-building
You know moving your body reduces stress and improves your mental health, but it can feel intimidating to go to a movement class as a person who is sensitive, neurodivergent, or recovering from trauma (or all three).
We meet you where you are and invite you into a fun, connective martial arts experience — with a step-by-step process, friendly training partners, and the personalized feedback you need to cross each threshold in our unique program.
Meet multiple needs in one training session
explore
your own culture and history plus the art of karate
play
connect
belong
The story of karate
What to expect
Here’s what to expect from a typical session:
Circle
Learn sklls
Explore story
“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.”
This is for you if…
If any of the following apply, you may already be a Tender Warrior:
You avoid or feel overwhelmed/intimidated by conflict
You could use some support in building enough self-trust to let your guard down
You want to feel more confident and capable moving through the world
You believe that safety is rooted in community trust, not violence
You need support processing and sharing your ancestral experiences
You’ve always wanted to learn a traditional martial art, but felt intimidated by going into a gym or dojo
You experienced bullying, intimidation or abuse and want to reclaim a sense of safety
You…
How to participate
Connect to your mind, body, heart, and essence to cultivate resilience
Quiet your mind
Layer 1: Cultivate focus as you practice mindful movement
Root in your body
Layer 2: Cultivate presence as you learn to embody each technique
Find your flow
Layer 3: Cultivate connection, in yourself, and in fun partner drills
Bring your fire
Layer 4: Cultivate authenticity as you find your unique expression of the art
tender warrior is a practice of gentle strength and fierce compassion
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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.
Getting started
New members begin their journey with a three hour intro workshop. As a member you’ll receive personalized feedback and support throughout your training journey, so we only accept a limited number of new members at a time.
After the workshop you'll be eligible to become a monthly member and attend our weekly classes at Gymsmithy in Columbia City (Mon/Wed, 6:30 - 7:30 pm & Sat, 10 - 11:30 am).
Membership is $160 / month (limited sliding scale options are available, please contact us for more info).
Next intro workshop
Our next workshop is Saturday, 2/8 @ Gymsmithy in Columbia City
$50 / person (save $10 when you register with a friend)
Free boxing gloves when you register early 🥊
What to expect
A fun introduction to the basics of kickboxing for sensitive people
Light to moderate workout with plenty of breaks
Facilitated connection practices to get to know one another
Contact / Waiting list
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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.