Center of Defensive Arts Introduce
For residents of Washington and the broader Missouri region, finding a martial arts school that prioritizes practical, real-world self-defense over competition is a unique and valuable discovery. Center of Defensive Arts is just such a place. This is not your typical dojo where the goal is to win medals or trophies. Instead, the focus is squarely on a single, vital objective: survival. As one customer aptly put it, the goal here is "to get away not to stay and fight." This philosophy, championed by a team of outstanding and big-hearted instructors, makes the Center of Defensive Arts a truly special and purpose-driven institution in our local community. It provides a safe and supportive environment where individuals can learn to protect themselves and their loved ones with confidence and skill.
The instructors, Mr. Tim and Ms. Emily, are the heart and soul of this academy. Their dedication to their students and their passion for teaching are consistently highlighted in customer reviews. Mr. Tim is described as an "outstanding guy all around and so big hearted," while Ms. Emily is hailed as "one in a million" and "the best kids teacher I've known so far." This level of personal commitment and care creates a positive and nurturing environment that is especially beneficial for children. The fact that the adult students are also praised for being "amazing and help the junior class" shows that the positive culture of support is pervasive throughout the entire school. This sense of a family-like community, where everyone is invested in each other's success, is a compelling reason for anyone to check out this place "as soon as possible."
One of the most appealing aspects of Center of Defensive Arts is its commitment to being a consumer-friendly and transparent business. A real customer review highlighted the school's flexible policies, stating, "We love that there is no contract, and if we miss a class the fee is rolled over!" This approach stands in stark contrast to many commercial gyms and martial arts schools that lock customers into long-term financial obligations. This policy demonstrates a genuine trust in their product and a desire to make self-defense training accessible and stress-free for local families. The focus is on providing a valuable service, not on securing a binding agreement. This transparency, combined with the high quality of instruction, builds trust and loyalty within the community.
The school's curriculum, including its emphasis on Small Circle Jujitsu from the lineage of Professor Wally Jay and Professor Leon Jay, is designed for street-worthy situations, not choreographed competition. This practical approach resonates with individuals and families who want to learn skills that can be used effectively in real-life encounters. The training is comprehensive, but the core message remains simple: be aware, avoid conflict when possible, and know how to defend yourself if necessary. This emphasis on survivability over sparring points is a key distinction that makes Center of Defensive Arts a unique and highly recommended option for anyone serious about personal safety.
Center of Defensive Arts is conveniently located at 416 E Fifth St, Washington, MO 63090, USA. This easily accessible location is a major plus for residents in and around Washington, Missouri, who are looking for local, high-quality instruction. For those arriving by car, the facility offers a wheelchair accessible parking lot, ensuring a smooth and convenient experience from the moment you arrive. The school's amenities are designed to provide a comfortable and functional environment for training. Inside, a restroom is available for the convenience of all students and visitors. The school's straightforward, no-frills approach to its facility underscores its dedication to the training itself, rather than unnecessary extravagances. This focus on the core mission of teaching self-defense is a testament to their professionalism and integrity.
Services Offered
- Comprehensive Self-Defense: The school specializes in providing comprehensive self-defense training based on principles from various martial arts, including Small Circle Jujitsu and Modern Arnis.
- Jiu-Jitsu and Small Circle Jujitsu: Classes in Jiu-Jitsu with a specific focus on Small Circle Jujitsu, a modern and practical martial art for close-quarters self-defense.
- Youth Classes: Dedicated programs for kids and youth that teach self-defense techniques in a safe, fun, and engaging environment. The curriculum focuses on building confidence and valuable life skills.
- Adult Classes: Programs for adults designed to teach effective and practical self-defense, with a strong emphasis on real-world scenarios rather than sport or competition.
- Specialty Programs: The curriculum also includes specialized training such as Modern Arnis (stick fighting) and walking cane defense, providing students with a well-rounded set of defensive skills.
- No-Contract Training: The school offers flexible payment options without requiring long-term contracts, with a policy to roll over fees for missed classes.
Features / Highlights
- Highly Praised Instructors: Customers consistently praise Mr. Tim and Ms. Emily as "amazing" and "outstanding," highlighting their big hearts, knowledge, and talent in teaching children.
- Supportive Community: The school fosters a welcoming and family-like atmosphere where adult students help the junior class, creating a positive and collaborative training environment.
- Practical, Non-Competitive Focus: The school's unique philosophy is centered on teaching practical self-defense for survival, with no emphasis on tournaments or medals.
- Flexible and Fair Policies: The absence of contracts and the policy of rolling over fees for missed classes are highly valued by customers, making the school a trustworthy and accessible option.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: The school is the only one certified to teach Small Circle Jujitsu between Indiana and Texas, offering a unique and effective system for self-defense.
- Proven Track Record: The school has trained employees from various law enforcement and government agencies, attesting to the effectiveness of their methods.
Contact Information
Address: 416 E Fifth St, Washington, MO 63090, USA
Phone: (314) 503-2102
What is worth choosing
For residents in the Missouri region, choosing Center of Defensive Arts is an easy decision for anyone prioritizing practical, no-nonsense self-defense. The single most compelling reason to choose this school is its unwavering focus on "getting away, not staying and fighting." In a world where personal safety is a growing concern, the school's curriculum, which is designed to be effective in real-world situations, is invaluable. This is a place where you or your child will gain genuine confidence and competence in self-protection, without the distractions of competitive martial arts.
Another key factor that makes Center of Defensive Arts worth choosing is the incredible caliber of its instructors, Mr. Tim and Ms. Emily. Their dedication, professionalism, and genuine care for their students create a training environment that is not only effective but also deeply supportive and kind. The customer reviews paint a picture of a place where students are treated like family and feel completely safe and trusted in their instructors' hands. This nurturing atmosphere is crucial for a child's development and for an adult's confidence journey.
Finally, the school's business practices reflect its integrity and commitment to its community. The no-contract policy and the willingness to roll over fees for missed classes show a level of fairness and flexibility that is rare in the industry. This makes the commitment to training a stress-free choice, allowing students and families to focus entirely on learning and personal growth. In essence, Center of Defensive Arts is more than a place to learn a few moves; it's a place to gain life-saving skills, join a supportive family, and become a more knowledgeable and confident individual. For anyone in the Washington, MO, area, it is a truly outstanding option.
Center of Defensive Arts Services
Martial Arts School
- Jiu-jitsu
- Adult Class
- Classes And Seminars
- Comprehensive Self Defense
- Junior Class
- Kids Programs
- Modern Arnis
- Professor Leon Jay
- Professor Wally Jay
- Self Defense
- Self Defense Class
- Self Defense Techniques
- Small Circle Jujitsu
- Stick Fighting
- Walking Cane Defense
- Youth Classes
- Youth Program
Center of Defensive Arts Details
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Amenities
- Restroom
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
Center of Defensive Arts Photos

Center of Defensive Arts Location
Center of Defensive Arts
416 E Fifth St, Washington, MO 63090, USA
Center of Defensive Arts Reviews
learningknowledgeconfidenceteachcollegeadult
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1Mr. Tim is an outstanding guy all around and so big hearted. There isn't enough good I could speak about him and Ms. Emily to explain how amazing this place and they are. They have a great kids class and adult class. I highly recommend for anyone who wants help or who loves knowledge, to check this place out as soon as possible. Ms. Emily is one in a million and the best kids teacher I've known so far. I trust in both of them entirely. You won't be disappointed if you or your child goes here!
July 16 · Rosalinda BimslagerMy daughter is learning self defense and loves it! We love that there is no contract, and if we miss a class the fee is rolled over!The owner Tim is amazing with the children, and the adult students are amazing and help the junior class!The goal here is to get away not to stay and fight. There are no tournaments or medals to be had, which for us works just fine.
November 19 · Sarah McFallMy grandson is 8 years old and MR Tim is his instructor. He loves MR Tim. He looks forward to going every week and I believe he would go everyday if he could. He is also taught RESPECT. Since he has started training with Mr Tim his whole attitude has changed. I can only say THANK YOU for all the LOVE and RESPECT that you have taught my grandson. Mr Tim, SURF LOVES YOU.
June 12 · Colleen StevensI have been going to classes with Tim for over a year now and I can honestly say he is the most professional and knowledgable instructor I have had the pleasure of knowing. He genuinely cares for his students and goes out of his way to accommodate their financial and scheduling needs. I was looking for a class that addressed realistic encounters people face on the street and the Center of Defensive Arts provides that, including weapon defense. I am so happy I found this training center and highly recommend it to anyone who wants good, quality training.
December 20 · Ashley ThomasonMy son has been with Center of Defensive Arts for 5 years. I personally have taken classes at other places that were not particular about defense. They were more about testing to make money. We were very particular when choosing a place for our son. Tim is a great instructor. He teaches defense. He builds confidence in his students. He customizes to every student to use their strengths and guard against their weaknesses. I've learned a lot just watching my son. It quickly becomes a second family. I very highly recommend Tim Raftery /Center of Defensive Arts.
August 15 · Rainsong Morning
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