Martial Arts Programs
We don’t stop at classes! Underdog is proud to offer a variety of programs to ensure that everyone has access to safe, effective martial arts and self defense training.
Women & Femme
Self Defense
Women and Femme
Self Defense
Ready to feel unstoppable? At Underdog Martial Arts in Asheville, NC, we offer high-energy, empowering self defense training through weekly Guerrera Self Defense classes, monthly weekend intensives, and specialized workshops — all designed to make you stronger and more confident in your body and your skills. With five weekly classes led by Guerrera founder Colleen Daly, you'll train in a bold, woman-led, trauma-informed environment that blends the best of kickboxing, jiu jitsu, wrestling, judo, and real-world self defense. Our monthly Guerrera Intensives dive even deeper, offering 3- or 10-hour weekend workshops that are open to all experience levels — beginners welcome! Whether you're here to build power, protect yourself, or connect with a badass community of women and femmes, Guerrera will meet you where you're at and help you level up. Colleen is a black belt in a leading self defense system, a brown belt in 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu, and a former competitor in boxing, kickboxing, and jiu jitsu — and she’s here to teach you how to fight, but mostly to remember that you are worth fighting for. It’s serious training, but a hell of a lot of fun.
Interested in weekly classes? Fill out the form here!
Interested in weekend seminars? Register below!
Kid’s Martial Arts
Kickboxing & Jiu Jitsu
Kid’s Martial Arts
Want your kid to be the kid who stands a little taller, thinks a little sharper, and handles whatever life throws their way? Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and kickboxing do exactly that. Here’s the deal: 81% of parents noticed their kids got noticeably more respectful after starting martial arts (Martial Arts Industry Association, 2020). In just three months, over 80% of kids gained real confidence — the kind that sticks (Youth Martial Arts Association, 2022). After eight weeks, 64% of kids felt safer at school, like they actually know how to handle trouble if it shows up (Journal of Applied Psychology, 2019). Martial arts training also slashes bullying by 68% — not by teaching kids to fight, but to outsmart and outmaneuver (BulliesOut, 2020). Focus and emotional control? Those jump by 52%, especially for kids who struggle to sit still in class (Psychology of Sport and Exercise, 2016). Plus, self-regulation and conflict skills can improve by up to 63% (Children & Schools Journal, NASW, 2017).
This isn’t just a sport — it’s an opportunity for your kid to surprise themselves, and to internalize that they’re stronger than they think.
Why us? Our kids’ program is run by parents, people who GET IT. Our program is intentionally small, allowing for lots of personalized attention. We’ve mastered the perfect blend of honing technique and play, making for a class that keeps your kid’s attention, challenges their brains AND bodies, all while building strong friendships and a sense of community.
Best part? First class is FREE to make sure your kid loves training!
Queer/Trans/LGBT+
Self Defense Workshops
Queer/Trans/LGBT+ Self Defense Workshops
We are dedicated to providing trauma-informed self defense training to those typically overlooked by the martial arts industry.
So if you’re looking to learn tried and true self defense principles and practice a little kicky-punchy-chokey-breaky amongst friends join our free self-defense workshops every first Saturday of the month from 12:30–2:30 PM. No experience needed - just bring your energy and a willingness to learn. The training is FREE to anyone in the LGBT+/queer/trans community. Registration is required so reserve your spot below! (move to the first Saturday of each month in the schedule)