Your Instructor

Ari Encarnacion is the lead instructor of Bushido Self Defense, with 20 years of self-defense and martial arts training and 10 years experience teaching.

His self-defense journey started before he was born. His parents met in a karate class and opened a dojo with their head instructor. From childhood, he was immersed in multiple disciplines: Karate, Krav Maga, Aikido, Jiu Jitsu, Judo, and applied self-defense. They trained in each art in its pure form under a founder who had a deep love—and a lifetime of experience—in all of them.

That multi-disciplined foundation shapes everything he teaches today.

What he loves most about teaching self-defense is watching students realize their own capability. The first question he asks every new student is: "What is the goal of self-defense?" The answer should always be: "To get away safely." That clarity—understanding that this isn't about winning fights or proving toughness—unlocks practical learning. Self-defense has no rules except keeping yourself safe, and that's exactly what the class focuses on.

His teaching philosophy is simple: self-defense first. That means the class covers de-escalation, using your voice effectively, running away safely, and applying simple techniques when necessary—all in a safe (and fun!) environment.

When you leave your first class, you'll have learned simple techniques, how to be aware of your surroundings, and how to maintain a clear mind in intense situations. These skills work regardless of your size, strength, or athletic background.