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Bully Defense System

Kids Muay Thai Kickboxing and bully de-escalation, in one program. Children get the physical and verbal tools to avoid being bullied, and learn that walking away is a sign of strength.

Ages 5 to 13Boxing + Muay ThaiDe-escalation trainingNo unsupervised sparring

Try a Free Class Call (240) 286-5219

Confidence without aggression

Our Bully Defense System gives children a fun, structured way to build confidence, discipline, coordination, respect and fitness. Students learn the fundamentals of Boxing and Muay Thai Kickboxing alongside how to stay calm, follow directions and de-escalate.

It is shaped by Professor Charles Cherry, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and retired federal law enforcement officer who wrote the book Bully Proofing Your Child. Instructors use role-play, discussion and repetition so students practise skills they can use at school, online and in everyday life. WTOP covered his approach to bullying in 2024.

Kids in Bully Defense System shirts in class

The response sequence

Five steps, practised until they’re automatic

Children learn a simple, repeatable response for difficult social situations. Walking away, reporting a problem and controlling their own behavior are signs of strength, not weakness.

Stay calm

Pause, breathe, and avoid responding with anger or panic.

Use words

Give a clear, confident instruction: “Stop. I don’t like that.”

Create space

Move away, keep distance, and don’t get drawn into an argument.

Get support

Tell a teacher, parent, coach or another trusted adult.

Stay safe

Physical skills are a last-resort safety tool, never a way to retaliate.

In class

What students learn

Muay Thai stance, movement, pad work and coordination
Defensive awareness, distance and moving away from conflict
Breathing and staying calm when frustrated or embarrassed
A confident voice and clear boundaries
The difference between teasing, conflict and bullying
When to disengage, leave and get help from a trusted adult

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Girls practising stick defense in a training room

For the shy child

Structure, a confident voice and real skills give quieter kids the confidence to stand tall.

For the energetic child

Pad work and clear routines channel energy into focus, self-control and listening.

For families

Better focus, healthier ways to handle frustration, and practical tools for peer conflict.

Google reviews

Don’t take our word for it

Bellicose is rated 4.9 out of 5 on Google. More reviews

My kids love Bully Defense System, Kids Jiu Jitsu and Little Lions Karate and I love my kickboxing classes. The staff is welcoming and knowledgeable and you’ll get a great workout with great people!

What really stood out to us was how patient, welcoming, and encouraging everyone is. The instructors take the time to explain and demonstrate each step and make sure you understand what you’re doing without making you feel rushed or overwhelmed.

I did notice a massive change in behavior because the teachers and kids create a trend of discipline and working out which mirrored onto him.

FAQ

Bully Defense System: your questions

Anything else, call (240) 286-5219 and a coach will help.

Does this teach my child to fight?

No. Our goal is not to teach children to fight. It is to help them become capable, confident young people who handle conflict with maturity, respect and good judgement.

Is there sparring?

There is no unsupervised sparring. Physical contact is introduced only when appropriate, controlled and consistent with program safety standards.

Is it a good fit for kids with autism or ADHD?

Professor Cherry is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and uses that training to help students with autism, ADD and other developmental differences. Call us to talk through your child’s needs.

Can my child do Bully Defense and Kids BJJ?

Yes. Kids classes combine both programs, and many families do both. Striking and grappling together make a well-rounded young martial artist.

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