Ive been taking classes here for a month and have been extremely impressed with the quality of the classes. I decided to try out the basic Self Defense course as well as the Kali class, which are scheduled back to back.Everyone I have met in the classes has been very welcoming, kind, and helpful. All the students were ahead of me in experience, but I could tell they were careful to slow down for my level. Thats not to say that it wasnt intense! I have left every class soaked in sweat (its a great workout if youre looking to supplement your home/gym routine) and pleasantly exhausted.What I most love about the two classes is that they are geared to be intensely practical. Edwin strives to teach efficient moves that will work anywhere in real life....and wont just look impressive on a Youtube video.The classes frequently pit students against each other in mock mini altercations/battles which (Ive noticed) have already improved my awareness of surroundings as well as increased my physical response time. And just as important, my brain has started to process those altercations faster too.....(slowly, but surely) which allows me time to plan a response (or at least THINK about trying to plan a response....Im still a beginner).Many people have the misplaced notion that if they ever end up in a bad situation, that they will rise to the occasion and appropriately defend themselves. However, unfortunately, they end up freezing instead, because they are so shocked by what is happening, that their brain struggles to process appropriately. Until you place your brain in a stressful environment and practice like you are IN THAT situation with your adrenaline pumping and your hands shaking, then you will lose and it may cost you your life or the life of a loved one.In a world that has grown increasingly insane, safety has never been more important. This is a safe place to practice feeling unsafe, so that you can respond appropriately when it really matters.I couldnt recommend this place enough.

YDA offers the best training programs at a affordable cost to the public. Three amazing programs wrestling, impact & edged weapons, combatives all driven for self defense, purpose. TDA is a non-competing school and focuses more on improving the individual than matches.If your looking for a school to train and learn something from the get go? Check out Texas Defense Academy.

Edwin was extremely welcoming to a newbie and took the time to offer 1:1 pointers and practice with him. He also encouraged the importance to take my time so my body would feel the movement, get accustomed to the grip, notice where my focus is, and think of visuals to help me understand the position of my upper and lower body. At home practice in front of a mirror was also suggested for me to personally see what my body was doing and make corrections.Anna was fantastic and provided redirection to help during warmup and cues to increase the range in my lower body movements. So much fun! Thank you! Also, a welcoming class and the other attendants were kind and helpful.

Texas Defense Academy is really really good!! I had no previous martial arts training or self defense training but after several months of training here, I feel 100% more confident in my abilities to protect myself or my family. Edwin is an all star instructor!

My daughter and I went for a group self defense class, and we are so glad we did. We learned so much and left with knowledge and basic moves that would be helpful in a variety of situations. Edwin, Anna, and Daniel were professional and thorough in their instruction of self defense mentality and techniques. We are thankful for what we learned and highly recommend the class for anyone who is interested in taking a self defense class.

Been taking classes at TDA for around 6 months. Best self defense classes in the area and a ton of fun. If youre looking for training in real life scenarios, this is the place for you.

Edwin and every person who is a part of this place are incredible. My daughter loves taking the kids classes and my husband and I love the adult classes. We all feel stronger, more confident and empowered!

This is the place for true catch wrestling in DFW. Ive been training here since 2018. The instructors are skilled and dedicated to ensuring their students excel. The classes allow for lots of individualized attention in a spirit of honor and respect. All skill levels and ages are welcome (from teens to 50 somethings), and everyone works together in developing their skills and abilities. The facilities are clean and the mat space generous. If you want to practice old school catch as catch can wrestling you need to be here.

My teenage daughter and I recently completed 6 self-defense lessons with Edwin. We both feel more empowered, aware, and ready. Edwin creates a safe, comfortable environment, and is patient, even with those who have no experience. I obtained specific skills, some of them very simple but effective. He focused his instruction on real-life situations that women might encounter. Most importantly, he inspired a new perspective in me. He is encouraging and also attuned to a persons individual strengths, which makes him an excellent teacher!

I began training in martial arts at the age of 15 and have been a part of a number of different academies and gyms. Im now 39 and recently started training at TDA with my son in the catch wrestling program. After only a few weeks of training Ive found the instructors to be highly knowledgeable and my fellow training partners to be accepting and helpful no matter your physical condition or level of experience. My son and I already feel like family and the atmosphere is unmatched. For anyone looking to gain confidence, get in better shape and learn real self defense that can be applied in real life circumstances Texas Defense Academy is the best kept secret in the DFW area.

I was able to attend along with a friend of mine the Womens Self Defense class just as things are slowly opening up after the quarantine, and it was really valuable and beneficial. I learned important lessons on what ones mindset should be to prevent a situation where you may have to protect yourself, along with moves you can make whether with or without a weapon. Definitely good for women who are beginners like me, and the instructor is awesome so you can ask questions at any time and just learn all you can. I believe its important for women and young girls to have those basic skills and awareness to protect themselves because we can automatically seem weak when we are out somewhere alone. Especially me being 5 months preggo...but better believe l dont walk around like a scared puppy. And this class has definitely made me feel more confident. Thanks Edwin! I cant wait to take the other classes you guys have to offer. 👊👊👊

I had a great time at the Womens self Defense class. I learned alot and had fun.

This is my first time to take self defense classes, and I feel more confident already! I love training with Anna, she shows you at a pace you can follow then helps you build strength and speed. She adjusts to your level of knowledge and helps you excel.Their location and equipment is great, will definitely be taking more classes!

My Kids LOVE TDA and Edwin Rodriguez. My children have been attending the kids class for almost 4 years and this has been by far one the best decisions I have ever made. Both my children understand that they are to walk away if possible but have the know how to protect themselves if necessary.Edwin is an excellent instructor and breaks the steps down until the whole class is up to speed. He cares about my children and has come out to watch them play baseball and football, and I know my kids love when he comes.Thanks Edwin for being the awesome person you are :)

This place is great!!! I would rate it 10 on scale of 1 to 5. It has a family atmosphere and all the instructors make sure you feel welcomed and understand everything that is being taught. Edwin exhibits exhilaration and skillfulness, Brian is humorous and has great intellect and Michael is a good mix of being clever and sportive. This is the make up of a dream team. Regardless if your a beginner or a well seasoned veteran, you will be able to apply these techniques to your everyday life. So stop on by and give us a try. I promise you its a decision you wont regret.

Had an AWESOME experience taking the PTK knife defense class with a few of my co-workers. I have never been in a physical confrontation with a knife before, or been in any kind of fight for that matter. So needless to say, before the class I was a little nervous since I had no exposure to this and didnt know what to expect. However, after this class I walked out feeling CONFIDENT that I could protect myself and/or my wife if we happen to encounter anyone who wants to hurt us. I learned very practical skills and are simple enough for a beginner to understand and work effectively to fend off an assailant. And as an added perk, my pocket knife feels a bit less like a toy now, and more like something I can use to potentially save my life (or other lives) in the future. I highly recommend this class.

I signed up a group of high school seniors going off to college next year for a group lesson. My main goal was for them to learn some self defense. I stayed to watch the entire session and I was extremely impressed. Edwin really engaged the girls and made them think about their safety. He taught situational awareness and had them do several hours of hand to hand self defense moves. Most of these girls have never hit anything, so for them fight to protect themselves was very empowering. I learned many moves that my own self defense class didnt teach me. I would recommend this class to anyone wanting a refresher and all parents wanting to give their kids some knowledge on what to do if they are attacked. Edwin and Terry were great instructors and the girls were so pumped up leaving the studio. Money and time well spent!

I would give this place 6 stars if I could! Hands down, this school is amazing! The instructors are all wonderful and incredibly knowledgeable! The other students quickly become friends; from day one I felt welcomed! The vast amount of knowledge at this school is mind blowing (which is often how my brain feels at the end of each class) but every time I come back, I feel stronger and better! Check this place out! It is well worth a visit!

As a Instructor in Self Defense and Personal Protection I travel a bit to train with who I hope will add valuable knowledge to my skillsets. TDA is one that I just keep revisiting time and again!The programs there are excellent and a personal favorite is the Ballistic 3 classes.I feel the training the next day every time!I am not the 5 star giving type just because someone was nice or the place was clean (which TDA is) I need to feel like I got what I was looking for and they nailed it every single time I train with them.Trust me, If you are looking for practical, not pretty realistic training then this is it.

Edwin came to our location and taught a self defense class to teenagers and adults. He was very knowledgeable and an excellent instructor. We all loved his class and the teens are asking us to sign them up again!

The Texas Defense Academy has been one of the greatest experiences Ive ever had, its completely great hands on defense training, the instructors are awesome they work with you through every step. I signed up the first day i went and ever since then Ive been addicted and still cant get enough. Everyone is very friendly we all help each other out, its just an awesome place that will help you grow and gain more of your self confidence. More importantly help you be prepared for the unexpected in the real world. Come on down!!!

My daughter has been taking weekly self defense classes with Edwin for almost a year. In addition to learning the basics of self defense, her self confidence, especially her confidence in her ability to defend herself, has increased significantly. It has been a wonderful experience for her and given her important tools heading into her teen years!

Just completed an introductory self defense class with Edwin. I cannot begin to describe just how informative and beneficial this class was. Edwin was able to answer all our questions about multiple situations and common misconceptions. Needless to say, I feel a lot more safe and prepared to handle or avoid an unfortunate situation.

My Mom and I both wanted to take some self-defense classes, so we signed up with the Texas Defense Academy. Over the past month, we have learned some invaluable skills. We learned how to cover, how to punch, and how to do some basic ground fighting. One idea that really stuck out to me was just the basic concept of creating distance at all times with people you dont know. I had never really thought about that until I had taken this class.The instructors are all awesome! We were welcomed very warmly as if we had been there before. They were very patient with us, as they taught us new skills. My Mom and I both thoroughly enjoyed every minute!Besides learning, you get to have a fun time! I was able to help demonstrate different techniques with the instructors, which I thought was quite a lot of fun! I highly recommend TDA!!

Ive been going to TDA for almost a year now and its been great! I had always wanted to join a self defense class but have always struggled to find a place that cared about people as individuals or charged an arm and a leg. Edwin was on the phone with me for almost an hour talking with me about what the classes were about and that helped me feel really comfortable showing up to class that first day. Originally I had just planned on taking their B3 course but Edwin and Bryan (the wrestling instructor) encouraged me to stay for the CSW class (for free) to see if it would be something I was interested in. I stayed and ended up signing up for two classes instead of one. Both instructors are very knowledgeable and understanding to each students individual needs. Nobody there was trying to prove how skilled they were and show off to the new people, none of it was overwhelming, which was one of my concerns as a female student. Im approaching my first year mark as a student and Im counting on reaching my second, third, etc years.

If you are looking to start defensive training, you have found the place. There is no better school in DFW than TDA for the level of instruction and the training environment. One thing that drives many people away from starting their training is that they may feel intimidated, or they can’t find an instructor with the training methods that are right for them. You won’t feel like that here! Edwin knows how to tailor the training to the way that you learn best. It doesn’t matter how old you are, or what your background is – there are people of all ages and walks of life who are always learning and making each other better. There are even versions of the classes for young kids.I started training with Edwin specifically for PTK, but I took the DX classes (empty hands) and learned a lot of very valuable skills there as well. Edwin is very humble. He says he just passes on the knowledge, but he is an amazing instructor. He teaches you to get moving and how to be effective from the start. He is also very good at breaking down a drill in pieces that are easy to learn, and explains the significance and application behind it. Anna, the lead female instructor is also highly skilled and very good at teaching women how to be effective through her seminars. I have learned a lot from Anna as well. When you train with Edwin and Anna you train like you fight, but also in a safe manner. Edwin pushes everyone to be their best with the goal of them becoming as good or better than he is. He also makes sure the intensity is right so that you learn the mechanics and can apply them automatically outside of class with the same intensity.Training with Edwin, Anna and the TDA family was the highlight of my time in Dallas. If I hadn’t moved for work, I’d still be making the trip from Dallas 3 days a week, every week! Even though I moved, I am continuing my training with an instructor that Edwin knows in my area. After my experience training with Edwin and Anna at TDA, there’s no way I couldn’t be dedicated to training for life.

Texas Defense Academy is an absolutely great place to learn self-defense! I live in California but come out to Texas a lot for work and was looking for a place to pick up some self defense. Fortunately, I came across Texas Defense Academy and started training with Edwin and Terry for the past couple of months. Wow! What an experience its been! From day one, they began to show me powerful self-defense concepts and techniques that I could implement right away. Their training sessions not only provide a physical workout by having you constantly practice what they show you, but are also a mental exercise because they explain the theory behind the practice.Moreover, the instructors scaffold the learning environment by always showing and providing you with techniques that incorporate just enough challenge to push you a little further each time. I have learned a lot in the past couple of months and look forward to experiencing more at Texas Defense Academy!

My name is Mike (dont know how to change mate lock). My experience at TDA was amazing. I learned what I wanted to and have the upmost respect for all the instructors. It is truly a family atmosphere where everyone wants you to succeed.

Im a practitioner under the PTK-SMF/ Filipino Martial Arts and DX programs and Ive been so impressed with the dedication and experience Edwin imparts on me and his students. Both of these programs will get you thinking and moving on your feet very quickly (from the very first class), and you will have immediate validation. Edwin is a top quality instructor and truly adjusts to the needs of each student. Generous with his time and knowledge. Both programs are designed to equip you with invaluable tools for self-protection, and constantly challenges you to re-evaluate your mindset while improving upon your natural body mechanics.

From the very first session, I began learning easy and uncomplicated self defense moves and techniques that I could apply as soon as I left the class. TDA teaches how one can confidently walk without worrying about what you would or can do in the event you get approached by anyone with the intent to assault or harm you or someone you are with.Although concealed weapons are useful tools in self-defense situations, TDA encourages the use of your mind and awareness as primary weapons. Since having some sort of formal training isnt a prerequisite, anyone can learn the techniques or methods to effectively defend against common assaults with or without weapons.The Texas Defense Academy is the place to go to learn how to walk around with a higher level of confidence.

I requested specific training. The group went above and beyond my expectation and I expected a lot! If I did not understand a move, they went over it until I did grasp the concept.Highly recommend!

The self defense workshop was great! Edwin blew away a lot of false ideas and gave great techniques we can practice at home!

Im enrolled in the PTK-SMF and DX Combatives programs. This place is fantastic and the amount of knowledge that the instructors have is phenomenal.

The guys at TDA are very passionate about thier students and about teaching self defense. the instructors go out of their way to train with the best in the industry in order to offer the best to the students of TDA. if you are looking for a good school you cannot go wrong with the Texas Defense Academy and their Instructor team.

You wont find a school where the instructors are more knowledgeable or care more about each student. They make the information understandable and fun, and are always willing to go the extra mile to ensure each person is best able to defend themselves. Ive been attending Ballistic 3 and CSW for about 8 months and I have learned an extraordinary amount and feel a thousand times more capable of defending myself in a wide variety of situations. The classes do not merely consist of your run-of-the-mill self defense tactics such as pepper spraying, kicking in the groin, and stabbing eyes; rather, they equip you to actually be able to FIGHT and be constantly moving to increase your chance of survival. Any situation imaginable--including ground fights, use of weapons, attacks from all angles and multiple opponents, attacks whlie seated or in a car, on varying terrains, from opponents of all sizes--is covered and the instructors do a great job of including the techniques YOU want to cover. And besides being informative, the classes are a great workout and just plain fun.I traveled to Africa recently and the instructors dedicated an entire class to going over anything I needed to know to be able to defend myself overseas. This included equipping me with a small flashlight that I could use in multiple ways as a weapon, as well as ensuring I knew how to use it well before I left. They also let me choose the techniques to work on during the class so I could feel as confident and ready as possible. This is just one example of how the instructors go above and beyond, because they truly care!I would highly recommend this school for ANYONE, from someone just wanting to feel safe in any environment to those wanting to learn and practice combat wrestling or weapon skills.

I began training with Edwin over a year ago in PTK. I have truly enjoyed every class I go to. Edwin is very knowledgeable in what he teaches and is very patient with me. When I have trouble picking something up, he breaks it down in smaller steps and will work with me until I get it. I really appreciate that because I have been to other places that seem more interested in getting thru what they want to teach instead of ensuring the students learn the moves. I have learned a lot since I started and look forward to each class. Thank you Sir for training me.

Great place to learn how to defend yourself.

I literally drive 100 miles round trip to attend class at Texas Defense Academy!I came to TDA and the 1st PTK-SMF class as a guy in his mid-40’s, with no prior martial arts experience, and left-handed, (PTK-SMF works both side/hands, though it’s primarily taught right-handed). Edwin and Michael do a phenomenal job of instructing this very technical and devastatingly effective combat martial art. There are no inflated egos so questions are welcomed and they unpack every move and explain “the why” which cements the lesson and positions you for success.This approach to training reflects the overall culture at TDA that also translates to the other students. There’s such camaraderie among us fellow students who are happy to help each other keep our forms and technique clean and intense!If you’ve done any research into martial arts you’ve heard about how “practical” one martial art is versus the other. PTK-SMF is official martial arts combat system of the Philippine Marine Corps and is used on the battlefield today! So I would advise anyone looking to learn a proven combat system to come check out a class!

I have been training at the Texas Defense Academy for about a year and a half, now. I was initially drawn to the Combat Submission Wrestling (CSW) program, as they are the only affiliate school in the DFW area. My former school had closed, and I was looking for a new place to train and develop new skill sets.I am always hesitant to attend new schools....I have been to some that have a throw you to the wolves mentality, and I have been to schools where I was essentially a punching bag for the black belts in the class. I also despise the egos you encounter in some martial arts schools, so I am very cautious before laying down my money for training.All this to say that if you are anything like me, you will find the Texas Defense Academy to be NOTHING like those types of schools. From the first day, Edwin, Bryan, Michael and Terry made me feel very welcome. There are absolutely no egos among the trainers or the students. Everyone is there to learn, and to have a good time doing it. Some of my training partners have become very good friends to me, as have the instructors themselves.As for the CSW program itself, I can absolutely say that the training does not disappoint. The program is top-notch, and I have learned a great deal about grappling in the last year and a half. I enjoy the fact that the program is street oriented....while it can certainly be modified or used for competition, the FOCUS at the TDA is on using your skills in a real-life, violent encounter. Since coming on board, I have also added Pekiti Tersia Kali to my training schedule, which is another system I have always wanted to study, due to the focus on blade work.Regardless of your reason for being there, or the type of training you are seeking, there is likely a program for you at the TDA. The B3 class is very popular, with a great emphasis on close quarter striking. CSW is an excellent grappling program, and PTK-SMF is a premier weapons art. Also, Bryan runs a great fitness class twice a week, and will be happy to make you sweat and burn off some calories if thats what you would like to focus on.Lastly, I have been exposed to a lot of different schools over the years. The TDA is the one that has provided me the best opportunity to train real world skills, with like minded people, in a positive environment. I would not have stayed had it been otherwise, and I encourage you to check it out

I came across Texas Defense Academy (TDA) by way of YouTube and web searches. I live 150 miles away, so regular attendance really isnt an option for me. However, I reached out to them over social media because they offer some interesting approaches. I was mainly interested in the Ballistic 3 program because it seemed to offer some practical self defense options that interested me. I found friendly and welcoming replies to my questions. I had made up my mind to attend a weekend seminar the first opportunity I had.I write this after just returning from a Saturday introductory seminar on Pekiti Tirsia Kali offered by TDA. The seminar was run by Edwin Rodriguez, one of TDAs followers of the Tim Waids PTK-SMF program. Was a great experience. The information was well presented. The training allowed everyone a chance to learn some good foundational concepts and drills in a safe, friendly environment.Im definitely looking forward for a future chance to train with the folks at TDA again.

If you are looking for a bridge to learn self defense, TDA is the place to be. For me, the fresh approach to MMA and their style is huge improvement to what I seem and done before. In an effort to untangle itself from karate, mma and jujitsu, TDA force you to think outside the box with self defenses tactics that you really can use in a real world situation. TDA instructors theyre knowledgeable and they really know their products turn-by-turn, the view of TDA is to teach the average Joe to become TOPS predator not the pray with intense hands on training that is second to none. So if you want to learn or are serious about learning self defense that make a difference go to TDA.

I enjoyed the introductory seminar, great visit!