"When I was seventeen I was sexually assaulted. A man broke into the room that my sister
and I were sleeping in and tried to force me into a very uncomfortable situation. It was dark, I
had just been asleep, and I had no idea if my sister was OK and still next to me, but I didn't
react right away. Finally, I got to the point of being scared and I kicked him across the room. I
should not have waited until I was scared to do something, I should have had the confidence
to take care of myself and my sister right away.
After taking only 3 sessions of the SHIELDS Women's Self-Defense classes, I now have that
confidence. I know how to get away from a guy who's choking me, pinned me to the ground,
grabbed me from behind, or has a hold of my hair. Without this class I wouldn't know that I
shouldn't punch a guy who is attacking me, nor would I know that it is actually better for me to
be closer to him than farther away. If nothing else, every woman should know the basics in
self-defense. You never have any idea what might happen to you while you are walking to
your car or into your apartment."
Ashley M.
President
Panhellenic Council
University of Southern California (USC)
Well you are officially the ladies' favorite instructor EVER! They could not stop talking about
you and everything they learned during your workshop. Thank you for joining us and for doing
such an incredible job during the sessions. WHAT AN INCREDIBLE EXPERIENCE! It is life-
changing for them! They feel empowered, confident, strong and excited with their new
training.
We will MOST DEFINITELY be having you back and I am sure that a handful of students will be
in touch for your 5-week course. Please review the Home game schedule for UCLA Football
and the Rose Bowl--we would LOVE to have you join us!
Thank you, thank you, thank you!
GO BRUINS!
Mollie V.
UCLA Spirit Director
UCLA Spirit Squad (Cheer Squad, Dance Team & Yell Crew)
University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
"The Self Defense demonstration was extremely useful with the simple methods for women to
use to effectively defend themselves against a sexual assault or an attack. The visual
presentation was educational in the fundamental ideals of awareness for individuals to be
aware of their surroundings, prevention of a dangerous situation, reduction and avoidance of
personal risks. Hard hitting physical techniques which are simple in design yet powerful in
delivery were presented by skilled instructor Nelson Nio. Real life scenarios provided for
each technique showed the relevance of their impact. We intend to continue to provide this
valuable instruction in the near future."
Olivia R.
Executive Director
LA Co Board of Supervisors Domestic Violence Council
"The SHIELD Self-Defense program helps women protect AND empower themselves by
teaching skills that help keep women safe in everyday situations. Nelson is an attentive
instructor who focuses on the individual strengths and needs of each student. He is
committed to empowering women with the Shield program and beyond."
Lindsey H.
President
National Organization for Women (NOW) - Hollywood Chapter
"With the terrible statistics documenting the epidemic of violence against women, it is more
important than ever for women to become empowered to take an active role in their own
safety. Learning self-defense skills is vital. Nelson provides a valuable service to the
community of women by presenting an excellent interactive demonstration of basic
techniques. His manner is very personable and professional and the 45 minute lunchtime
class is highly popular - one attendee described it as... awesome!"
Jessica S.
L.A. County Office of Women's Health
Department of Public Health
"Nelson is passionate, dedicated, and extremely powerful speaker and teacher. His style will
easily put even the most difficult students at ease. It has been an honor and pleasure working
with such a fine man."
Robin Sax
LA County Deputy District Attorney
Legal Commentator and Analyst for CNN, Professor and Speaker
"I loved every minute of my class with Nelson Nio on self defense... I would recommend this to
all female employees and kudos to Fox for making the class available to us on the lot. I would
even take it a second time as a refresher. This is really a gift from FOX to its employees. Many
thanks!"
Suzanne W.
FOX Studios
Nelson is the ultimate professional - an expert in his field, organized and well-respected in his
field."
Paul D.
Executive Director, Institute for Excellence in Teaching and Learning
Woodbury University
"Nelson Nio was always accessible, organized and responded to our company's requests in a
very timely and professional manner. He helped us to stay on budget and to achieve several
company goals and objectives. I would highly recommend Nelson to lead and manage a
project for us or another client in the future."
Marc K.
Executive in Charge of Production
America's Most Wanted TV Show
"Nelson, on behalf of the East Los Angeles College Violence Prevention Team, I would like to
thank you for coming to our campus to provide the excellent self-defense demonstration to
our students. It was fun and interactive, and our students were really excited to share what
they've learned with their friends. I will follow up with my team regarding the possibility of
having you teach a more ongoing course."
Tiffany R.
Violence Prevention Team
East Los Angeles College
"Nelson is astounding in his integrity and commitment to teaching women how to take better
care of themselves through self defense. When asking us to do physical things in class that
look daunting...or impossible...the words "I can't" never came out of any of our mouths.
Nelson instilled trust that he knows how far each of us can go and he lived up to all of my
expectations. In his amazing way of teaching, he led me to discover how amazing I AM! From
Nelson's Shield training, I now have a much better feel of what is going on around me and I am
much more confident. He taught me how to link to my Energy on several levels, and then add
his techniques. This brings me a constant flow of Energy, Confidence, and Fearlessness. In
class, he is a fierce opponent, as he knows an opponent on the street will be just as fierce.
Yet he also brings compassion and understanding to each of us and works us as a class and
individually on our own specific levels. I HIGHLY recommend him!!!!"
Kathie B.
FOX Studios
"Nelson Nio is a dedicated professional who has a passion for training women to protect
themselves against abuse, rape and other crimes. His passion and energies are brought into
the self-defense training he provides - making them fun, informative and most of all, useful in
self protection. I have had the privilege of having Nelson and SHIELD Self-Defense at my
organization on several different occasions providing training to staff and clients. I
recommend Nelson to anyone wanting professional self-defense instructor. He is caring and
his trainings are fun!"
Dr. Kathie Mathis
CEO - Mathis & Associates
National Domestic Violence Expert
"I wasn't expecting the class to be such a workout, but I really enjoyed it. We started by
meditating to relax and to clear our minds. Then we practiced stances that kept us balanced
and grounded. We learned how to switch our footing and move forward and backward quickly
without losing our balance. Next, we practiced elbow strikes...Then we added a knee kick to
the elbow strikes... The last part of class included learning how to get out of a choke hold and
a wrist grab. This was my favorite part of the class because I felt I was learning something
extremely useful... I learned that as a woman, I shouldn't be afraid to hurt someone in order to
protect myself. I also learned that my voice can be just as powerful as my body. I felt
empowered after class and I am excited for next week. I told my friends all about the moves I
learned and how fun it was. Even though my muscles were sore after class, I expect to be
more self confident and to feel more powerful after these seven weeks are over."
Yvette (Woodbury University)
"Right from the first class, we were immersed in drills that gave us first hand experience
about what it was like to be jolted (off balance) and attacked. No part of our bodies was safe;
throat, hair, sneak attacks from behind, being lifted off the ground. All of these scenarios
sound terrifying. Yet Nelson helped us to experience and free ourselves from discomfort and
anxiety. This went far beyond mental preparation. My body quickly adapted to aggressive
physical contact, and instinctively “knew” how react in order to defend and free myself. And
how to turn the tables on an attacker. No situation left me frozen in fear or pain. This was
remarkable feeling for me!
I have been urging friends to take this incredible course. The moves are so basic, so easy.
This is the only self defense course that has been so liberating for me. Nelson deserves
great praise for his simple, enlightening techniques. This man is a master of self defense.
And we are blessed that he has taken the time and shown such compassion to reach out to
women like myself. Thank you for being such an excellent teacher."
Kristen D. (FOX Entertainment Group)
"Thank you for bringing this workshop to us, it was very informative. I would definitely be
interested in participating in any future Self Defense classes; Mr. Nio’s training was very
realist which is exactly what I was hoping to experience today."
Yolanda V. (Office of Supervisor Zev Yaroslavsky)
"The class was very interesting and informative. I would love to attend more classes early
next year. Mr. Nio was a great instructor and held everyone attention during the entire class.
Great job Women's Self Defense Workshop!"
Jessie R. (LA County Board of Supervisors employee)
"Nelson is a great asset to us here at 20th Century FOX. He kindly and respectfully taught us
powerful self defense techniques. He is a dedicated and patient teacher who gets right to the
core of what you need to know to level the playing field. He teaches powerful techniques that
every woman should be aware of. I am a student of Kung Fu and I learned more about self
defense in Nelson's class than I did in my years of Kung Fu training. His techniques are
practical, to the point and are taught in a supportive environment. Nelson is a treasure."
Barbara B. (FOX Studios)
"I believe this class is invaluable for women. Nelson’s style of teaching is fun and thorough.
He provides a safe environment, gives individual attention to each student and he’s always
open to questions. I will be recommending this class highly to all my friends and colleagues."
Susan A. (FOX Studios)
"My first class was a total workout. I never expected it to be like that. I thought we were gonna
yell NO!!!, and learn a couple of different ways to fight. Including kicking of the crotch, and
other typical things you think of when you are attacked by a man. I'm very glad it's not like that.
The class surprised me when we learned very different ways to defend and fight... I was
definitely sweating like I was working out. I know my classmates were feeling the same way.
What we learned was how to defend ourselves in close situations and how to hurt someone
when they are attacking you in a close range.... from the first class I at least know some things
I would have never known otherwise. It is such a scary topic but its something that every
woman should know. Women should be more open to take this class because it could help
them in a tough situation."
Debbie (Woodbury University)
"I want to thank you for giving of your time to teach and inspire our women. They truly, truly
enjoyed the class. I showed some pictures and short clips at church today. I hope we can
touch base to see what we may be able to do, especially with the youth in the area."
Domingo (Winds of Hope Ministries)
"I would like to say thank you very much for the training you provided for us on Sat at All
Saints. I think I speak for all the women in saying that you were very informative and tought us
well. The course that you taught and the way that you taught it was very well done. I
appreciated you taking your time for us. Thank you and look forward to seeing you again."
Danielle (All Saint Church)
"I just wanted to thank you for one of the most empowering days of my life. Thank you so
much for what you do to protect women and young girls. May God bless you and all of your
endeavors."
Vivian (All Saint Church)
"You have a very gentle touch and yet the lessons are about as real and tough as can be!"
Lynn (FOX Studios)
"Participants and our staff were very pleased with the way you presented the class.
We are most definitely having you back. I am pushing so that we can have you two days
instead of one, I don’t think it will be a problem. Thank you again for coming!"
Dalia (Amanecer Community Counseling Services)
"What you're teaching is so useful, especially when I am in the plane. If attacks are to occur
they will be in close quarters. What I'm learning from you is perfect! I had lots of fun! Thank
you."
Sally (Flight Attendant - TWA)
"Thank you for working with us and for providing this fantastic information! A very
empowering course."
Maureen (Pepperdine School of Law)
and I were sleeping in and tried to force me into a very uncomfortable situation. It was dark, I
had just been asleep, and I had no idea if my sister was OK and still next to me, but I didn't
react right away. Finally, I got to the point of being scared and I kicked him across the room. I
should not have waited until I was scared to do something, I should have had the confidence
to take care of myself and my sister right away.
After taking only 3 sessions of the SHIELDS Women's Self-Defense classes, I now have that
confidence. I know how to get away from a guy who's choking me, pinned me to the ground,
grabbed me from behind, or has a hold of my hair. Without this class I wouldn't know that I
shouldn't punch a guy who is attacking me, nor would I know that it is actually better for me to
be closer to him than farther away. If nothing else, every woman should know the basics in
self-defense. You never have any idea what might happen to you while you are walking to
your car or into your apartment."
Ashley M.
President
Panhellenic Council
University of Southern California (USC)
Well you are officially the ladies' favorite instructor EVER! They could not stop talking about
you and everything they learned during your workshop. Thank you for joining us and for doing
such an incredible job during the sessions. WHAT AN INCREDIBLE EXPERIENCE! It is life-
changing for them! They feel empowered, confident, strong and excited with their new
training.
We will MOST DEFINITELY be having you back and I am sure that a handful of students will be
in touch for your 5-week course. Please review the Home game schedule for UCLA Football
and the Rose Bowl--we would LOVE to have you join us!
Thank you, thank you, thank you!
GO BRUINS!
Mollie V.
UCLA Spirit Director
UCLA Spirit Squad (Cheer Squad, Dance Team & Yell Crew)
University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
"The Self Defense demonstration was extremely useful with the simple methods for women to
use to effectively defend themselves against a sexual assault or an attack. The visual
presentation was educational in the fundamental ideals of awareness for individuals to be
aware of their surroundings, prevention of a dangerous situation, reduction and avoidance of
personal risks. Hard hitting physical techniques which are simple in design yet powerful in
delivery were presented by skilled instructor Nelson Nio. Real life scenarios provided for
each technique showed the relevance of their impact. We intend to continue to provide this
valuable instruction in the near future."
Olivia R.
Executive Director
LA Co Board of Supervisors Domestic Violence Council
"The SHIELD Self-Defense program helps women protect AND empower themselves by
teaching skills that help keep women safe in everyday situations. Nelson is an attentive
instructor who focuses on the individual strengths and needs of each student. He is
committed to empowering women with the Shield program and beyond."
Lindsey H.
President
National Organization for Women (NOW) - Hollywood Chapter
"With the terrible statistics documenting the epidemic of violence against women, it is more
important than ever for women to become empowered to take an active role in their own
safety. Learning self-defense skills is vital. Nelson provides a valuable service to the
community of women by presenting an excellent interactive demonstration of basic
techniques. His manner is very personable and professional and the 45 minute lunchtime
class is highly popular - one attendee described it as... awesome!"
Jessica S.
L.A. County Office of Women's Health
Department of Public Health
"Nelson is passionate, dedicated, and extremely powerful speaker and teacher. His style will
easily put even the most difficult students at ease. It has been an honor and pleasure working
with such a fine man."
Robin Sax
LA County Deputy District Attorney
Legal Commentator and Analyst for CNN, Professor and Speaker
"I loved every minute of my class with Nelson Nio on self defense... I would recommend this to
all female employees and kudos to Fox for making the class available to us on the lot. I would
even take it a second time as a refresher. This is really a gift from FOX to its employees. Many
thanks!"
Suzanne W.
FOX Studios
Nelson is the ultimate professional - an expert in his field, organized and well-respected in his
field."
Paul D.
Executive Director, Institute for Excellence in Teaching and Learning
Woodbury University
"Nelson Nio was always accessible, organized and responded to our company's requests in a
very timely and professional manner. He helped us to stay on budget and to achieve several
company goals and objectives. I would highly recommend Nelson to lead and manage a
project for us or another client in the future."
Marc K.
Executive in Charge of Production
America's Most Wanted TV Show
"Nelson, on behalf of the East Los Angeles College Violence Prevention Team, I would like to
thank you for coming to our campus to provide the excellent self-defense demonstration to
our students. It was fun and interactive, and our students were really excited to share what
they've learned with their friends. I will follow up with my team regarding the possibility of
having you teach a more ongoing course."
Tiffany R.
Violence Prevention Team
East Los Angeles College
"Nelson is astounding in his integrity and commitment to teaching women how to take better
care of themselves through self defense. When asking us to do physical things in class that
look daunting...or impossible...the words "I can't" never came out of any of our mouths.
Nelson instilled trust that he knows how far each of us can go and he lived up to all of my
expectations. In his amazing way of teaching, he led me to discover how amazing I AM! From
Nelson's Shield training, I now have a much better feel of what is going on around me and I am
much more confident. He taught me how to link to my Energy on several levels, and then add
his techniques. This brings me a constant flow of Energy, Confidence, and Fearlessness. In
class, he is a fierce opponent, as he knows an opponent on the street will be just as fierce.
Yet he also brings compassion and understanding to each of us and works us as a class and
individually on our own specific levels. I HIGHLY recommend him!!!!"
Kathie B.
FOX Studios
"Nelson Nio is a dedicated professional who has a passion for training women to protect
themselves against abuse, rape and other crimes. His passion and energies are brought into
the self-defense training he provides - making them fun, informative and most of all, useful in
self protection. I have had the privilege of having Nelson and SHIELD Self-Defense at my
organization on several different occasions providing training to staff and clients. I
recommend Nelson to anyone wanting professional self-defense instructor. He is caring and
his trainings are fun!"
Dr. Kathie Mathis
CEO - Mathis & Associates
National Domestic Violence Expert
"I wasn't expecting the class to be such a workout, but I really enjoyed it. We started by
meditating to relax and to clear our minds. Then we practiced stances that kept us balanced
and grounded. We learned how to switch our footing and move forward and backward quickly
without losing our balance. Next, we practiced elbow strikes...Then we added a knee kick to
the elbow strikes... The last part of class included learning how to get out of a choke hold and
a wrist grab. This was my favorite part of the class because I felt I was learning something
extremely useful... I learned that as a woman, I shouldn't be afraid to hurt someone in order to
protect myself. I also learned that my voice can be just as powerful as my body. I felt
empowered after class and I am excited for next week. I told my friends all about the moves I
learned and how fun it was. Even though my muscles were sore after class, I expect to be
more self confident and to feel more powerful after these seven weeks are over."
Yvette (Woodbury University)
"Right from the first class, we were immersed in drills that gave us first hand experience
about what it was like to be jolted (off balance) and attacked. No part of our bodies was safe;
throat, hair, sneak attacks from behind, being lifted off the ground. All of these scenarios
sound terrifying. Yet Nelson helped us to experience and free ourselves from discomfort and
anxiety. This went far beyond mental preparation. My body quickly adapted to aggressive
physical contact, and instinctively “knew” how react in order to defend and free myself. And
how to turn the tables on an attacker. No situation left me frozen in fear or pain. This was
remarkable feeling for me!
I have been urging friends to take this incredible course. The moves are so basic, so easy.
This is the only self defense course that has been so liberating for me. Nelson deserves
great praise for his simple, enlightening techniques. This man is a master of self defense.
And we are blessed that he has taken the time and shown such compassion to reach out to
women like myself. Thank you for being such an excellent teacher."
Kristen D. (FOX Entertainment Group)
"Thank you for bringing this workshop to us, it was very informative. I would definitely be
interested in participating in any future Self Defense classes; Mr. Nio’s training was very
realist which is exactly what I was hoping to experience today."
Yolanda V. (Office of Supervisor Zev Yaroslavsky)
"The class was very interesting and informative. I would love to attend more classes early
next year. Mr. Nio was a great instructor and held everyone attention during the entire class.
Great job Women's Self Defense Workshop!"
Jessie R. (LA County Board of Supervisors employee)
"Nelson is a great asset to us here at 20th Century FOX. He kindly and respectfully taught us
powerful self defense techniques. He is a dedicated and patient teacher who gets right to the
core of what you need to know to level the playing field. He teaches powerful techniques that
every woman should be aware of. I am a student of Kung Fu and I learned more about self
defense in Nelson's class than I did in my years of Kung Fu training. His techniques are
practical, to the point and are taught in a supportive environment. Nelson is a treasure."
Barbara B. (FOX Studios)
"I believe this class is invaluable for women. Nelson’s style of teaching is fun and thorough.
He provides a safe environment, gives individual attention to each student and he’s always
open to questions. I will be recommending this class highly to all my friends and colleagues."
Susan A. (FOX Studios)
"My first class was a total workout. I never expected it to be like that. I thought we were gonna
yell NO!!!, and learn a couple of different ways to fight. Including kicking of the crotch, and
other typical things you think of when you are attacked by a man. I'm very glad it's not like that.
The class surprised me when we learned very different ways to defend and fight... I was
definitely sweating like I was working out. I know my classmates were feeling the same way.
What we learned was how to defend ourselves in close situations and how to hurt someone
when they are attacking you in a close range.... from the first class I at least know some things
I would have never known otherwise. It is such a scary topic but its something that every
woman should know. Women should be more open to take this class because it could help
them in a tough situation."
Debbie (Woodbury University)
"I want to thank you for giving of your time to teach and inspire our women. They truly, truly
enjoyed the class. I showed some pictures and short clips at church today. I hope we can
touch base to see what we may be able to do, especially with the youth in the area."
Domingo (Winds of Hope Ministries)
"I would like to say thank you very much for the training you provided for us on Sat at All
Saints. I think I speak for all the women in saying that you were very informative and tought us
well. The course that you taught and the way that you taught it was very well done. I
appreciated you taking your time for us. Thank you and look forward to seeing you again."
Danielle (All Saint Church)
"I just wanted to thank you for one of the most empowering days of my life. Thank you so
much for what you do to protect women and young girls. May God bless you and all of your
endeavors."
Vivian (All Saint Church)
"You have a very gentle touch and yet the lessons are about as real and tough as can be!"
Lynn (FOX Studios)
"Participants and our staff were very pleased with the way you presented the class.
We are most definitely having you back. I am pushing so that we can have you two days
instead of one, I don’t think it will be a problem. Thank you again for coming!"
Dalia (Amanecer Community Counseling Services)
"What you're teaching is so useful, especially when I am in the plane. If attacks are to occur
they will be in close quarters. What I'm learning from you is perfect! I had lots of fun! Thank
you."
Sally (Flight Attendant - TWA)
"Thank you for working with us and for providing this fantastic information! A very
empowering course."
Maureen (Pepperdine School of Law)
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Testimonial & Endorsements