Business Details
45 Years
experience
Your Trusted Martial Arts & Wellness Center in South Burlington
Villari's Self Defense Center has been a trusted provider of Shaolin Kempo Karate and Chi Kung training for over 40 years. Founded in 1981 under the guidance of Junidan Laurie Shover, a 12th Degree Master in Shaolin Kempo Karate, we specialize in individualized programs that develop self-awareness, self-assurance, and self-confidence. Our curriculum caters to children, teens, and adults through structured classes, private lessons, and community outreach programs in schools, colleges, and businesses. We emphasize mental resilience and physical wellness, helping students of all ages reduce stress and build confidence. Our experienced instructors, many of whom have trained for decades, foster a safe, inclusive environment where students learn self-defense techniques, discipline, and respect.With satellite locations across Chittenden and Addison Counties, we serve families, professionals, and educators through tailored programs like women's self-defense, teen leadership initiatives, and corporate wellness workshops. Our mission remains rooted in empowering individuals to lead healthier, safer, and more fulfilling lives through martial arts. The foundation of our success lies in our commitment to personalized instruction and community engagement, ensuring every student achieves their full potential.
Services
Shaolin Kempo Karate
Chi Kung Classes
Private Lessons
Self-Defense Courses
Women's Self-Defense
Teen Leadership Programs
Kids Martial Arts
Summer Camps
Competition Team Training
Corporate Wellness Workshops
Details
- Year established: 1981
Highlights and features
- We offer 40+ years of expertise in Shaolin Kempo Karate instruction.
- Our programs are tailored to individual physical capabilities and goals.
- Instructors include a 12th Degree Master with decades of teaching experience.
- We provide community-focused outreach in schools and local organizations.
- Our curriculum emphasizes practical self-defense and mental resilience.
What people say
Increased confidence
Supportive instructors
Family-friendly environment
Effective self-defense skills
Structured progressive training
Services
Shaolin Kempo Karate
Our Shaolin Kempo Karate program teaches traditional techniques blending striking, grappling, and forms to build physical strength, mental focus, and self-defense skills. Students learn discipline through structured belt progression while developing confidence and respect in a supportive environment. This practice benefits individuals of all ages by improving coordination, stress management, and personal safety awareness.
Chi Kung Classes
Chi Kung sessions combine breath control, gentle movements, and meditation to enhance energy flow, reduce stress, and improve overall wellness. These classes promote balance, flexibility, and internal strength through ancient practices rooted in Chinese medicine. Participants gain tools for managing anxiety and boosting vitality through regular practice.
Private Lessons
Customized private lessons offer personalized attention for students seeking accelerated progress or specific skill development. Sessions focus on individual goals, whether mastering techniques, preparing for competitions, or addressing unique learning needs. This format ensures focused instruction tailored to the student's pace and objectives.
Women's Self-Defense
Specialized women's self-defense courses teach practical techniques for real-world scenarios while building situational awareness and assertiveness. Classes address common risks through physical drills and psychological preparation, empowering participants to protect themselves confidently. The program emphasizes de-escalation strategies and boundary-setting in various environments.
Teen Leadership Programs
Teen leadership initiatives combine martial arts training with character development to foster responsibility, teamwork, and confidence. Participants learn conflict resolution, mentorship skills, and community service through structured activities. This program prepares adolescents for academic, personal, and professional challenges through martial arts principles.
People
Junidan Laurie Shover
12th Degree Master in Shaolin Kempo Karate
With nearly 50 years of training and 45 years of teaching experience, Junidan Laurie Shover leads Villari's programs, emphasizing self-confidence and practical self-defense techniques for all ages.
Master Richardson
Instructor
Teaching at Fairfax and Cambridge locations, Master Richardson specializes in adapting martial arts instruction for children and adults through structured, age-appropriate classes.
Master Duffy
Instructor
Leading Charlotte Center School's after-school program, Master Duffy focuses on youth development and community engagement through martial arts education.
Master Taylor
Instructor
Instructor for Richmond and Colchester locations, Master Taylor develops teen/adult classes and leadership programs emphasizing discipline and practical self-defense applications.
Master O'Brien
Instructor
Teaching at the Ferrisburgh location, Master O'Brien specializes in creating engaging martial arts experiences for children and families through structured, progressive training.
Questions
What martial arts styles do you teach?
We specialize in Shaolin Kempo Karate and Chi Kung, offering traditional techniques blended with modern teaching methods for all skill levels.
Are classes available for different age groups?
Yes, we offer age-specific programs for children (4+), teens, and adults, with specialized classes for families and individual training.
Do you offer self-defense training for women?
We provide dedicated women's self-defense courses focusing on practical techniques, situational awareness, and confidence-building in real-world scenarios.
Can I try a class before committing?
We offer introductory sessions and trial classes to help new students experience our programs before enrolling in regular courses.
Are there competition opportunities?
Our competition team participates in regional and international tournaments, with specialized training sessions to prepare students for competitive events.
Do you offer private instruction?
Yes, we provide private lessons tailored to individual goals, including skill refinement, competition preparation, and personalized self-defense training.
