Business Details
24 Years
experience
Empowering Families Through Martial Arts & Self-Defense in Billings
Shepherd-Warrior Martial Arts has been empowering families in Billings since 2002, offering comprehensive martial arts and self-defense training for ages 5 and up. Our programs integrate physical skill development with Christian character-building principles, creating a unique environment where confidence, discipline, and fitness flourish. With over two decades of experience, our certified instructors combine techniques from Taekwondo, Kung Fu, Ju Jitsu, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and Krav Maga to deliver well-rounded training. We prioritize individual attention through small-group instruction, ensuring each student masters concepts before progressing. Our family-friendly approach fosters intergenerational bonds while teaching practical self-defense skills and biblical values.The Satori Alliance-certified team maintains rigorous professional standards while emphasizing accessibility for all skill levels. Through structured curricula for juniors, warriors, and adults, we help students achieve measurable improvements in focus, respect, and physical capability. Our facility at Albertsons Shopping Center provides a welcoming space where over 65 five-star reviews confirm our commitment to quality instruction and character development. We offer flexible scheduling, including specialized programs for homeschool groups and community self-defense seminars.
Services
Juniors Martial Arts
Warriors Martial Arts
Krav Maga
FAST Defense Seminars
Birthday Parties
Details
- Year established: 2002
Highlights and features
- Certified instructors with 15+ years of martial arts expertise
- Biblical character development integrated with physical training
- Family-friendly environment fostering intergenerational growth
- Proven results in improved focus and confidence for students
- Combines 5 martial arts systems for comprehensive training
Associations and certifications
- Satori Alliance
What people say
Loves his classes
Improvement in focus
Teachers are patient
Family has grown
Amazing staff
Services
Juniors Martial Arts
Structured martial arts training for ages 5-8 combines physical skill development with character-building lessons. Our small-group instruction ensures personalized attention while teaching hand-eye coordination, motor skills, and non-violent conflict resolution. Biblical values reinforce respect and discipline through interactive lessons that prepare children for academic and life success. The program balances fun activities with measurable skill progression.
Warriors Martial Arts
Martial arts instruction for ages 9-13 focuses on stress management and life skill development through physical training. Classes emphasize dedication, maturity, and good judgment while improving physical fitness and self-defense capabilities. Age-appropriate curriculum builds leadership qualities and peer relationships through structured challenges that reinforce positive decision-making and personal responsibility.
Krav Maga
Israeli military-developed self-defense system teaches practical techniques for real-world scenarios. This high-intensity workout builds physical strength while training mental resilience against various threats. Classes accommodate all experience levels, focusing on instinctive movements that empower individuals of any size or strength to protect themselves effectively in stressful situations.
FAST Defense Seminars
Condensed self-defense training sessions designed for busy schedules teach essential protection techniques and stress management strategies. These 2-3 hour seminars combine physical skill practice with emotional preparedness training, offering practical tools for personal safety in high-pressure situations while maintaining accessibility for complete beginners.
Birthday Parties
Themed martial arts birthday events include instructor-led games, basic technique instruction, and age-appropriate physical activities. Packages feature venue setup/cleanup, pizza, drinks, and supervised martial arts demonstrations that introduce guests to self-defense basics while creating memorable celebrations for children aged 5-13.
People
Dennis Forleo
Sr. Master Instructor
With martial arts experience since 1985 and 7th degree black belt certifications across multiple disciplines, Master Forleo supervises all instruction at SWMA. He opened the school in 2002 and continues teaching while maintaining professional development through the Satori Alliance.
Kae Forleo
Associate Master
Beginning training at age 4, Kae achieved 4th degree black belt in Chi-Tu Do and now leads advanced classes. His unique perspective from progressing through all program levels informs his engaging teaching style for older students.
Mrs. Dunaway
Krav Maga Instructor
With over a decade of teaching experience, Mrs. Dunaway specializes in junior martial arts and adult Krav Maga. She leads monthly community self-defense classes while integrating biblical character lessons into children's programs.
Master Lewis
Eskrima Instructor
A former Marine Corps officer with 15 years martial arts experience, Master Lewis teaches advanced Eskrima and black belt classes. His military background enhances practical self-defense instruction while maintaining traditional discipline.
Mr. Fry
Warrior Program Lead
With Taekwondo background and progressive leadership since 2016, Mr. Fry manages colored belt classes for warriors. His teaching emphasizes structured discipline while maintaining engagement with large groups of students.
Questions
What martial arts styles do you teach?
We combine techniques from Taekwondo, Kung Fu, Ju Jitsu, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and Krav Maga in our age-specific programs.
What age groups do you accept?
We offer programs for juniors (5-8), warriors (9-13), and adults (14+), with specialized birthday events for children.
What should I expect at my first class?
Arrive at your scheduled time, complete paperwork, receive uniform fitting, then join the group class with a free introductory lesson.
Do you offer family discounts?
While we don't advertise specific family discounts, our 4-week starter membership provides an affordable entry point for multiple family members.
How does self-defense training benefit children?
Our programs improve confidence, focus, and discipline while teaching practical safety skills and non-violent conflict resolution.
Are there performance requirements?
Students progress at their own pace through belt ranks, with regular testing opportunities to demonstrate skill mastery and character development.
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