ARX isn’t your typical self-defense program. We’re not here to turn you into a fighter—we’re here to help you feel safe, stay aware, and protect the people around you.
Whether you're walking home at night, navigating tough situations at work, or showing up for your community, you deserve real tools—not just techniques—to face the world with confidence.
You’ve ever felt unsafe in your own skin or space
You want to learn how to protect yourself
You care about your community and want to be a resource, not just a bystander
You’ve avoided traditional self-defense or martial arts spaces because they didn’t feel welcoming
You want a space that values growth, compassion, and power—not posturing
ARX—Active Response Crosstraining—is a community-centered safety and self-protection training initiative developed by David Mitchell, a certified instructor with the Civilian Tactical Training Association (CTTA). This isn’t one-size-fits-all training. ARX blends martial arts fundamentals with a comprehensive, trauma-informed approach to real-world safety. You’ll learn how to:
Spot and avoid danger with strong situational awareness
De-escalate conflict using verbal and nonverbal communication
Understand your rights and responsibilities through legal self-defense education
Defend yourself and others with reasonable force and practical techniques
Keep your family and community members safe, whether at home or in public
Build confidence, resilience, and connection—not fear
The name ARX was inspired by my background as a student of the Latin language. Meaning 'stronghold, citadel, refuge,' it seemed like the ideal term for the community-oriented program I wanted to build.
✅ Inclusive & Trauma-Informed
We recognize that everyone comes with different experiences and boundaries. Our instructors create a respectful, affirming environment where all bodies, identities, and backgrounds are honored.
✅ Community Over Competition
This is not about who hits harder. It’s about building trust, confidence, and mutual responsibility. We train together to grow together.
✅ Customizable & Real-World Focused
Workshops are designed around your lived experiences and your needs. Whether you're preparing for street safety, workplace risks, or protecting loved ones, the training adapts to you—not the other way around.
✅ Rooted in Real Skills
ARX combines principles from the CTTA system, including integrated firearms training, practical grappling, family protection strategies, and more—taught accessibly, clearly, and responsibly.
"There's something truly magical about Sifu Mitchell, in his ability to hold space, to maintain complete professionalism, and to meet a person exactly where they are and customize training to their needs."
~ Jen Butler, content creator
We partner with:
🏳️🌈 LGBTQ+ advocacy groups
🏫 Schools and youth centers
🏘️ Neighborhood watch and mutual aid networks
🏢 Workplaces and DEI teams
🛐 Faith-based and cultural organizations
Let’s build something stronger together.
You just need the right mindset, skills, and support.
ARX is here to give you all three.
👊 Learn. Grow. Protect. Together.
Questions? Ready to book? Want to know more? Reach out today—let’s talk.