A Lifetime of Study: Why I Teach the Way I Do

Why Train Here?

• Awareness before conflict
• De-escalation before force
• Leverage over strength
• Pressure-tested movement
• Authentic Japanese Ninpo adapted for today’s world
• Beginner-friendly, no ego
• Taught by an experienced educator
• Over 30 years of martial arts experience
• Training lineage through Mark Davis and Stephen K. Hayes
• Suitable regardless of age, size, or athletic ability
• Practical rather than competitive

Learn the Skills That Matter Before You Need Them

Most people think self-defense begins with a punch.

We believe it begins much earlier.

It begins with awareness.

It grows through confidence.

It relies on good judgment, positioning, communication, and calm decision-making.

Physical techniques are important—but they’re only one part of staying safe.

That philosophy is at the heart of everything we teach.

Our training reflects the practical evolution of Japanese Ninpo championed by Stephen K. Hayes and passed to instructor Andrew Laurie through his longtime teacher, Mark Davis. Rather than preparing students for tournaments, we focus on awareness, prevention, de-escalation, and effective self-protection for everyday life.

Come and see what this actually feels like!

Have a question?

Not sure which class is right for you?

Wondering if this training is appropriate for your age, fitness level, or previous experience? Send me a message. I’m happy to talk with you before you come in.

South County Self-Protection

30 St Dominic Rd, South Kingstown, RI, USA

401-932-8002 / southcountyselfprotection@gmail.com

Hours

Today

By Appointment

TRAINING SCHEDULE

MONDAY — SOUTH KINGSTOWN
6:30 PM
South Kingstown Recreation Center

WEDNESDAY — CRANSTON
4:00 PM
Meshanticut Park

ELEVATE DOJO — EXETER
Private / appointment

Videos of some basic ideas to get started

Our stance communicates something important: we’re not looking for a fight

Even before physical contact, posture and positioning can influence how a situation develops.

How Smaller People Generate Real Power

Taijutsu gives us ways to use natural body movement, structure, and timing rather than relying entirely on muscular strength. This video gives you a simple example of that idea.

Protect Yourself Without Relying on Strength

Strength can certainly be useful, but it shouldn’t be the foundation of self-protection. We practice movement, positioning, timing, and structure so that technique can do more of the work.

Jesse Enkamp is a solid outside perspective

Jesse approaches the subject with curiosity and respect. This video offers a good introduction to some of the ideas behind our art.

Sensei Seth learns Taijutsu from Hardee Merritt

Sensei Seth takes an honest look at American Ninpo Taijutsu while training with Hardee Merritt.

Kevin Lee learns from Sentoshi Russo

Mark Sentoshi Russo shares some of his approach to Ninpo Taijutsu with Kevin Lee.

Stephen K. Hayes — Pioneer of American Ninpo

Stephen K. Hayes has been a profound influence on South County Self-Protection. In this video, he discusses the basic intent and philosophy of the art with Todd Norcross.

Stephen K. Hayes spent decades studying in Japan before introducing authentic Japanese Ninpo to the West. Rather than preserving it only as a historical martial art, he emphasized adapting its principles to the realities faced by modern civilians, law enforcement, and military professionals. That practical mindset continues to shape how we teach today.

Build Confidence. Learn Practical Self-Protection. Train for Life.

Why Train Here?

Most people think self-defense begins with a punch.

Families only pay for two members; the rest train free. Book your Free Intro Class Now

Families only pay for two members; the rest train free. Book your Free Intro Class Now

Families only pay for two members; the rest train free. Book your Free Intro Class Now

Families only pay for two members; the rest train free. Book your Free Intro Class Now

Families only pay for two members; the rest train free. Book your Free Intro Class Now

Families only pay for two members; the rest train free. Book your Free Intro Class Now

Real stories from our students

Meet our Instructor

Andrew Laurie

The goal isn’t to win fights. It’s to go home safely.