We were first introduced to Guard Up by Mary Richardson on Chronicle.  We thought it sounded like fun.  Every year we give our children a choice between a friend birthday party or a family adventure.  The adventure is full of surprises.  We have done quite a bit during these adventures ranging from museums, go carting, historic tours, laser tag, etc.
 
On Saturday, we took our now 9 year old on his adventure day which included the Jordan’s trapeze.  After which, we came to Guard up.  Julie met us with a kind way and was very patient while we all found and put on the right equipment.  She gave us a quick and thorough fencing overview.  We were a group ranging in ages from 42 to 5. We all grasped the concept quickly under her instruction.  She then indulged us in all of our shenanigans.  She had to step in quite often and settle our disputes over who was touched first.  We had the best time! My husband thinks it is better than family therapy.  He is thinking of investing in all of the gear for the back yard. 
 
Thank you for  arranging this private session.  We will recommend it to any and everyone.  My husband is thinking of calling you at a future date for a company event. 
 
Best Regards,
The Doyle Family

“It has gotten Jay excited about doing something physical again. It has given him a goal to work toward and also has been a fun social experience.”

“Guard Up’s facility is also a big, fantastic place and at a great location (right next to the Mall!). My mom loves it because she can hang out in the nice lobby and watch me train through the big windows, or she can go shopping. The instructors are so helpful and approachable; they really want the students to learn concentration, strength and speed.”

“Brendan has never stuck with any activity longer than the ACE class before… so you must be doing something right.”

“Fencing is the only activity that Christina has stayed with. [The instructors] are patient and nice. Guard Up has also been very accommodating with the schedule.”

“Before I started training in fencing and foam weapons, I did not really have much self confidence, and I was looked down on by a lot of people. Nowadays, however, I am revered among my peers as a sort of gentlemen, simply because I fence, and it’s nice to no longer have some certain ruffians on my chest anymore.”

“The instructor listens to the students… is very positive, and play’s a lot of games, and can turn everything into a game, which is more fun than just drilling.”

“(At Guard Up) I found a wonderful, total body and mind, unique way of getting exercise. Guard Up has really good instructors because they are patient and explain things well. They give visuals and why things work.”

“Beth and Teddy adore the classes and it feels like they’ve died and gone to heaven.”

“Eric has tried fencing and other sports but wasn’t coordinated enough so he loves the ACE class because his movements don’t have to be so precise. His upper body strength and confidence have improved because of the class. I think the instructor is great because he’s creative and inspires and engages the kids.”

“The personal connection my son has developed with his [Guard Up] teachers has fostered his self-confidence which in turn has generated a true desire to learn and develop his fencing skills.”

All of my children have taken classes at Guard Up and loved the experience. The group of homeschoolers we join weekly to participate in these swordsmanship classes all have told me that each week their children can’t wait for the next class. My boys aren’t interested in taking any other organized classes and several of their friends too, have said they are only interested in classes offered at Guard Up. The place is warm and inviting, and the instructors are terrific! They really know how to play with the kids and teach them through interactive games that thoroughly engage their minds and bodies. The exercise they get is a big part of why we sign up every winter. These kids are getting an hour or more of intense cardiovascular exercise, the instructors keep them running nonstop, and they love it! Thank you Guard Up!”

“Most people think we’re crazy for driving so far, but I explain to them that you guys are the only place around that take kids that young and that Dana loves it and is having a ball!”

“The Leadership Program is a great opportunity for Andrew, even though he is young. Guard Up is very well priced, very kind and courteous. More places should be like you.”

It’s so great to have a place that is equally fun, safe, and responsible with the kids.”

“You bring out the best in all kids.”

I have to admit that I was a little nervous about all this swordfighting at first – was this experience going to make my daughter overly aggressive? Was she going to come home covered with bruises? But I was very relieved and pleased with how it went. Staff were very clear with campers about appropriate and inappropriate sparring, campers were well supervised, and the rule against striking in anger was very strictly enforced. My daughter had a wonderful time and can’t wait to return!