Learn Muay Thai Kickboxing and Krav Maga...
right here in Norwich
"I have been involved in many sports but this really has been great for all around conditioning."
Dr. Steven Green
53 years old
Eastern CT Ear, Nose & Throat, P.C.
"I have been taking martial arts for several years and I have been extremely impressed with what it has done for me. My strength, flexibility and endurance have all significantly improved. I have been involved in many sports but this really has been great for all around conditioning. Learning new physical maneuvers involved in a new form gives a real sense of accomplishment.
Mr. McShane and his staff are experts at what they do and are very understanding and patient teachers. The people that I have met through martial arts have been the best. I look forward to going every week."
Mr. McShane and his staff are experts at what they do and are very understanding and patient teachers. The people that I have met through martial arts have been the best. I look forward to going every week."
Do any of these describe you?
- You want to feel better and get in shape.
- You’ve tried running, the gym, cardio-kickboxing - but you didn’t get the results you wanted and it got boring.
- You were into martial arts as a kid and want to get back to it, but you're not into wearing a baggy, white gi.
- With kids and work, it's hard to find time to get and stay in shape.
- You're serious about learning real self-defense.
- You need to burn off stress.
- New Years Resolutions have NEVER worked out.
- You need a compelling reason to quit bad habits.
- You're sick of the treadmill.
- You're frustrated because exercise has never seemed to work out, and you're still paying for that unused gym membership.
- You need to get around some positive people.
- You just want to have some fun.
- ...and hitting stuff sounds like that kind of fun.
America's Best Defense.
The ABD System combines the best striking techniques from Muay Thai and boxing with battle-tested Krav Maga (Israeli military self-defense) AND fitness principles to give you the best, most interesting workout you've ever experienced. With America's Best Defense, you get:
- ...Krav Maga. As one of the hottest adult martial arts out there, Krav Maga is a modern-day system taken directly from the Israeli military. The techniques of Krav Maga follow Bruce Lee's philosophy: to paraphrase, 'If it works, use it. If it doesn't, lose it.' Krav Maga self-defense is easy for beginners to learn, and uses the body's natural reactions to set up realistic and devastating fighting techniques. If you missed it, Krav Maga was recently featured on the History Channel's 'Human Weapon' series, and 'Fight Quest' on Discovery. Just do a search on youtube for it. It's easy, fun, and IT WORKS.
- ...Muay Thai Kickboxing. This IS NOT CARDIO KICKBOXING! No tights, no aerobics, no bad 135bpm workout music. If you follow Mixed Martial Arts, you've certainly heard of Muay Thai, Thailand's cultural kickboxing system. For striking, Muay Thai is one of the most effective systems available, and has gotten extremely popular in America over the last 5 years. Using the body's 8 major weapons (both hands, elbows, knees, and feet), Muay Thai's strikes are legendary. With America's Best Defense, you get the best of Muay Thai without ever having to get in the ring.
- ... An Effective, Full-Body Workout that will leave you feeling accomplished, after every class. ABD improves flexibility, tone, endurance, and energy, and burns up to 900 calories per hour. It's not uncommon for students to lose 10lbs. in their first month. Some have lost as much as 50lbs in under six months.
- ... Proven Self-Defense Principles designed to keep you safe. With ABD, our Krav Maga system is continually improved so you're always getting the latest in martial arts tactics and development.
- ... The Motivation of a structured system to keep you seeing progress. This is where other exercise systems may have failed you. At America’s Best Defense, you have someone helping you, guiding you, and the support of other students just like you. In short, accountability. We help to build you from within, to create self-discipline so strong you won't need anyone else to push you.
- ... A Friendly, Safe Workout Environment. We have great people training here at ABD, and a safe facility to keep you in 'fighting shape.' Our students are comprised of Doctors, Police Officers, Nurses, Coast Guard and Navy personnel, Engineers, and all sorts of professionals.
- ... The Attention of Full-time, Professional Instructors. This is important - at America’s Best Defense, teaching is our only job. Our instructors are not distracted by dayjobs - this means better quality instruction for you.
- ... A Fun Activity for YOU. It's time you can take for yourself, to vent frustrations and feel great, every week. You get to hit stuff HARD in this class. It's difficult NOT to feel better afterward.
- ... A Way To Meet New Friends. You'll surround yourself with motivated, like-minded people that will push you to try your best.
- ... Improved Energy. Working out keeps your body and mind balanced and gives you more energy at work and home. Would increased energy help you get more done?
- ... Goals, Short and Long-Term, with an emphasis placed on personal achievement. If you aren't a goal-oriented person, would it help you to become one? Martial Arts is one of the best ways to learn the habit of Setting Goals.
- ... less of a waistline.
Both my husband and I have noticed a greater level of confidence in myself.
Megin Sechen (Black Belt and mother of 2), Baltic CT
"Master McShane -
"After watching (my son's) classes, I often thought about trying martial arts myself. When Andrew signed up, I decided to give it a try. As nervous as I was, you and your staff made me feel comfortable. Over the past few months, I have noticed so many changes in myself. I definitely enjoy the workout. You push me to do things I never thought I could or would do. Both my husband and I have noticed a greater level of confidence in myself. I wish that I had known the self-defense techniques years ago.
Thank you again for all you, Mr. Hesser and the rest of the staff have done for my family."
"After watching (my son's) classes, I often thought about trying martial arts myself. When Andrew signed up, I decided to give it a try. As nervous as I was, you and your staff made me feel comfortable. Over the past few months, I have noticed so many changes in myself. I definitely enjoy the workout. You push me to do things I never thought I could or would do. Both my husband and I have noticed a greater level of confidence in myself. I wish that I had known the self-defense techniques years ago.
Thank you again for all you, Mr. Hesser and the rest of the staff have done for my family."
Eastern Connecticut State University Professor:
"ABD has changed the way I teach..."
Professor Flood had more to say: (Press Play Below)
The Best Way To Try Out ABD Krav Maga/Muay Thai For Yourself Is To Fill In The Blanks Below...
"I tried running and going to the gym..."
Elizabeth Burke-Roberts, Nurse at Norwich Pediatric Group
Master Instructor - Charlie McShane
- 4th Degree Master in Pyong Hwa Kunin Tang Soo Do under Master Steve Voelker
- Brown Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Marco DeLima
- America's Best Defense Krav Maga & Muay Thai with Master Paul Garcia
- F.I.G.H.T. Instructor under Mike Lee Kanarek (10/08)
- Level 1 Muay Thai Instructor under Master Tran (11/09)
- Brown Belt in Judo at Norwich Judo Dojo
Master McShane is a Level 1 Instructor in Tran's Muay Thai
With over 19 years of experience, Mr. McShane has traveled all over the US and to England to study and compete in martial arts, as well as learn modern teaching and motivational techniques.
Competitive Achievements:
Competitive Achievements:
- 1999 ITSDMGKF World Championships, Watford, England - Gold Medalist: Lightweight Sparring
- 2003 IGTSDA World Championships, London, England - Gold Medalist: Weapons, Gold Medalist: Team Forms
- 2003 AAU US National Jiu-Jitsu Gold Medalist, Lightweight Gi Division, Houston Texas
- 2003 AAU US National Jiu-Jitsu Gold Medalist, Lightweight No-Gi, Houston Texas
- 2003 AAU US National Jiu-Jitsu Gold Medalist, Lightweight Traditional, Houston Texas
Rickson Gracie & Charlie McShane, 2005
Master McShane has also instructed the Hartford Police in unarmed techniques, as well as taught a self-defense course at the Navy Base in Groton.
As a full-time, professional martial artist since 1996, Master McShane has trained with instructors like Royce Gracie, Helio Gracie, Rickson Gracie, Rodrigo Gracie, Ryron Gracie, Rener Gracie, Master Hung Tran, Mike Lee Kanarek, Eddie Bravo, and top USJA instructors Bill Montgomery and Joan Love.
Master McShane is a "Competent Communicator", Awarded by Toastmasters International for public speaking. He also hosted the local TV show "Enter the Dojo."
As a full-time, professional martial artist since 1996, Master McShane has trained with instructors like Royce Gracie, Helio Gracie, Rickson Gracie, Rodrigo Gracie, Ryron Gracie, Rener Gracie, Master Hung Tran, Mike Lee Kanarek, Eddie Bravo, and top USJA instructors Bill Montgomery and Joan Love.
Master McShane is a "Competent Communicator", Awarded by Toastmasters International for public speaking. He also hosted the local TV show "Enter the Dojo."
Charlie McShane, Ganyao Fairtex (Royce Gracie's Muay Thai Coach) and Josh Hesser from ABD Colchester
_______________________________________________________________________________
What Students Are Saying:
John Anthony: Stats - co-founder of Sportsense / 35 years old
Priscilla Migliaccio: Stats - owner of Hidden Acres Family Campground / Preston CT
Chuck Sarette: Stats - Electric Boat / 26 years old
Marianna Ibarra: Stats - 25 years old, Norwich
Scott Chalfant: Stats - co-founder of Sportsense / 34 years old / Andover
Brian Tuttle: Fireman / 25 years old / Taftville
Steve Hanerfeld: Stats - Millstone / 30 years old / Niantic
Kip Piscatelli: Stats - Mohegan Sun / 30 years old / Norwich
Scott Harris: Stats - Electric Boat / 43 years old / Norwich
"Learn some self-defense and get the body in shape for Spring when my workload starts."
- Jeff Keefe, GS Flatwork LLC, Uncasville CT
"That was my goal when I first called America's Best Defense for a tryout in December 2009. I do concrete construction for a living and keeping in shape is a must for me in the off season and at 46 years old, it was time to make some better habits.
The workouts are way beyond what I was doing on my own and always changing. You will not get bored here. The students are supportive of on another and this pushes you to do more which creates a great workout environment.
Master McShane and his assistants are excellent, patient teachers and stress the proper form and technique of each move. I would highly recommend ABD to anyone reading this. You will get in better shape, learn self-defense as were my goals, and something I was not expecting, with the philosophy taught here, perhaps become a better person."
The workouts are way beyond what I was doing on my own and always changing. You will not get bored here. The students are supportive of on another and this pushes you to do more which creates a great workout environment.
Master McShane and his assistants are excellent, patient teachers and stress the proper form and technique of each move. I would highly recommend ABD to anyone reading this. You will get in better shape, learn self-defense as were my goals, and something I was not expecting, with the philosophy taught here, perhaps become a better person."
"Who knew that I would love martial arts
so much?"
Melissa Tamborra, Norwich
Master McShane, I'm so glad we found your school. Both me and Seth are loving. And thanks for kicking my bootay every Tuesday and Thursday morning. I look forward to the classes. Who knew that I would love martial arts so much? I should've started this years ago!! :)
Frequently Asked Questions:
Is it okay that I have no experience?
Yes. We always have beginners coming in, and we'll show you exactly what you need to know to comfortably keep up with class.
Sounds pretty intense:
It’s a good, thorough workout, that’s for sure. But my classes have a supportive and fun atmosphere that makes them a great time. No barking drill-instructors here, just a lot of like-minded people achieving their goals together.
Is America’s Best Defense a Licensed Martial Arts School?
Yes. Our State of Connecticut Health Club License is #HCL.0000754. Many martial arts schools are unlicensed! If this is important to you, make sure you ask at any school you visit.
Will I be getting hit?
Our classes are very SAFE. We use pads, shields, and safety equipment constantly, and the injury rate is VERY low.
I want to compete in Muay Thai/MMA. Do you have a fight team?
We have a couple students who fight but honestly, competition is not our focus. If you are serious about fighting, check out our friends at Strikezone MMA.
What kind of people get involved in this? Just shaved-head, tattooed MMA guys?
No - we have nurses. Doctors. Police officers. Physician’s Assistants. Casino workers. College students. Interface Analysts. High School Teachers. House Moms. Engineers. Pipe Fitters. People from all different walks of life benefit from classes at America’s Best Defense.
Am I Too Old?
Too old to get in shape, learn self-defense, and feel great? Is there an age limit on that? Not that I’ve ever heard of.
Are Classes Co-Ed?
Yes, all of our classes are for men and women. We feel, especially for self-defense, it’s important to work with a variety of partners to promote realistic training. This results in higher confidence in our students, which makes you less of a target.
I have previous injuries.
Does that count me out? No. We can always modify what you do to work around previous injuries, and you’ll NEVER be asked to work through any kind of pain.
How much does it cost?
We have different options to choose from, but most professional martial arts schools in the area charge between 99 and 199 per month. We find ourselves somewhere in the middle.
Is your program right for everyone?
No. Our program is designed for people who are serious about getting in shape and developing confidence. We’re not a sport school. We don’t really do tournaments. I don’t train cage-fighters, and our environment is not gym-like. I also don’t teach traditional karate or cardio-kickboxing. If our program isn’t right for you, I’d be more than happy to recommend other programs in the area that would be a better fit.
Yes. We always have beginners coming in, and we'll show you exactly what you need to know to comfortably keep up with class.
Sounds pretty intense:
It’s a good, thorough workout, that’s for sure. But my classes have a supportive and fun atmosphere that makes them a great time. No barking drill-instructors here, just a lot of like-minded people achieving their goals together.
Is America’s Best Defense a Licensed Martial Arts School?
Yes. Our State of Connecticut Health Club License is #HCL.0000754. Many martial arts schools are unlicensed! If this is important to you, make sure you ask at any school you visit.
Will I be getting hit?
Our classes are very SAFE. We use pads, shields, and safety equipment constantly, and the injury rate is VERY low.
I want to compete in Muay Thai/MMA. Do you have a fight team?
We have a couple students who fight but honestly, competition is not our focus. If you are serious about fighting, check out our friends at Strikezone MMA.
What kind of people get involved in this? Just shaved-head, tattooed MMA guys?
No - we have nurses. Doctors. Police officers. Physician’s Assistants. Casino workers. College students. Interface Analysts. High School Teachers. House Moms. Engineers. Pipe Fitters. People from all different walks of life benefit from classes at America’s Best Defense.
Am I Too Old?
Too old to get in shape, learn self-defense, and feel great? Is there an age limit on that? Not that I’ve ever heard of.
Are Classes Co-Ed?
Yes, all of our classes are for men and women. We feel, especially for self-defense, it’s important to work with a variety of partners to promote realistic training. This results in higher confidence in our students, which makes you less of a target.
I have previous injuries.
Does that count me out? No. We can always modify what you do to work around previous injuries, and you’ll NEVER be asked to work through any kind of pain.
How much does it cost?
We have different options to choose from, but most professional martial arts schools in the area charge between 99 and 199 per month. We find ourselves somewhere in the middle.
Is your program right for everyone?
No. Our program is designed for people who are serious about getting in shape and developing confidence. We’re not a sport school. We don’t really do tournaments. I don’t train cage-fighters, and our environment is not gym-like. I also don’t teach traditional karate or cardio-kickboxing. If our program isn’t right for you, I’d be more than happy to recommend other programs in the area that would be a better fit.
How Do I Get Started?
Getting started is simple.
Simply fill in your information below, and one of my staff members will get back to you as soon as possible.
At that point, we will schedule a QUICK START APPOINTMENT.
The Quick Start Appointment will let us do 2 things:
1) It will give you a chance to see exactly how we can help you achieve your goals and how we work with our students,
and…
2) We’ll teach you all the basics you need to comfortably join the group class.
IN YOUR QUICK START CLASS, you will:
Learn the Basics of Movement: 4 Key Steps to moving defensively,
Learn to Maximize Your Power: It doesn’t take muscle to hit hard. We’ll show you how.
All of this for 14.95.
Keep in mind, this Quick Start Program is available so we can make sure my program is right for you first. You won’t be committing to anything.
Also, this program is popular right now, and my appointment book fills up fast. The sooner you fill in your info and reserve a spot, the better.
So again, please fill in your info below and be as detailed as you can. I’d like to meet you and find the best way to help you with your goals.
Simply fill in your information below, and one of my staff members will get back to you as soon as possible.
At that point, we will schedule a QUICK START APPOINTMENT.
The Quick Start Appointment will let us do 2 things:
1) It will give you a chance to see exactly how we can help you achieve your goals and how we work with our students,
and…
2) We’ll teach you all the basics you need to comfortably join the group class.
IN YOUR QUICK START CLASS, you will:
Learn the Basics of Movement: 4 Key Steps to moving defensively,
Learn to Maximize Your Power: It doesn’t take muscle to hit hard. We’ll show you how.
- Learn Basic Punches,
- Learn Knee Strikes,
- Learn A Basic Kick,
- Link these techniques into Practical Combinations,
- AND Experience part of an ABD workout. You’ll break a sweat and have fun kicking and punching some pads.
- A Krav Maga self-defense technique against a common attack situation,
- PLUS you’ll get an official America’s Best Defense Training T-Shirt!
All of this for 14.95.
Keep in mind, this Quick Start Program is available so we can make sure my program is right for you first. You won’t be committing to anything.
Also, this program is popular right now, and my appointment book fills up fast. The sooner you fill in your info and reserve a spot, the better.
So again, please fill in your info below and be as detailed as you can. I’d like to meet you and find the best way to help you with your goals.
Charlie McShane
Master Instructor
America's Best Defense LLC
433 West Main Street
Norwich, Connecticut 06360
860-889-1818
America's Best Defense LLC
433 West Main Street
Norwich, Connecticut 06360
860-889-1818
All material on this site copyright ©2007-2011 America’s Best Defense LLC.All rights reserved. Material may not be used or reprinted for any reason without prior written authorization from America’s Best Defense LLC.
