Get In The Best Shape Of Your Life - While Learning The Skills
To Defend Yourself
Gain the Confidence That Comes With
Self-Defense and Fitness--At Any Age
"This aint your mama's cardio-kickboxing class!" No tights, no ankle weights, no Jane Fonda aerobics! ABD Kickboxing Classes are a mix of punching, kicking, knees, and elbows that can burn up to 900 calories per hour while developing and toning every muscle group.
Not only that: The ABD system includes Krav Maga, the number one self-defense system in the world. Developed by the Israeli military, Krav Maga was featured in the Jennifer Lopez move "Enough" and is quick, easy, and fun to learn.
Class is fast-paced, intense, and positively charged. You've never experienced a workout like America's Best Defense Muay Thai and Krav Maga.
Not only that: The ABD system includes Krav Maga, the number one self-defense system in the world. Developed by the Israeli military, Krav Maga was featured in the Jennifer Lopez move "Enough" and is quick, easy, and fun to learn.
Class is fast-paced, intense, and positively charged. You've never experienced a workout like America's Best Defense Muay Thai and Krav Maga.

Krav Maga Self-Defense... No Nonsense!
If you're tired of the gym and home workouts, the
America's Best Defense system is for you. Combining the arts of Muay
Thai Kickboxing and Krav Maga, ABD is a high-speed, full-power, whole
body workout and self-defense course all in one.
While your body is getting strong, lean, and toned, you'll be learning the skills to keep you safe. Hand-to-hand, grappling, or defense against knife or gun threats... America's Best Defense covers it all, in a safe and fun environment.
While your body is getting strong, lean, and toned, you'll be learning the skills to keep you safe. Hand-to-hand, grappling, or defense against knife or gun threats... America's Best Defense covers it all, in a safe and fun environment.
Chief Instructor: Josh Hesser
- 3rd Degree Black Belt in Hybrid Martial Arts
- 3rd Degree Black Belt in Tang Soo Do
- Brown Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (awarded by Marco DeLima & Marcus Aurelio 10/10)
- Certified Level 1 Tran's Muay Thai Instructor
- MMA Competitor
- Submission Grappling Competitor
Mr. Hesser has been a full-time, professional martial arts instructor for over eight years. Serving as Chief Instructor at America's Best Defense Martial Arts in Norwich, he has the unique ability to communicate the benefits of martial arts to all audiences, from Hartford Dignitary Protection Officers to kindergartners. Mr. Hesser's classes emphasize fitness and self-defense, in a fun and safe environment.
Mr. Hesser, a Colchester resident, has a true passion for providing quality, professional martial arts education to Colchester-area families.
Mr. Hesser's upbeat classes place an emphasis on being in great shape while learning the "highest percentage" self-defense techniques availabe--in other words, use what works and forget the rest. If you're looking for a new way to get in the best shape of your life, without the slightest chance of getting bored, Josh Hesser is the instructor for you.
Mr. Hesser, a Colchester resident, has a true passion for providing quality, professional martial arts education to Colchester-area families.
Mr. Hesser's upbeat classes place an emphasis on being in great shape while learning the "highest percentage" self-defense techniques availabe--in other words, use what works and forget the rest. If you're looking for a new way to get in the best shape of your life, without the slightest chance of getting bored, Josh Hesser is the instructor for you.
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 likeminded people achieving their goals together.
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.
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 180 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 likeminded people achieving their goals together.
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.
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 180 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.
Elizabeth Burke-Roberts, 30 years old, Pediatric Nurse
Scott Chalfant, Andover Connecticut
Priscilla Migliaccio, Preston Connecticut
Josh Hesser is taking appointments for introductory classes now. Simply fill in the info below to secure your spot!
