About DC IMPACT

DC IMPACT is a member of IMPACT International, a group that maintains safety and ethical standards for full-force self-defense courses. IMPACT classes feature the type of scenario-based, adrenaline state training that has been shown to be most effective, and has been recommended by Gavin de Becker in “The Gift of Fear” and Ellen Bass in “The Courage to Heal.” All courses are taught in a supportive atmosphere by carefully screened, highly trained instructors.

About Founder and Director Carol Middleton

The DC chapter of IMPACT was founded in 1988 by Carol Middleton, a leading authority on self defense and martial arts with more than 40 years of experience. She has directed the organization since it began. Carol began training in martial arts and self defense in 1968. She holds a seventh degree black belt and continues to train actively. She has also studied Aikido, Kung Fu, Judo, Tai Chi, and Krav Maga. An expert in self defense, Carol has worked with hundreds of area organizations, such as the DC Rape Crisis Center, and has trained self-defense instructors for various national and international programs, including most recently a special trip to train instructors for women and children in Kenya in the slums outside of Nairobi.

In addition to DC IMPACT, she also founded DC Self Defense Karate Association (DCSDKA), a traditional martial arts school, and in 2001, Krav Maga DC, offering yet another option for defensive tactics training. As an international leader in the self defense world, Carol is a co-founder of IMPACT Self Defense and of the National Women’s Martial Arts Federation. Carol is also a long-time advisor and certified instructor with Kidpower Teenpower Fullpower International, a nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing personal safety, advocacy, and self defense skills to people of all ages and abilities.