Frequently Asked Questions

Safety & Philosophy

Is this about fighting back?

The focus is on escape and avoidance as well as psychological preparedness. You will learn some aggressive techniques you can use in the event that you need to fight back.

Do you offer home safety training?

Yes, there are specialized courses that teach home-clearing techniques using airsoft guns for scenario training.

Support & Contact

How can I contact you?

You can contact Smart Girl Self Defense through our contact form to ask questions, or call us directly.

Are there any other locations?

The main site is located in Albuquerque, NM.

App & Online Training

Is there an app?

Yes, the SGSD App allows you to train online using on-demand video or by streaming live in-person classes.

Does the app track progress??

Yes, it tracks your progress automatically so you can stop and finish training later.

What content is included?

The app offers on-demand videos, live class streaming, and VIP special events.

Classes & Registration

What will I learn?

You will learn to recognize/avoid dangerous situations, set verbal/physical boundaries, break free from grabs/holds, and use effective, simple techniques.

What types of classes do you offer?
  • Smart Girl Self Defense: Core, non-intimidating defense classes.
  • FIT2HIT Defense Fitness: Fitness classes for stress relief and conditioning.
  • Adaptive Self-Defense: Specialized training for women with physical disabilities or chronic illness.
  • Fight Back! Skills and Drills: Ongoing training to keep skills sharp.
  • Private Sessions: 60-minute private, tailored training sessions.
How much do classes cost?

There is a range of costs based on how frequently you'd like to train and the type of training you are seeking. The Smart Girl Self Defense course is $96 and comes with free refreshers.

How do I sign up?

You can register for upcoming classes here at this link.

General Information

What is Smart Girl Self Defense?

Smart Girl Self Defense is a program created by renowned Jackson Wink MMA Academy to offer tailored self-defense courses exclusively for women.

Do I need previous experience?

No. Classes are non-intimidating and designed for all ages and abilities, regardless of athletic experience.

Where are you located?

While offering online apps, in-person training is available at 7610 Carmel Ave NE, Ste D, Albuquerque, NM.

Not sure where to start?

We’re happy to help you choose the right class.

What to expect when you step into class

Each session is guided, beginner-friendly, and focused on helping you
apply what you learn—not just watch or memorize.

STEP 1

Learn the Situation

You’ll be walked through common
real-life scenarios—so you understand what to look for and exactly when you need to act to stay safe.

STEP 2

Practice with Guidance

Instructors demonstrate each movement, then guide you step-by-step as you practice in a controlled, supportive environment.

STEP 3

Repeat Until “Natural”

You’ll drill the techniques so your response becomes more automatic—not something you have to think through under pressure.

Instructors at

Smart Girl Self Defense

Mike Winkeljohn

Head Coach

Coach Mike Winkeljohn is widely recognized as one of the most sought-after coaches in the world of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) today. With a 5th Degree Black Belt in Kempo Karate, he has an impressive background as a multiple-time ISKA, Kickboxing, and Muay Thai World Champion.

Heather Winkeljohn

Head Coach

Heather Winkeljohn has been teaching all ages and abilities in fitness and self-defense for several years. Heather holds a Black Belt from the Jackson Wink Academy for her skills and contributions to Smart Girl Self Defense and the formation of IncredAble Adaptive MMA, two degrees in Education and Psychology and is a registered nurse with a BSN.

Dayna

Coach

A Marine Corp Veteran. Dayna earned her Bachelor’s degree in fashion design. She is a personal trainer, and a Coach for Smart Girl Self Defense and the IncredAble Adaptive MMA program.

Jordan

Coach

Jordan joined Jackson Wink/Wink’s Gym Kickboxing and has since been honored to become an instructor. Jordan loves bringing cardio, strength training, and teamwork into her workouts and thrives on seeing her students improve each and every day in the physical, mental, and emotional form.

Dalea

Coach

Feeling a need to expand her education and ability to defend herself and her family, Dalea started to train in MMA and learn about firearms several years ago. She has a unique perspective, easily relating to those who didn’t grow up with firearms.

Not sure where to start?

We’re happy to help you choose the right class.

Join women who started with
no experience—and now feel prepared

From first-time students to parents and professionals,
these reviews reflect what people actually take away from the training.

Google
Trisha Cohen profile picture
Trisha Cohen
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The Smart Girl Self Defense Class is so valuable for anyone wanting to learn skills to protect yourself. I am so glad I took the class. I feel more empowered now. It is very thorough and the instructors are so knowledgeable and helpful! I highly recommend this class!
Google
Nora Small profile picture
Nora Small
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I absolutely love this place!!! There is not judgement and it's a very supportive environment for girls and women, I am a girl and I am a pre-teen, everyone is very nice there and very supportive, this place is perfect for pre-teen, teens, adults, literally any girl or women at any age!! It's so amazing and I have gotten stronger from it!! Thank you Mrs. Heather!!! 😊❤
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Lori Lewis profile picture
Lori Lewis
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⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Absolutely empowering and invaluable experience I took the Smart Girl Self-Defense class at Jackson Wink last Saturday, and I cannot recommend it highly enough. I’ve never had the opportunity to take a truly practical self-defense class before—especially one that included real-world situations like carjacking awareness and home protection. This program goes far beyond theory. It’s realistic, hands-on, and taught by people with an incredible depth of experience. Heather Winkeljohn and her husband Mike Winkeljohn were absolutely fabulous—clear, supportive, and truly empowering. They taught essential street-level self-defense skills in a way that felt approachable and confidence-building. Greg Jackson then walked us through home-defense scenarios, including what to do in the rare but frightening event of a home invasion. I even learned the basics of how to clear a house with a firearm. I’ll be honest—I’ve always been intimidated by guns and had never handled one before. This class helped me realize how important it is to be informed and familiar, even if you never plan to own one. That alone was incredibly eye-opening and empowering. What stood out most was the heart behind the instruction. This is a team genuinely committed to helping women feel safer, stronger, and more confident—without ego or intimidation. Don’t hesitate because you think you’re “too old” or inexperienced. This class truly is for women of all ages. I’m 65, and I’m so glad I took it. If you’re even considering it—do it. You’ll walk away more confident, more aware, and better prepared.
Google
A.L. Alanen profile picture
A.L. Alanen
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Smartgirl Self Defense Classes are jam packed with useful information and skills instruction. Instructors are top notch, atmosphere is engaging and supportive. I’ve done several of their classes, including refreshers, and will keep coming back. The home defense in particular was both fun and informative.
Google
007NMPenfold profile picture
007NMPenfold
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Greg is an amazing instructor. will be looking into the one section of home protection. it was concise and "dad jokes" funny. This is a real course of self-protection.
Google
Mona Gonzales profile picture
Mona Gonzales
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I signed up with a coworker through continuing education and this was an amazing class that all women should take! The instructors are phenomenal and use real life examples to demonstrate moves and teach skills necessary to defend yourself if bad situations arise. They made everyone feel welcome and included. There was a wide age range of women in the class and that showed how much span and reach the class is getting. Take it and see for yourself. You won’t be disappointed and it’s a great workout!
Google
Beth Steen profile picture
Beth Steen
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My daughter is heading off to college in California and I am a home health nurse. Your class has taught both of us to be very aware of our surroundings and the people in our proximity. Knowledge is power. And learning some simple self-defense tips is knowledge. Your program is invaluable to all women in this increasingly unpredictable world. Thank you so much!!
Google
Glenda Johnson profile picture
Glenda Johnson
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I signed up for the 4 hour Smart Girl Self Defense class through UNM Continuing Ed. It was high energy and filled with lots of different techniques for many different kinds of situations. I was surprised at the age range of girls and women. I felt included and welcome and they accommodated my arthritis issues so I could participate. I highly recommend this class as the instructors were top notch!
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GET STARTED NOW

Start learning what to do—
before you ever need it

 

You don’t need experience to begin. You just need a starting point.

In one class, you’ll learn how to recognize risk, respond with confidence,
and take control of situations that used to feel uncertain.

Start with a class. Build from there.

Smart Girl Self Defense Mobile App

Train anywhere with the Smart Girl Self Defense mobile app. Available on all major app stores.

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