Isabelle Lacroix remembers a time when she was one of the only women in her Brazilian jiu jitsu training group at Mas Academy of Martial Arts.
Going up against men twice her size didn't bother her thanks to what she calls a welcoming environment, but she understood the intimidation factor could be a barrier preventing others from signing up.
Now, 11 years later, Lacroix is determined to ease that hesitation as the coach of a new women's only jiu jitsu program.
"I think women are ready to feel strong and confident and they want to feel like they can handle anything," Lacroix said.
"They want to feel powerful. I know once we open it up to women's only, they'll have no excuse to come try it out with someone their own size in a safe and supportive environment."
Jiu jitsu is often misunderstood, Lacroix says. The sport begins standing before moving to the ground for a variety of holds and submissions. While it's a physical workout, the lessons the sport can teach are beneficial beyond the mat.
"I've been here for 11 years and people come and train for different reasons," she said.
"It could be to get in shape. There's a mental health aspect where women come for a release and there's also the part that keeps you calm and teaches you how to handle your emotions."
For Lacroix, it changed her life and gave her direction.
She's made lifelong friends, met her partner and had her daughter in the years since joining, all experiences she says were fostered by the family atmosphere at the academy.
"I started at the age of 16 because before that I didn't have an outlet," she said.
"I was making the wrong decisions and choosing the wrong path. I had a lot of energy and I just had to direct it into something positive. It keeps me grounded and challenges me at every level."
Lacroix acknowledges there can be uncertainty around trying something new, especially a combat sport, but says often times it's as simple as giving it a try. It's a mindset she's noticed is taking hold over the past few years as more women have joined the academy, some as young as 10 years old.
"Just show up," she said.
"Showing up is the hardest part. Once you take that step, you realize it's normal people with similar goals. At the end of the day we're all trying to feel like we belong somewhere and achieve our goals."
Pre-registration for the 10 week women's program closes Oct. 16.
Anyone who would like to set up a free trial can contact Lacroix or Mas Academy of Martial Arts.
