Back Story: Integrated Personal Defense

This "interview" about Integrated Personal Defense at 174 Merrow Rd. in Tolland was conducted by the owner, Todd Jensen, filling out this form for Patch and submitting it. It's part of Tolland Patch's new series of business profiles, "The Back Story."

Why choose that location? Why start a business in this town?
My family moved to Tolland in Sept 2012. We chose Tolland because of family and the town's great reputation and schools. I thought Tolland would be a perfect place to open a school because it's a small town and there was an unmet need here.

What do you do?
We offer Martial Arts training to people of all ages (starting at age 4). We also offer group fitness classes such as Bootcamp and Cardio Kickboxing.

What are you most proud of about your business?
When I set out on this adventure I wanted to make a difference and help others. I feel I have done just that. I receive wonderful emails from parents about how pleased they are with our school and the improvements they see.

What's something people would find surprising about your business or profession?
Our Martial Arts school is very different than most. Our program is not just one art like Karate or Kung Fu. Our children train in kickboxing, Karate and Kali. Our adults and teens train in boxing, kickboxing, kali, jiujitsu and pirate arts (yes, pirates!).

How are you involved in the community?
I feel we give back every day people walk through our doors. It's not just about martial arts. It's about getting involved in their life skills development. Making sure work and life are balance, that our students are focused at school and at home.

Integrated Personal Defense