Warrior Way, Inc. / Defense Training Institute

Defense Training Institute operates out of Aurora, Illinois, offering practical self-defense instruction rooted in real-world application rather than sport-based rules. Founded in 1998 by Chief Master Instructor Edgardo Pérez, the school has spent over two decades teaching counter-reactive techniques that work when it matters.

The curriculum covers:

• •Japanese Jūjutsu (柔術) – Joint locks, grappling, and positional control
• •Hapkido – Korean martial art emphasizing striking, kicks, and joint techniques
• •Guazabara Esgrima – Machete and stick fighting (founded by Pérez)
• •Filipino Kali – Largo Mano style weapons training
• •Combat Jūjutsu – Practical application for real confrontations
• •Youth Self-Defense – Age-appropriate instruction for kids

Chief Master Instructor Edgardo Pérez brings 30+ years of law enforcement experience, including undercover narcotics work with the FBI's Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force, Illinois State Police North Central Narcotics Task Force, and DEA operations. He holds an 8th-degree black belt in Hapkido and 4th-degree in Daito Ryu Aiki-Jujutsu. Beyond combat training, Pérez authored Martial Thoughts, exploring the deeper purpose of martial arts in personal development.

Unlike traditional martial arts schools, DTI's approach emphasizes survivability over style. Training covers both standing and ground scenarios, with the goal of gaining control and creating opportunities to escape or re-engage. Students learn to respond effectively in actual confrontations, not just sport matches.

• •MAGIC (Martial Arts Gang Intervention Club) – Scholarship-based training for at-risk youth
• •Kicking for Kids – Fundraiser kickathon that has raised over $47,800 for children in need

Free Week trial available. Contact for private lesson scheduling.

"More than just combat, the martial arts serve as a powerful platform for personal growth, character development, and the pursuit of becoming a better human being." — Master P.