Meet Your Instructor: 

Chris Kennedy 

Chris’s unique background combined with his extensive law enforcement experience has given him highly developed insights into the reality of self-defense. This expertise was used to develop and instruct numerous self defense programs through the Yaruki Judo Academy in Carstairs, Alberta.  In 2023 Chris became a certified self-defense instructor and expanded his program offerings to include Conflict Resolution, De-escalation, Child Safety and Anti Abduction Training, and Fundamental Active Shooter Training™️.  In 2024 Chris further expanded his offerings by becoming a certified Red Cross First Aid instructor.  In 2025 Chris joined the Professional Self Defense Association as a consultant, providing training and self defense business coaching to instructors all over the world.  

Chris has instructed Self Defense Tactics for over 25 years. This has resulted in a passion surrounding Personal Safety and Self-Defense and a desire to prevent victimization of families and individuals.  This passion translates into a comprehensive, reality based training environment.  As the owner and lead instructor of RHINO Defense Inc. Chris is now providing a higher level of safety, self defense, and first aid instruction to Western Canada.

Summary of Chris's Additional Experience:

• Police Officer - City of Calgary
• Corrections Officer – Calgary Correctional Centre
• Security Intelligence Officer - Calgary Correctional Centre
• Founder and Head Instructor - RHINO Defense Inc.
• Founder and Head Instructor – Yaruki Judo and Fitness Academy
• Certified Consultant with the Professional Self Defense Association
• Certified Red Cross First Aid Instructor
• Judo Canada Certified Self Defense Instructor
• National Coaching Certification Program - Certified Level 2 Instructor
• 2nd Degree Black Belt in Judo
• 35 Years of Self-Defense Experience