Ascension Self Defense opens on Pleasant Street

Mayor Gary Christenson welcomed Ascension Self Defense to 75 Pleasant Street, the City of Malden announced Oct. 22. The studio was previously located next to Mystic Station.

Ascension Self Defense offers martial arts training and instruction for both real-world encounters and competition. The business provides four different martial arts programs and welcomes children ages 4 and above as well as adults of any experience level to what it describes as a safe, fun training environment.

Owner and instructor Jordan Howard began his martial arts training in 2014 at a Krav Maga studio in Nashville. After moving back to New England, he earned his black belt under his mentor, Dennis Amato of Krav Maga Boston. Howard's mission is to give students a comprehensive, well-rounded skill set in Krav Maga, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Muay Thai.

According to the announcement, students learn to be responsible, respectful martial artists on the mats, at home and at school while exercising and having fun. The self-defense program is designed to teach children how to confidently defend themselves and become more aware of their surroundings. Classes aim to improve physical conditioning while building practical skills and confidence.

The opening was marked with an event attended by Ascension Self Defense employees, family and friends, along with Howard, Christenson and Chamber of Commerce Director Marianne Cohen.

More information, including hours of operation, is available on Ascension Self Defense's website.

Source: City of Malden announcement, October 22, 2026.

Checked against the record: before publication this article was automatically compared with the original announcement. It was corrected where it differed.