Self defence
martial arts skills without the funny pajamas
Many people, particularly ladies, would like to try a martial art for self-defence. What puts them off is the predominantly male dominated clubs, particularly judo and jujitsu.
With all those sweaty males rolling around on the floor or punching and kicking each other not to mention those funny pajamas they wear it's little wonder that many women (and some men for that matter) are put off.
It takes bags of self confidence and a positive presence of mind to walk into a martial arts dojo for the first time - this is when self defence comes into its own. Devoid of the rituals and etiquette associated with a martial arts school, self defence classes provide a less intimidating, user friendly environment in which to train and practice self defence.
There's no pressure to perform or test for gradings, there's no ego bruising or strutting sometimes associated with belt wearing martial artists, it's an altogether more relaxed arena.
ACS in association with team BEDS&LUTON's Get Back Into initiative ran its first ladies only self defence class in May/June 2010. Intersestingly, it perfectly highlighted the differences in teaching methods required between a standard martial arts school and a self defence class.
Many of the more flamboyant, technically advanced techniques have little or no place in a self defence class where the focus is on short sharp defence, escape and avoidance.
A different skill set and frame of mind is required to learn a full blown martial art and not everyone is suited to or indeed wants to learn, which is why self defence classes exist.
ACS Design & Leisure plan to run more of these self-defence classes in the future. Ladies classes will be free of males (except for the instructors and invited training partners) and participants won't require any uniforms or equipment. Opportunities continue training with our established martial arts clubs will be offered to interested participants.
If you are interested in arranging a self-defence class or course for your group or club then please ring: 07711 369128 or to email us .