Self Defence

Self defence is a set of practical skills for keeping yourself safe if someone tries to hurt you. It covers much more than blocks and strikes: spotting trouble early, staying calm, using a strong voice, wriggling out of a grab and getting away to safety. The aim is never to win a fight, but to avoid one or escape it.

Many self defence techniques come from martial arts. Krav Maga is a self defence system developed in Israel, known for simple, direct moves that are easy to remember under pressure.

Eskrima, also called Kali or Arnis, is a Filipino martial art that trains with sticks and teaches ways to deal with weapons.

Judo and Brazilian jiu-jitsu focus on balance, grips and escaping holds, while boxing and kickboxing build a good stance and quick footwork.

Practical self defence often mixes ideas from several styles and keeps only the moves that work simply and quickly.

After a warm-up, your Activity Leader shows you a strong, balanced stance with your hands up and open. You'll practise using your voice with a loud, clear 'Stop' or 'Back off', then learn simple ways to escape a wrist grab or a hold. Everyone works in pairs, taking turns to play the attacker at a slow, controlled speed. It's done in a fun, light-hearted way, and you finish with a few moves you can actually remember.

Yes. Children learn that their first and best tools are awareness, a loud voice and getting to a trusted adult. The physical moves are simple and rely on technique rather than size, which gives smaller people real confidence. Practising together as a family can also open up useful conversations about staying safe, in a way that feels positive rather than scary.

Wear comfortable sportswear you can stretch and move in, and trainers with a good grip. Take off rings, watches and any jewellery that could scratch a partner, and tie back long hair. Sessions often happen outdoors, so dress for the weather and bring a water bottle too.

You might also like Kickboxing, Filipino Stick Fighting and Parkour.

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