Last night, we hosted our second Women's Self Defense workshop at Elements Academy. We wanted to hold an event in recognition of International Women's Day which would raise money for WAVAW (Women Against Violence Against Women). Our first one filled up fast, so we held a second workshop last night. I am very happy with the numbers and the success of this special event.
I really enjoyed watching the way the women progressed during the two workshops. The energy and confidence increased as the women got more familiar and proficient with the moves. Since I have regular exposure to self-defense, I forget that most women have never experienced what it's like to have someone grab them in a bear hug, or choke them up against a wall. This can be extremely scary and without practicing escapes, it can feel like a hopeless situation. The women in attendance showed strength, courage, and determination. They became quite proficient with the moves and I feel very positive about arming them with a little bit of knowledge and experience. I hope to be able to reach as many women as possible and encourage them to put the practice of learning how to defend themselves into their regular schedule.
I don't think there is enough really good self-defense courses for women out there and I'd like to change that. Instead of just doing one-off workshops/seminars, we have opened a regular class that runs weekly on Tuesday nights. It is strictly for women and focuses on defending common grabs and holds and realistic situations such as being underneath someone on the ground. Practicing these scenarios in a safe setting with other women allows for retention of the techniques. Over time, there is a greater emphasis on a more realistic struggle and challenging scenarios. Like anything you want to become proficient at, you have to practice.
Every woman is welcome and I encourage you to try it - you never know when you might need it.
Women's Self Defense
Every Tuesday at 7pm
Elements Academy of Martial Arts
It's Fight, not Flight.
Emma
