How to Choose a Good Women’s Self-Defense Class
Many women, for many reasons, want to take self-defense classes. Such classes can provide a sense of confidence and self-assurance for women, but in order to get all the benefits you need to choose a good one. Here are some tips on how to choose a good women’s self-defense class.
1. Find Out What’s Available
Before you begin choosing between classes, it’s a good idea to find out what’s available in your area. One place you could start is your local police station. Another option is to check with the YMCA/YWCA. And of course, there is always the yellow pages!
2. Visit
Once you’ve found some classes that you’re interested in, go visit one. You can call ahead or show up unannounced. If you call ahead, they can be prepared for your visit and help show you around. If you don’t call, you can walk in on the class “as is,” and you’ll be able to see things how they really are. Observing a class is important in making your decision.
3. Aggression versus Avoidance
One of the signs of an effective self-defense class is an instructor who emphasizes avoiding confrontation. There are tips and behaviors that you can use to help avoid having to use force to begin with. Use of force should be a last resort.
4. Male or Female Instructor?
Many women feel more comfortable with a female instructor, because she may be a role model you can relate to more easily. Also, a female instructor provides an environment where class members feel more comfortable discussing sensitive topics. However, a male instructor can also provide insight into danger signs and the male mind.
5. No One Way
One sign of a good self-defense course is that there are no guarantees offered. That may sound odd, but the reality is, no one technique or approach is going to work 100% of the time in every situation. A good class accepts the fact that each situation is different, and their focus is on teaching overall techniques that work most of the time. Effective instructors teach concepts that can be applied according to the situation rather than mechanical methods.
6. Realistic Approach
A class that does not sugar-coat dangerous situations is probably a good one. It can undermine students’ effectiveness and confidence if the class is taught without the very real element of psychological stress. Students need to learn how to think and act in situations where they are under duress.