Find a self defense classes in Berkeley, CA

Find self defense classes in Berkeley, CA

Find self defense classes in Berkeley, CA

Share a few details and we'll show you the best self defense classes in your area.
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Disciplines interested in

Find self defense classes in Berkeley, CA

Share a few details and we'll show you the best self defense classes in your area.
Zip code

Disciplines interested in

Top 10 self defense classes in Berkeley, CA

Students agree: these teachers are highly rated for knowledge, experience, communication, and more.
S Class Combat

S Class Combat

New on Lessons
Serves Berkeley, CA
I am a professional martial artist with over 12 years of training experience. I specialize in striking and movement, but have experience in grappling and weapons as well. I am still an active competitor, and will continue to be active for the next 15-20 years. My martial arts background include: Muay Thai, Kajukenbo, BJJ, and Filipino stick fighting. I can turn you into a legitimately lethal fighter, or just get you in better shape. Whatever your goals in fitness or combat sports are, I can be the catalyst to help get you there.
Righteous Science Martial Arts

Righteous Science Martial Arts

New on Lessons
8+ years in business
Serves Berkeley, CA
Welcome to Righteous Science Martial Arts! Located in the heart of San Francisco, we specialize in offering martial arts classes, knife skills training, and personal training sessions. With a personalized approach and deep expertise, our mission is to help you achieve your fitness and self-defense goals. Whether you're looking to master martial arts techniques or enhance your physical conditioning, we provide tailored programs that cater to your unique needs. Join us and experience a transformative journey in a supportive and empowering environment.
GenX Fitness LLC

GenX Fitness LLC

5.0Exceptional(5)
Offers online services
2 hires on Lessons
4+ years in business
Serves Berkeley, CA
Vida C. says, "He's experienced, knowledgeable and makes classes fun. He knows how to push you just enough to get you to reach your potential." Read more
Projekt 8020

Projekt 8020

5.0(1)
Offers online services
9+ years in business
Serves Berkeley, CA
Allison E. says, "I enjoyed the personal workout plans tailored weekly to my needs/goals. There is a great attention to detail, corrections to my form which is so important yet often overlooked by personal trainers. I always felt motivated and encouraged, and looked forward to my next session." Read more
Combative Grappling/ Self Defense Lessons

Combative Grappling/ Self Defense Lessons

5.0(1)
5+ years in business
Serves Berkeley, CA
Dylan W. says, "Cisco is an amazing instructor, he’s very down to earth and easy to learn from! I started Bjj to learn self defense, but I stayed because of Cisco! 10/10 I wouldn’t want to learn from anyone else!" Read more
McCullum's Consulting

McCullum's Consulting

New on Lessons
27+ years in business
Serves Berkeley, CA
I teach women and teenage girls with no martial arts experience how to be aware and protect themselves. The techniques are simple yet effective, so anyone from the young to the elderly can participate and become more aware and safe. I am a retired law enforcement officer with over 40 years of teaching experience. I teach group and private classes. My website Www.mccullumsconsulting.com Over the past twenty years, I have taught hundreds of women and teenage girls to become more aware, confident, and safe. Many participants have described their experience with Aware as "Empowering, Informative, and Fun"...
Scholar Wrestling School

Scholar Wrestling School

New on Lessons
37+ years in business
Serves Berkeley, CA
Scholar Wrestling School combines wrestling fundamentals with academic standards according to grade.
Earthpathic

Earthpathic

New on Lessons
39+ years in business
Serves Berkeley, CA
My name is Demi. I have been a martial arts practitioner for roughly 8 years collectively. I am heavy into exploring the arts athletic abilities in myself and others. My philosophy is, “The more you learn, the less you know.” Even perfection can be improved upon. I have found myself to be natural to the arts and teaching. Which I consider an art as well. I able to provide practical, effective, and efficient combinations and defenses.
Threat Scenarios

Threat Scenarios

New on Lessons
1 hire on Lessons
9+ years in business
Serves Berkeley, CA
We provide realistic, affordable, safe firearms and self defense training. Empowering students with knowledge and skills to protect and defend themselves.
Hanabi Judo

Hanabi Judo

5.0(1)
59+ years in business
Serves Berkeley, CA
Gill says, "My son (age 6) started Judo during their summer camp and we have loved it ever since. " Read more

Your self defense questions, answered

Answers to commonly asked questions from the experts on Lessons.

How much are self-defense classes?

Self-defense classes cost $150 to $400 on average for a 6- to 10-week program at a martial arts studio or dedicated self-defense school. Classes held at community centers typically cost less than those offered by professional marital arts studios, and some local police departments and offer free classes.

Some martial arts studios offer single-session self-defense classes for $30 to $80 each, depending on the studio, class size, length, and location. Most one-time classes last 2 to 3 hours.

Are self-defense classes worth it?

Self-defense classes are worth it for individuals who want to be prepared for a life-threatening situation. A self-defense class teaches you how to recognize and avoid dangerous situations, and how to survive situations that can't be avoided. Many people consider the added peace of mind worth the investment.

Self-defense training can be especially helpful if you find yourself in any of these common circumstances:

  • Walking alone at night
  • Jogging in a secluded area, such as a wooded park or trail
  • In a crowded bar or club where alcohol is served
  • During a home invasion

Are self-defense classes effective, and what are the benefits?

Self-defense classes are an effective way to learn how to avoid dangerous confrontations and how to deescalate or escape the confrontations you can't avoid.

Self-defense classes provide a wide range of benefits:

  • Builds your confidence
  • Improves your physical fitness
  • Increases your awareness of your surroundings
  • Improves your balance
  • Provides a sense of personal empowerment

In addition to teaching you how to defend yourself against a human attacker, self-defense training can also be useful when defending yourself from an animal attack.

What do self-defense classes teach?

Self-defense classes teach you these skills to defend yourself from an attacker:

  • Situational awareness and how to detect danger where you might not expect it
  • Verbal skills to prevent or deescalate a confrontation
  • Strikes, including punches, kicks, knees, and elbows
  • How to avoid being dragged to the ground
  • Grappling techniques that are useful if you find yourself on the ground
  • How to defend yourself with improvised weapons or objects in your environment

During a self-defense class, you will practice physical skills alone and with a partner. Practicing with a partner provides a sense of what real physical contact with an attacker may feel like.

Many self-defense schools teach Krav Maga. Developed by the Israeli Defense Forces, Krav Maga remains one of the most popular defense systems among military personnel and law enforcement agencies.

What to wear to self-defense classes?

Wear comfortable athletic clothing that allows you to move freely, such as a T-shirt or tank top and leggings, yoga pants, sweatpants, or shorts. Opt for breathable moisture-wicking fabric to minimize sweating.

Where to take self-defense classes near me?

Follow these tips to find the best self-defense classes near you:

  • Decide whether you want to attend women-only classes or co-ed classes.
  • Compare costs from at least three local schools or martial arts studios.
  • Read school and studio reviews on Lessons and Google.
  • Avoid schools that include pre-rehearsed self-defense demos, as these demos typically don't reflect real-world circumstances or outcomes.
  • Visit the class location to confirm it's well-maintained and the staff is professional.
  • Ask about special offers for new students. Some schools offer a free trial class.
  • Take one class to ensure the studio is a good fit for you before enrolling in a multi-week or ongoing program.
  • Get a copy of the membership contract in writing before making a payment.

What questions should I ask self-defense teachers?

Before signing up for a self-defense class, ask the instructor these important questions:

  • How much do your classes cost?
  • Do you require a membership contract, and if so, what does it entail?
  • What is your class schedule?
  • Do you offer any specials for new students?
  • How many people are in a typical class?
  • Are your classes women-only or co-ed?
  • How long does a class last?
  • What should I wear to the class?

Reviews for Berkeley self defense classes

Recent success stories from people in the Berkeley area.
Gabriela C.
Great coach, great people. 100% recommend
GenX Fitness LLC
Lenny
I've tried half a dozen gyms/martial arts schools in Oakland and San Francisco over the years, and I have to say Gary is my favorite coach. A great vibe, the right combination of aggressive and friendly!
MMA Training
Anthony R.
Coach Jackson is awesome. He prepares everything just right. I truly recommend training with him.
Redemption Fitness & Wellness
Gabriel P.
To be honest he does everything great.
Moy’s Boxing lessons
Megan M.
Youssef has been my boxing coach for a couple months now and I absolutely love it! He’s teaching me the techniques behind boxing and helping me gain my skills in this sport. He pushes me past my limits and encourages me to stay motivated. He’s the perfect balance of determined & hardcore and friendly & fun! I would highly recommend him to anyone looking to get into boxing as a sport or just to get a killer workout in!
Bay Area Boxing and Fitness
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