Find a self defense classes in Los Angeles, CA

Find self defense classes in Los Angeles, CA

Find self defense classes in Los Angeles, CA

Confirm your location to see the best self defense classes near you.
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Find self defense classes in Los Angeles, CA

Confirm your location to see the best self defense classes near you.
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Top 10 self defense classes in Los Angeles, CA

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

Daria

5.0(1)
Online now
1 hire on Lessons.com
22+ years in business
Serves Los Angeles, CA & Online
Ida A. says, "My 2 young boys (now 11 and 8) have been working with Daria for over a year now. They went from not knowing how to guard their faces to winning PBSC matches! What I love most is my kids are always excited about the different teaching methods. They are never bored and happy to be learning more and more. She also works on plyometric techniques to build speed and agility. I myself did some self-defense/boxing classes with her as well. It was a great workout and really helped me out. I highly recommend her to anyone who is interested in working out with someone who makes every class fun and full of activities." Read more
Ascend And Defend Academy

Ascend And Defend Academy

5.0(2)
Serves Los Angeles, CA & Online
Alison J. says, "I can’t recommend Ascend and Defend Academy enough! I came in as a complete beginner, just looking to learn how to protect myself when I’m out with my 12-month-old. The environment was welcoming, and the training was broken down in a way that felt easy to understand and actually fun. I really appreciate how patient and encouraging the instruction was too. I’m very shy, but I had fun. Definitely a place where beginners like me can feel comfortable while still being challenged." Read more
Coach Julian - Fight Science MMA

Coach Julian - Fight Science MMA

5.0Exceptional(5)
1 hire on Lessons.com
8+ years in business
Serves Los Angeles, CA
Adriana V. says, "Coach Julian is a martial arts encyclopedia; he is well-versed in all forms of combat sports. He is very patient when teaching, and makes his class time fun, yet informative. I highly recommend taking a course with Julian." Read more
Mount Fu Wing Chun Kung Fu Lessons

Mount Fu Wing Chun Kung Fu Lessons

Serves Los Angeles, CA
I started martial arts training in Shorin Ryu Karate. Afterwards, training in Ving Tsun Kung Fu for sixteen years. then taught at instructors levels for 5 years. Competed in tournanament in East coast, and in Texas. Earned ranking in sparring, forms, chi-sau. Trained with famous teachers. https://www.facebook.com/mount.fu.9 Seeing people improve there life.
Boxing Lessons

Boxing Lessons

5.0Exceptional(6)
7 hires on Lessons.com
10+ years in business
Serves Los Angeles, CA & Online
Alexander Z. says, "Very good trainer, he put a lot of time and attention into making sure I had proper technique. You never feel rushed during your lessons and he even took the time to break things down after the lesson. Overall great experience and very educated trainer " Read more
Benny

Benny

Serves Los Angeles, CA
I have years of martial arts training in Kickboxing, Boxing, Jiu-jitsu, and Escrima. I like to focus on teaching students the basic fundamental movements of marital arts.
A*International Security Affiliates

A*International Security Affiliates

5.0(1)
22+ years in business
Serves Los Angeles, CA
Laura A. says, "Instructors are always willing to listen to students and are very patient" Read more
Athena Martial Arts

Athena Martial Arts

5.0(4)
6+ years in business
Serves Los Angeles, CA
Taylor says, "Great instruction. Vince is an amazing teacher. He is really good at walking you through the details step by step and figuring out how to make you better! Highly highly recommend." Read more
Aaron Stone MD Aikido Iaido Wing Chun

Aaron Stone MD Aikido Iaido Wing Chun

Serves Los Angeles, CA
Seeing students improve their posture, health and martial arts abilities.
Street Combat LA

Street Combat LA

16+ years in business
Serves Los Angeles, CA & Online
Full Instructorship in Systema, BJJ, JKD, Expert in Knife & Stick-fighting, Hand-to-Hand Combat, Kick-Boxing, Grappling, MMA and Street Self-Defense. After training in many different martial art systems from all over the world for over 35 years I know what someone needs no matter what style or discipline that they are training in. I can teach certain styles but any style is too limited. You want to learn the principles that lie underneath every fighting style, which are not only physical, but scientific, philosophical and spiritual at the same time. When you learn principles you can apply them anywhere, in any fighting style or everyday life ...

Your self defense questions, answered

Answers to commonly asked questions from the experts on Lessons.com.

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 Los Angeles self defense classes

Recent success stories from people in the Los Angeles area.
Kayla M.
Super knowledgeable, motivating, and patient. Every session is fun, challenging, and I’ve improved so much. Highly recommend!
Ascend and Defend Academy
Del
Working with Coach Rush has great experience for me. Always professional, and you can tell that he does research with his scientific approach to training.
Coach Julian - Fight Science MMA
Carlos H.
Great Experience, Knowledgeable Coach, and Just makes everything fun and easy!
Boxing Lessons
Chelsea K.
I've been training with Vincent for a few years now, and it's always been a great experience. Vincent is a really effective teacher. He always knows how to explain or demonstrate techniques so that they make sense. And I appreciate the way that he manages to challenge me while building foundational skills.
Athena Martial Arts
Alexander
Francisco is very professional, his background in wrestling and his knowledge with boxing combined creates a very effective martial combat. He will work with you on your form and makes sure you do them the right way. Always great sparing session! Would highly recommend!
1v1
DRT
JSF is a great place for the beginner to the advanced mature athlete. JSF will help you and guide you to reach your goals or set ones you didn't know you had. Joey's one on one to group training sessions maximize your training time physically and emotionally. Personally I even the boxing trainiing that is incorporated to stretch my cardio limits.
Joey Speakes Fitness
Anne H.
the technique
Fight school
Greg G.
The friendly, understanding, helpful instructors.
Aikido Kenkyukai International USA
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