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

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 Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles, CA

Students agree: these instructors are highly rated for knowledge, experience, communication, and more.
MLP Fighting System

MLP Fighting System

New on Lessons
9+ years in business
Serves Los Angeles, CA
Hello, my name is Marcus. I am a martial arts instructor with 30 years of experience. With me you will learn how to adequately defend yourself, whatever situation you may be in. I have a black belt in Kung Fu, and I was an amateur boxer.
Omega Coaching

Omega Coaching

New on Lessons
Offers online services
Serves Los Angeles, CA
I am spirit who's calling is to provide direction and value for those who seek to develop their mind and body. I specialize in personal training, meditation, journaling, breathwork, martial arts, and yoga. The development of your physical body requires mental/emotional changes, thus, it's fundamental to facilitate the simultaneous growth of both. What we'd do is identify where you are and where you'd like to go while maintaining a balance of self-acceptance and self-improvement—unlike the toxicity of the modern self-help movement which is primarily concerned with self-improvement. The end-goal of our work together is to give you the tools nec
Amirboxing

Amirboxing

5.0(1)
1 hire on Lessons
7+ years in business
Serves Los Angeles, CA
Walter L. says, "Admir is helping me get fitt and I never knew I could do a very high muay Tai kick I feel I will advance my game and get the self defense and most importantly my health" Read more
Fight Science MMA

Fight Science MMA

5.0Exceptional(5)
1 hire on Lessons
7+ 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
Athena Martial Arts

Athena Martial Arts

5.0(4)
5+ 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
Self Defense Concepts

Self Defense Concepts

New on Lessons
Offers online services
2 hires on Lessons
17+ years in business
Serves Los Angeles, CA
When the light comes on in the student and they get it. What you teach them.
Marcel Miller

Marcel Miller

New on Lessons
Offers online services
5 hires on Lessons
29+ years in business
Serves Los Angeles, CA
I started teaching when I was 15. Yes, it was a hobby business, but the kids and parents loved it. At that time it was only horseback riding. More serious it became in 2007, when I started it as a professional side business. I tought from young (the youngest kids were 4) to old. My oldest student who I teach the accordion is 83 years old. I teach and always tought business people, from reagular emplyee to managers and executive in business and marketing as well as German for some of my clients who work and travel overseas. Teaching and tutoring was always more than just a job, I truly enjoy giving experience to studens and clients and they ...
Borboa Boxing Club

Borboa Boxing Club

5.0(2)
1 hire on Lessons
17+ years in business
Serves Los Angeles, CA
Giselle A. says, "Loved training with him, very friendly, teaches you all the basics of boxing in just one lesson!" Read more
1v1

1v1

5.0Exceptional(6)
4+ years in business
Serves Los Angeles, CA
Aaron S. says, "My first training was cool, we went over some wrestling offense and defense moves, then did some live sparring and he taught me a lot of technical moves that seem like will work in real life. My second session went over conditioning and more boxing practice. So far I like what he’s teaching me, he’s a cool guy and pushes me to keep going even though I’m tired. Overall a good coach. Thanks Frank! " Read more
Alen Alenkin

Alen Alenkin

New on Lessons
Offers online services
5+ years in business
Serves Los Angeles, CA
Striking and Self Defense Applications from the street to the cage, I have decades of experience and am a USA boxing certified coach with USA Safesport background check and certifications up to date. Offering the following Women's Self-Defense Courses: Specialized instruction designed to address the unique self-defense needs and challenges faced by women. Reality-Based Training: Hands-on approach helps individuals build confidence and muscle memory in a controlled environment. Personal Safety Seminars: Educational sessions that cover a broad spectrum of personal safety topics, including situational awareness, home security, and tra

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 Los Angeles self defense classes

Recent success stories from people in the Los Angeles area.
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.
Fight Science MMA
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
Jonathan T.
My experience with Oscar was amazing, I learned a lot more than I expected in a one hour session. He definitely pushed me past my limits, especially with my conditioning, since it’s been a while since I’ve trained. Overall had a blast training with Oscar.
Borboa Boxing Club
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
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Los Angeles self defense classes by service