Find a self defense classes in Washington, DC

Find self defense classes in Washington, DC

Find self defense classes in Washington, DC

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

Disciplines interested in

Find self defense classes in Washington, DC

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 Washington, DC

Students agree: these instructors are highly rated for knowledge, experience, communication, and more.
AKSystema51

AKSystema51

5.0(2)
Offers online services
3 hires on Lessons
13+ years in business
Serves Washington, DC
Brett B. says, "Class act and professional! Great coach!" Read more
Perry Inc

Perry Inc

New on Lessons
5+ years in business
Serves Washington, DC
Hello my name is Bobby Perry I have 30 plus years of martial arts experience with twenty students that I trained to blackbelt. Some of the martial arts I have studied include Combat Kuntao, Aikido, Balintawok, Boxing and Ju Jitsu. When you join the team we’ll have a talk about how far you want to go on your martial journey. We be have a specialized program that’s designed to get you your desired martial in the most efficient and effective way. Along the way we will sweat, have fun and good conversation.
Triad Martial Arts & Self Defense

Triad Martial Arts & Self Defense

New on Lessons
20+ years in business
Serves Washington, DC
Martial arts and self-defense done well lead to a more meaningful life because everybody is fighting something! We offer FREE martial arts and self-defense training by a lifelong martial artist and Blauer Tactical Systems SPEAR-certified personal defense readiness coach serving the Lanham/Greenbelt/Bowie area for fifteen years. (See https://blauerspear.com/ for more information.) We care about your development as a person and want to make good people safer. That's why we do what we do....
Positive Self Defense (PSD)

Positive Self Defense (PSD)

5.0(2)
Offers online services
4 hires on Lessons
19+ years in business
Serves Washington, DC
Nikki S. says, "very infomative and empowering " Read more
#BestLessons

#BestLessons

New on Lessons
Offers online services
Serves Washington, DC
"The Harder You Work, The Luckier You'll Get" Enjoy Helping & Giving Back
Boxing/ Muay Thai Trainer

Boxing/ Muay Thai Trainer

New on Lessons
Offers online services
6+ years in business
Serves Washington, DC
Hello there My name is Tafon Nchukwi. I am a UFC Light heavyweight Competitor. I have trained and worked with people from zero experience to the highest level in Competition. If you are looking to learn to defend yourself or looking to jump into Competition. you have come to the perfect place. Depending on what you goals are will determine how we structure your sessions. Please feel free to contact me for more info looking forward to hearing from you.
Master Trainer

Master Trainer

5.0Exceptional(9)
Offers online services
Serves Washington, DC
Alisa G. says, "Got started." Read more
Coacherbo Boxing

Coacherbo Boxing

5.0(2)
11 hires on Lessons
19+ years in business
Serves Washington, DC
Andrew T. says, "Coach is incredibly and supportive of new students. He’s great at starting with the fundamental and building up as student’s progress. And he is passionate about both boxing and teaching." 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 Washington self defense classes

Recent success stories from people in the Washington area.
Ashlie H.
AKSystema51
Barry P.
It's practically and easily usable the same day you learn especially if you unfortunately have to be in a situation to use it. Besides the physical skill set you have receive the mind set to deal with critical life scares.
Positive Self Defense (PSD)
Samuel S.
Great trainer, I had a lot of fun training with him and more importantly achieved some of my fitness goals and progressing!
Master Trainer
Mike S.
Coacherbo is a outstanding coach very patient supportive motivational I learned so much about the art of boxing
Coacherbo boxing
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