Find a self defense classes in Cicero, IL

Find self defense classes in Cicero, IL

Find self defense classes in Cicero, IL

Confirm your location to see the best self defense classes near you.
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Find self defense classes in Cicero, IL

Confirm your location to see the best self defense classes near you.
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Top 10 self defense classes in Cicero, IL

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

Slick City Boxing

5.0Exceptional(7)
2 hires on Lessons.com
3+ years in business
Serves Cicero, IL & Online
Octavio V. says, "Coach Jeremy is superb in every way. His dedication to the sport and the fundamentals of boxing is unmatched and his passion for teaching is evident. He uniquely tailors training sessions to the level of the fighter and gives you the confidence to make those gains all while pushing you to reach your fullest potential. He highlights your strengths while also focusing on fixing your weaknesses. Truly the best combination of characteristics you can ask for in a boxing coach." Read more
Predator Muay Thai And Fitness

Predator Muay Thai And Fitness

5.0Exceptional(22)
15 hires on Lessons.com
15+ years in business
Serves Cicero, IL
Amanda W. says, "So, I was looking to sign up for Muay Thai and came across Robs profile on Lessons. I reached out to him and not only was he very responsive, he had excellent experience. I couldn’t be happier. If anyone is looking to do Muay Thai, Boxing, or whatever it may be I’m telling you Rob is your guy. I promise you won’t be disappointed, don’t second guess it click on Robs profile he is awesome! You’ll be so happy you did. " Read more
Kicking Dragon’s Circle Martial Arts

Kicking Dragon’s Circle Martial Arts

5.0Exceptional(8)
1 hire on Lessons.com
28+ years in business
Serves Cicero, IL
Amy M. says, "Eric is an amazing teacher. Patient, funny, and kind. I love that he adapts moves to work for MY body (I'm a little teapot, short and stout), and also that he fosters an atmosphere of respect and inclusion. He uses bits and pieces from many traditions to create a toolkit for each person that is both fun to learn and practical to use. I've taken lessons with him for years and brought my teen-aged niece and young daughter to learn self-defense as well. I can't recommend Kicking Dragon's Circle enough!" Read more
Underground Fitness Krav Maga

Underground Fitness Krav Maga

5.0Exceptional(23)
4+ years in business
Serves Cicero, IL & Online
Binyomin W. says, "Great momentum when teaching. Connected well with the students, Built confidence. Used lots of positive energy. The students responded week to coach." Read more
Urban X Self Defense Systems

Urban X Self Defense Systems

5.0(1)
2 hires on Lessons.com
10+ years in business
Serves Cicero, IL
Sidney W. says, "He is the best Martial Arts teacher I know. I love his technique and I have referred him to other parents. 5 STARS. He’s the best." Read more
Coach Marcell

Coach Marcell

11+ years in business
Serves Cicero, IL & Online
TRAIN LIKE THE PROS. Learn the techniques and training methods that pro-fighters use to prepare for bouts. You’ll gain some life-changing skills and get in the best shape of your life. Proven Experience: With years of training with world champions in boxing and coaching successful amateurs, I have the skills and knowledge to help you improve your technique, strength, and overall performance. Customized Training Plans: I understand that each athlete is unique. I create tailored training programs that align with your goals, whether you’re a beginner looking to learn the basics or an experienced boxer aiming to refine your skills. Supportive
United States Midwest Kungfu

United States Midwest Kungfu

5.0(1)
1 hire on Lessons.com
43+ years in business
Serves Cicero, IL
Michael says, "The real deal" Read more
Next Level Wrestling, Inc

Next Level Wrestling, Inc

5.0(2)
1 hire on Lessons.com
Serves Cicero, IL
Ruthie O. says, "My son isn't easily won over, but he quickly warmed up to Coach Brian. According to him, instead of saying "do XYZ like me", Coach Brian tapped into figuring out how he learns and what he is good at and teaches accordingly." Read more
Axé Academy

Axé Academy

5.0(3)
Top Pro
16+ years in business
Serves Cicero, IL
Martha C. says, "Professor Bambu is knowledgeable, well prepared, witty, and insightful. A highly experienced practitioner who takes his craft seriously. He trains not only your body, but also your thoughts. Despite his advanced rank, he is humble, compassionate, and humorous, creating a welcoming learning environment for all. Take his classes every chance you get. The world has few such teachers." Read more
Personal Progress

Personal Progress

5.0(2)
2 hires on Lessons.com
13+ years in business
Serves Cicero, IL & Online
Ian G. says, "Improves my technique and always gets me into better shape for the season. It is also a great way for me to get an intense workout without losing much time in my schedule. " Read more

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 Cicero self defense classes

Recent success stories from people in the Cicero area.
Clement L.
Coach Jeremy's high boxing knowledge will help anyone trying to get started, getting back to the sport, or advanced fighters. He is very attentive and invests in his student's success. He will teach fundamentals for you to build on and fix any flaws in your fighting style.
Slick City Boxing
Alex M.
Great gym
Predator Muay Thai and Fitness
Sebastian G.
Eric Miller, the head of Kicking Dragon's Circle Martial arts, is a fantastic teacher. I've been training for 30 years and competing in boxing and grappling for 10 years. I reached an impasse while sparring and competing so I reached out to Eric to ask for help. His ability to assess a person's strengths and weaknesses and build off of then is invaluable. I pretty much just go to him now when my coaches don't have any answers. I even signed up at an mma school with a weekly open gym just so I could invite Eric since his school is too far from me. During our first session Eric helped us learn more than we had in the last four weeks. He kind of reminds me of Dean Thomas in the sense that he seems to have an answer for everything except Eric's knowledge goes way beyond just grappling. I can't recommend this school enough!
Kicking Dragon’s Circle Martial Arts
Simcha Zissel S.
Tactical defence with knives and guns, and working under pressure to simulate what it would be like in a real fight.
Underground fitness Krav maga
Jaclin
We were very pleased with our first session with Coach Daly. He determined our son's personality from the start and understood the best way to approach and coach him on his wrestling needs. We,as well as our son, are looking forward to more sessions with Daly.
Next Level Wrestling, Inc
Michael W.
The instruction is great, and the instructor cares about his craft and his students.
Axé Academy
Becca A.
Coach Joshua has been outstanding with our family! Started with general fitness for my husband and I but ended up teaching our son boxing aswell. It's been such encouraging experience and coach has really surpassed expectations.
Personal Progress
Nick W.
Miguel’s transformed my martial arts experience and taken it to a level that I wouldn’t have imagined in a short time span. I’ve gotten into a great shape and have noticed some great improvements in both my mental and physical health thanks to Miguel
Martial Science Boxing/Kickboxing Fitness
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