Best Defense Concepts
About
I teach practical and effective self-defense which combines the best techniques and concepts from krav maga, kenpo karate, hapkido, escrima and boxing. I focus on what the student wants to learn, and then try to match the best techniques to the student's needs and strengths.
My classes can focus on everything from defending against the most common unarmed street attacks, to dealing with weapons (clubs, guns and knives), or just focusing on learning a more selective skill, such as how to utilize joint locks.
The student tells me if he/she wants a crash course or ongoing lessons, and then we make a plan of action.
Take a look at my website for a list of 5 star reviews from a wide variety of students I have taught over the years.
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I discuss the student's background in martial arts, what they are looking to gain from the class, and how long they want to take classes.
My first session with a student is free, during which I will teach them a number of different concepts and skills to show them what and how I teach, and to see if this is the type of self-defense that works for him/her.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I've been studying martial arts since 1984, with many years of training in Kenpo Karate, Krav Maga, and Escrima. I also have training in boxing, hapkido, aikido, karate, and some other combatives.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Pricing really depends on whether a student wants a crash course, a fixed number of lessons, or wants to train for an extended period of time, as well as the number of students. The rate for training at the student's location is generally more than if they train at my location, since I have to factor in travel time. Generally I work out an hourly rate based on these factors.
How did you get started teaching?
I began teaching other students during my own training and found I truly enjoyed it. Then in early 2012 I started my self-defense company Best Defense Concepts and I started teaching on my own, which allowed me to teach students what I thought were the most effective self-defense techniques without having to follow someone else's set curriculum.
What types of students have you worked with?
Generally I focus my training on teaching adults and seniors, having worked with students ages 16 through 95. I've worked with individuals, groups, families, seniors centers, as well as some military personnel and law enforcement.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
My wife and I gave a self-defense demonstration at the Arlington Heights Senior Center in 2016, and we found that the event went very well. The audience was engaged and asked great questions. Afterwards we were approached by a couple that had been watching the presentation who told us that they too had taught self-defense for many years ago, and that they felt our presentation was right on the money.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Students need to ask a lot of questions and determine if the instructor and the style of self-defense/martial art is right for them. Taking a free lesson is a good way to start, or even just watching a group lesson to get a feel for what and how the instructor teaches. A student has to be able to feel comfortable with the instructor, be able to easily grasp the concepts being explained, and be taught concepts that are appropriate for that person's skills and abilities.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
What do you want to accomplish? Are you looking for an ongoing class that will give you a set of well-rounded self-defense skills? Are you planning to compete? Do you want to focus on a particular aspect of self-defense or fighting? Do you want to study a specific martial art?
Once you know what you want, try to ask questions of the instructor to see if he/she is going to be able to deliver that information and instruction in a way that is the right for you.