Find a self defense classes in Cambridge, MA

Find self defense classes in Cambridge, MA

Find self defense classes in Cambridge, MA

Share a few details and we'll show you the best self defense classes in your area.
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Find self defense classes in Cambridge, MA

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 Cambridge, MA

Students agree: these instructors are highly rated for knowledge, experience, communication, and more.
Bob Lynn's Kenpo Karate

Bob Lynn's Kenpo Karate

New on Lessons
Serves Cambridge, MA
I love seeing the faces of my students after I tell then how GREAT they were doing ? The empowerment of developing students. We as Martial Artists take it for granted....but when you witness the growth of these students, its Invaluable........
Rick Wong's Chinese Martial Arts Center

Rick Wong's Chinese Martial Arts Center

5.0Exceptional(5)
1 hire on Lessons
32+ years in business
Serves Cambridge, MA
Robin K. says, "I'm excited to be writing about my experiences at Rick Wong's Chinese Martial Arts Center. Classes focus on personal improvement in a welcoming and supportive environment. In my adult class, there is a wide range of ages, fitness, experience, and abilities. Students have included extremely fit people in their 20s up to and including elderly or impaired people in their 80s. Rick's strong understanding of the body encourages good practice and minimizes the chance of injury. As a large-ish middle-aged woman, I find the content of classes are challenging but definitely achievable. Rick creates an environment that fosters learning, is non-competitive and non-toxic. Other students are encouraging and supportive. Rick is a kind and patient teacher who works well with students of all levels. More experienced students will recognize and appreciate Rick's depth of knowledge, while beginners can rest assured that they will be welcomed and treated respectfully. Whether you're a complete novice who is curious about Tai Chi or an experienced practitioner, Rick has a lot to offer. " Read more
Villari’s Martial Arts Centers

Villari’s Martial Arts Centers

New on Lessons
Offers online services
49+ years in business
Serves Cambridge, MA
What make me most excited about teaching Martial Arts is watching students grow, reach milestones and break barriers. I love to see the confidence that it instills. In my 28 years in the Martial Arts I've seen some amazing transformations, from students on the spectrum, having temper tantrums who became strong confident adults, to kids so shy they cried when asked to use their voices becoming outspoken, to women growing confident enough to start their own business or chase their political dreams. I have a 7th Degree Black Belt in Shaolin Kempo Karate, which is the style I teach. It is a blended art which includes Kung fu, kempo, karate, Jiu...
Alain Khnaisser

Alain Khnaisser

New on Lessons
14+ years in business
Serves Cambridge, MA
Master in wushu kungfu and chinese boxing. - Ex lebanese national team fighter competed in multiple world championships and olympic asian games. - Currently Head coach of the national lebanese team in Sanda chinese boxing - More than 15 year’s experience in teaching kids and adults in multiple types of martial arts. Certified ski coach - Ex team lead of a racing ski team - Multiple experiences in difficult type of skiing.
Martial Arts Is Life

Martial Arts Is Life

New on Lessons
8+ years in business
Serves Cambridge, MA
Sharing and helping students achieve they goal and beyond... everybody learns and fight in a unique way it's a pure form of self expression.
Boston Karate Institute

Boston Karate Institute

5.0Exceptional(6)
11+ years in business
Serves Cambridge, MA
Charul says, "Amazing " Read more
Cape Gun Works

Cape Gun Works

New on Lessons
11+ years in business
Serves Cambridge, MA
We have a state of the art indoor facility, large classroom, and simulator for scenerio based training. We are happy to have competent instructors, who can help you attain your firearms training goals toward competency, cometition, and self defense. We also offer non-firearm self defense training in the form of empty hand, Knife, and stick. Here are some other classes we offer: Countering the Mass Shooter threat Stop the Bleed CPR Basic Pistol (LTC) Intro to Pistol MA Law Seminars Concealed Carry and Home Defense Utah Non-Resident Women's Basic Pistol (LTC) We enjoy educating people in the proper and safe gun handling as well as efficiency ...
BMMAC .Balanga Martial Arts Center

BMMAC .Balanga Martial Arts Center

New on Lessons
1 hire on Lessons
10+ years in business
Serves Cambridge, MA
Cardio kickboxing lose weight and tonific your body, the best training and selfie defense and workout
Martial Arts

Martial Arts

New on Lessons
24+ years in business
Serves Cambridge, MA
I've been doing Martial Arts for many years. I've had and been around some of the best GrandMasters and Masters. I'm also going to be teaching in New Bedford at The Rec Center on Saturday 11 until 5pm
No Weapon Needed Martial Arts

No Weapon Needed Martial Arts

New on Lessons
43+ years in business
Serves Cambridge, MA
No Weapon Needed offers a one on one look into your self defense needs for this modern world we live in. With over 45 years of martial arts experience in various different styles and lineage holder of Tu Shou Arts /No Weapon Needed, some of our accomplishments and works in the community can be veiwed online at www.noweaponneeded.com

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 Cambridge self defense classes

Recent success stories from people in the Cambridge area.
Carole C.
I was curious about tai chi, but wasn’t even sure what it was. I had heard that it was good for flexibility, balance, strength and relaxation. With more than a little nervousness and self-consciousness, I attended one of Rick Wong’s beginner classes. I was immediately welcomed into the group. After some stretching and warming up, Rick had us begin with very simple movements that he both demonstrated and explained. Every week we built on what we had practiced, and within a few months, we had learned a complete form. In addition to being a martial arts master, Rick is a practicing physical therapist who understands how the body moves. Not only is Rick a very knowledgeable teacher, he is very patient and kind. He never puts anyone on the spot, and he provides a lot of helpful information, including very useful explanations of the martial arts origins of various movements. Rick has many long-time students whose loyalty is a testament to his teaching ability, friendly demeanor and good humor. I highly recommend Rick Wong’s tai chi classes!
Rick Wong's Chinese Martial Arts Center
Janhvi K.
Good
Boston Karate Institute
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