Find a self defense classes in Baltimore, MD

Find self defense classes in Baltimore, MD

Find self defense classes in Baltimore, MD

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 Baltimore, MD

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 Baltimore, MD

Students agree: these instructors are highly rated for knowledge, experience, communication, and more.
U.S. Combative TaeKwonDo

U.S. Combative TaeKwonDo

New on Lessons
29+ years in business
Serves Baltimore, MD
It is my on style fixed to each person them selves. Easy to learn, build confidence, health, and to achieve goals. I am a 5 time inductee of Martial Arts Hall of Fame. Teaching
Kenwood Karate

Kenwood Karate

5.0(1)
2 hires on Lessons
7+ years in business
Serves Baltimore, MD
Joshua S. says, "Sensei Steve is a real pro. He takes a vested interest in making his students better and truly learn self defense. He is a genuine person and a bit on the comical side to boot, making for each lesson to be something I look forward to. " Read more
#BestLessons

#BestLessons

New on Lessons
Offers online services
Serves Baltimore, MD
"The Harder You Work, The Luckier You'll Get" Enjoy Helping & Giving Back
Fight Champs

Fight Champs

New on Lessons
Offers online services
7+ years in business
Serves Baltimore, MD
You have to love what you do. Once you're a Boxer, you're always a Boxer, because Boxing is a mental sport; 90% mental/10% physical, so you take it with you everywhere in life you go. The world is a Boxing ring. When you're able to make people see that and understand that, they apply it to every day life. If I could tell them anything as it applies to Boxing inside of the ring, my philosophy is pretty-much the same as Bruce Lee's "Be water my friend." I fought as a decorated National Amateur Boxer for 10 years and also as a professional until injuries ended my career before it really got started, so I bring 28 years of ring experience and Box...
Arundel Aikikai, LLC

Arundel Aikikai, LLC

5.0Exceptional(5)
Top Pro
10+ years in business
Serves Baltimore, MD
Ari Z. says, "A fun and informative environment, paired with Christian's vast knowledge, welcoming and fun-loving attitude and superb scaling by ability makes for a thoroughly enjoyable time. " Read more
Three Dragons Karate

Three Dragons Karate

5.0(1)
1 hire on Lessons
Serves Baltimore, MD
Seleta H. says, "I absolutely love it! He has the character, demeanor and patience. His instructions are always clear in talk and in action. He makes you feel comfortable, confident and reassures you that you can do anything! His energy is refreshing in times such as these and its appreciated ☯️" Read more
ROLLSTAR Jiu Jitsu Academy

ROLLSTAR Jiu Jitsu Academy

5.0Exceptional(7)
Offers online services
2 hires on Lessons
10+ years in business
Serves Baltimore, MD
Uthman E. says, "Excellent teacher, clean good environment." Read more
RDKD

RDKD

New on Lessons
16+ years in business
Serves Baltimore, MD
RDKD is known for teaching real self-defense and real Martial arts. Founded by well know Martial Master from the Shogun Karate Club (Baltimore) and 2015 Martial artist of year (Maryland) Donald D.Rooks 4th Dan. When I have to tell them of their improvements, because they've been working so hard at getting better, they don't realize how good they are getting.. But I see it..
JINWAUN ELITE ACADEMYOFMARTIAL ARTS

JINWAUN ELITE ACADEMYOFMARTIAL ARTS

New on Lessons
30+ years in business
Serves Baltimore, MD
Martial arts, spiritual growth through energy and mental connection, building character, discipline and strength and confidence, understanding elements of earth, mind, body, heart , spirit as well as oneself.
Calm Wing Chun Kung Fu

Calm Wing Chun Kung Fu

New on Lessons
Serves Baltimore, MD
What's exciting to is seeing the personal growth of the practitioner

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 Baltimore self defense classes

Recent success stories from people in the Baltimore area.
Michael J.
Christian is an awesome instructor. He is entertaining and very patient teaching Aikido. Highly recommended
Arundel Aikikai, LLC
Hammad
Explains things clearly and has a logical progression to his lessons so they build on top of each other and create chains of movements instead of random pieces.
ROLLSTAR Jiu Jitsu Academy
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