Find a self defense classes in St Louis, MO

Find self defense classes in St Louis, MO

Find self defense classes in St Louis, MO

Confirm your location to see the best self defense classes near you.
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Find self defense classes in St Louis, MO

Confirm your location to see the best self defense classes near you.
Zip code

Top 10 self defense classes in St Louis, MO

Students agree: these teachers are highly rated for knowledge, experience, communication, and more.
Tigers Gym

Tigers Gym

5.0(1)
4 hires on Lessons.com
9+ years in business
Serves St Louis, MO & Online
Bill W. says, "The instructor is a former and undefeated world kickboxing champ" Read more
McArther's Tae Kwon Do & Fitness

McArther's Tae Kwon Do & Fitness

5.0(1)
Top Pro
28+ years in business
Serves St Louis, MO
Brenda J. says, "His code of ethics. His devotion to his students and community." Read more
Champion Boxing

Champion Boxing

Serves St Louis, MO & Online
What makes me unique is my years of experience boxing. I started boxing at the age of 10 and evenutally won a welterweight US championship belt. I was also a personal trainer for years.
St Louis Ki Society

St Louis Ki Society

Serves St Louis, MO
St. Louis Ki Aikido, located in Saint Louis, Missouri, is a martial arts institution that emphasizes personal development. The company's primary teaching is 'Ki Aikido,' which promotes balance, calmness in action, and mindful conflict resolution. They extend their services to all surrounding areas, providing a unique approach to martial arts that is as much a philosophy as it is a physical discipline.
Traditional Tai Chi

Traditional Tai Chi

Serves St Louis, MO
Traditional Tai Chi, based in the St. Louis, Missouri region, invites you to experience the transformative power of this ancient martial art. Our dedicated team offers expert training in a supportive and welcoming environment. We aim to promote mental clarity, physical health, and overall wellness through our comprehensive Tai Chi programs. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced practitioner, join us at Traditional Tai Chi and discover the benefits for yourself.
Tinker Training

Tinker Training

Serves St Louis, MO
Tinker Training, based in Saint Louis, Missouri, is a top-notch fitness and martial arts center. The business, led by fitness professional Matt Tinker, is committed to promoting health and transformation in individuals ready to invest in their well-being. Tinker Training operates with a dedication to personal growth, catering to individuals in and around the Saint Louis area. They offer personal training and martial arts instruction, aiming to make a positive impact on their clients' lives.
Lloyd Gardner's Karate

Lloyd Gardner's Karate

Serves St Louis, MO
Lloyd Gardner's Karate, located in Florissant, Missouri, is a well-established and respected establishment in the local community. Dedicated to providing high-quality karate training, they cater to residents in Florissant and the surrounding areas. They are conveniently located next to Enterprise Leasing on Lindbergh, making it easy for anyone interested in learning and growing in the art of karate to join.
ATA Martial Arts- St. Ann

ATA Martial Arts- St. Ann

Serves St Louis, MO
ATA is the leading martial arts program in the country. Students are able to develop coordination, strength, self esteem, discipline, honesty, integrity, communication and leadership skills all while earning a black belt. Our programs are adjusted to meet the needs of all students with and without disabilities. I love to be part of students setting goals and achieving them!
Aikido St. Louis

Aikido St. Louis

Serves St Louis, MO
Aikido St. Louis, located in Hazelwood, Missouri, and surrounding areas, offers official Aikikai Aikido. With experienced instructors like Ranya Iqbal and Marcelo Sanchez, both 3rd Dan Fukoshidoin, the company ensures top-quality training in Aikido. Engage with them to explore the path of harmony with the spirit and foster peace, wisdom, and strength.
Moo Sul Kwan

Moo Sul Kwan

Serves St Louis, MO
Moo Sul Kwan, also known as the American Martial Arts Sports & Education Association, is a premier martial arts institute located in Saint Louis, Missouri. With an impressive legacy dating back to 1969, they have been educating and training enthusiasts in self-defense and fitness. They offer a comprehensive range of martial arts disciplines including Tae Kwon Do and Karate. Their expertise extends to both children and adults, fostering a family-oriented environment that's open to all willing learners.

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 St Louis self defense classes

Recent success stories from people in the St Louis area.
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