Find a self defense classes in Charlotte, NC

Find self defense classes in Charlotte, NC

Find self defense classes in Charlotte, NC

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

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

Students agree: these teachers are highly rated for knowledge, experience, communication, and more.
Indian Trail Self Defense

Indian Trail Self Defense

5.0Exceptional(5)
2+ years in business
Serves Charlotte, NC
Duncan R. says, "Sensei Long has been my instructor for about seven years at this point, from beginning as a white belt to where I stand now as a black belt. There are few individuals who have had such a profound impact on who I am as a person. He has taught me discipline, valuable life lessons, and how to better understand myself all through the medium of martial arts. In times where I have been frustrated, he has always found an effective way to motivate me to take another step forward. I’ve always felt his attention to detail when teaching and he’s extremely adaptable with each and every student he works with. I’ve never felt him to be a salesman, looking to make a quick buck, this is an individual who is truly passionate about martial arts. There’s no one else I would rather have as my teacher." Read more
Wesley Wheeler

Wesley Wheeler

Serves Charlotte, NC
Unlock your potential with personalized kickboxing and striking classes tailored to your unique goals and skill level. At Wes Martial Arts, I’m a dedicated instructor passionate about empowering students through powerful training, expert guidance, and a genuine love for martial arts. Whether you're a beginner eager to learn the fundamentals or an experienced athlete aiming to compete, my customized approach ensures you progress confidently and safely. A lifelong martial artist, my journey began at age 5 with Taekwondo, where I developed a love for high-speed, head-high kicks and dynamic techniques. By age 7, I discovered kickboxing, dedicati
EDGE Personal Training

EDGE Personal Training

Online now
1 hire on Lessons.com
14+ years in business
Serves Charlotte, NC
Experience one of Charlotte’s best functional training studios within minutes of Uptown. Our personalized approach to fitness and constantly evolving workouts keep your body challenged, your heart rate up and those last five pounds running for the hills. We help our members improve their lives through fitness and healthy eating habits. Without fail if we are able to help our members become healthier, their quality of life improves.
QueFitBoxing

QueFitBoxing

5.0Exceptional(7)
2 hires on Lessons.com
10+ years in business
Serves Charlotte, NC & Online
Jenny A. says, "Coach Q truly excels at what he does, my grandson took several classes with him during his summer vacation. Coach Q was able to gain his trust which helped my grandson give 100% during the training sessions. Coach Q boxing style is patient, motivating and personalized. He is keenly aware of how to bring out the best in his students. Not only did my grandson enjoy it, he will continue taking boxing lessons when he returns home. And every summer he will be training with coach Q. Our family myself his mom and dad are very thankful to have found Coach Q. He not only taught my grandson various boxing techniques but he also help him with building his confidence and self esteem." Read more
Ntense Fitness And Boxing

Ntense Fitness And Boxing

5.0(1)
1 hire on Lessons.com
Serves Charlotte, NC & Online
Lynne L. says, "Working out with DC is a great experience. He focuses on mind and body for a well rounded training session that brings positive results " Read more
Mint Hill Kung Fu

Mint Hill Kung Fu

32+ years in business
Serves Charlotte, NC
We are a traditional Chinese Martial Arts School. The art is still around because it is effective and allows for someone to study the art in Martial art. We have very close ties to our Grandmaster. I want the art to live and the only way is to pass it down.
New Era Youth Fitness LLC

New Era Youth Fitness LLC

5.0(3)
1 hire on Lessons.com
8+ years in business
Serves Charlotte, NC
Jenna W. says, "My experience with Junior was great, he was a great teacher, got straight to work and Helped me have better technique and lose weight." Read more
Eye2Eye Combat

Eye2Eye Combat

32+ years in business
Serves Charlotte, NC
Life is unpredictable, but confidence changes everything. I started Eye2Eye Combat to help people not just defend themselves but truly own their space. Our training isn’t about endless routines or flashy moves—it’s about practical skills that work in the real world. From kids discovering their potential to adults reclaiming their strength, every class builds confidence, sharpens awareness, and empowers action. Martial arts taught me discipline, energy, and intention, and I’m here to share that with you. Let’s transform fear into strength, one step at a time.
360 Taekwondo Academy

360 Taekwondo Academy

12+ years in business
Serves Charlotte, NC
360 Taekwondo Academy, located in Belmont, North Carolina, is a leading martial arts training center for the last 12 years. We offer comprehensive Taekwondo training, focusing on developing skills like self-control, confidence, and leadership. Our programs are designed to enhance physical fitness and mental strength while promoting self-discipline and self-esteem. With a dedicated team of instructors, we provide a safe, uplifting, and fun environment for students to achieve their goals. We also offer a specialized junior's program to help children apply themselves and work hard towards their objectives.
William Driskel

William Driskel

15+ years in business
Serves Charlotte, NC
Welcome to William Driskel Martial Arts in Charlotte, NC! With a focus on personalized instruction, I offer expert martial arts classes tailored to your unique needs and goals. (for more in 9495692942 ) Whether you're a beginner looking to learn self-defense or an advanced student aiming to refine your skills, my one-on-one sessions ensure you receive the attention and guidance required to excel. Join me in building confidence, discipline, and physical fitness through the art of martial arts. Let's embark on this transformative journey together!

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 Charlotte self defense classes

Recent success stories from people in the Charlotte area.
Iryna S.
The coach always finds an individual approach to each participant. Classes teach everyone the skills to protect themselves and others from physical attacks. The coach helps people increase their resilience and develop a more positive understanding of their ability to cope with difficult situations.
Indian Trail Self Defense
Chet W.
I have worked with Q for 10 years. Physical training is always intense with a evidenced based theory behind it. Whether it be boxing,lifting, or conditioning Along with the physical training boxing expertise he is well versed in injury recovery protocols. Fixed my knee and shoulder. He also brings a very psychological aspect to his training which I find useful. The acceptance of discomfort as the path and not letting age be an excuse for not training hard. I haven't met many people like Q who embody the belief that the mind controls what the body does and is capable of. Very David Goggins like aura. It's inspiring just to be around him during training. His sessions make the real world feel like practice.
QueFitBoxing
Prince H.
Did? Still at NEYF! It started off as, “we gone check him out & if not we’ll try to find a gym”. It turned into, “son I believe we’ve found a “hidden gem”! You know that trainer that finds pleasure in seeing his training “work”? That’s Junior! AND he’s inexpensive! Kinda too good to be true! We love it!
New Era Youth Fitness LLC
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