Find a self defense classes in Philadelphia, PA

Find self defense classes in Philadelphia, PA

Find self defense classes in Philadelphia, PA

Share a few details and we'll show you the best self defense classes in your area.
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Disciplines interested in

Find self defense classes in Philadelphia, PA

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 Philadelphia, PA

Students agree: these instructors are highly rated for knowledge, experience, communication, and more.
The Martial Way

The Martial Way

New on Lessons
26+ years in business
Serves Philadelphia, PA
With the Martial Way, you will learn practical self-defense using the principles of Aikido as the foundation and incorporating the real-world application of Aikijutsu. Aikido is a Japanese martial art that uses a person’s weight, energy and momentum – along with take-downs, joint locks and pins – to neutralize the attack, and disarm and control the attacker. Aikijutsu is also a Japanese martial art and part of the family of jujutsu. It is a close combat self-defense system and includes strikes, throws, holds, and paralyzing counter attacks against an enemy. Our dojo brings the best of both worlds – the flow of Aikido and the crash of Aiki
Vallencore Fitness LLC

Vallencore Fitness LLC

5.0Exceptional(14)
Offers online services
18+ years in business
Serves Philadelphia, PA
Darryl J. says, "Down to earth with high energy intense workouts. Charles is the only person that successfully brought me into the gym culture. He’s trained & coached me in capoeira. Body building. We were fortunate to place 1st in our very first men’s physique competition & it’s all due to me following his instructions to the T. What I’m saying is he’s knows what he’s doing & if you listen you will WIN you will reach your GOALS you will not be disappointed. Lifetime friend, trainer & coach! " Read more
Primetime Sports & Arts, Inc.

Primetime Sports & Arts, Inc.

New on Lessons
1 hire on Lessons
36+ years in business
Serves Philadelphia, PA
Our service offers college and professional level workouts. The most enjoyable moment is watching students take their skill set to the next level and how happy they are when they begin to see the resuts in their game.
Moy Yat Martial Intelligence

Moy Yat Martial Intelligence

5.0(2)
1 hire on Lessons
24+ years in business
Serves Philadelphia, PA
Robert S. says, "I love the emphasis on family and relationships. Sifu Hitchman is not only a fantastic teacher of Kung Fu but is also a great mentor to his students. " Read more
CSS Academy

CSS Academy

5.0(1)
Offers online services
24+ years in business
Serves Philadelphia, PA
Mike S. says, "NAR fits my schedule, the lessons are great, and it’s a great value. " Read more
ART OF DEFENSE MARTIAL ARTS

ART OF DEFENSE MARTIAL ARTS

New on Lessons
17+ years in business
Serves Philadelphia, PA
Art of defense will prepare you to deal with confrontation, protecting one’s self in their environment. Learn the Do’s and Don’t’s of deal with a armed/unarmed attack. This class will learn teach you self awareness so that know what’s going on in your environment. Self control to keep calm, so you can think clearly in a intense situation, self discipline to keep your training up, so if you need to use your focus, it will be there for you. And self expression so that you express your feelings to work on them. Overall this class can teach you to be prepared so you can be safe in your own environment. BUT FOR THIS TO WORK YOU MUST PUT IN A LOT O...
Computer Training For Life

Computer Training For Life

New on Lessons
Offers online services
4+ years in business
Serves Philadelphia, PA
Teaching students to use computers in a safe and secure manner is very important. I will give you the tools you need to succeed. I don't need access to your computer for training. We will do everything over the phone using video chat. If you're ready to learn the most effective computer techniques contact me today. I believe we can all succeed from learning basic computer skills. Computers are now and will continue to be the preferred method of accomplishing our daily task. So learning now will help you in the future....
GET PEACED UP BOXING AND FITNESS

GET PEACED UP BOXING AND FITNESS

5.0(1)
Offers online services
4+ years in business
Serves Philadelphia, PA
Alan F. says, "The 1 on 1 training. The crazy intense workout. The knowledge I received about boxing and about what these boxers put their bodies through on day and a Day to train. Gave me a better perspective and respect for the sport and for boxers. I enjoyed every minute of this. Thank you, bro." Read more
Furnace Fitness Training System

Furnace Fitness Training System

New on Lessons
19+ years in business
Serves Philadelphia, PA
I'm an a multifaceted trainer who is driven to motivate people. My training system includes strength, cardiovascular, flexibility, mixed martial art and motivational speaking. I post training videos at least 4 times weekly. I do most of the training online but I also will to do 1 on 1 and group sessions in person. My goal is to train people to become self independent in terms of working out. Helping other people and improving their lives.
Traditional American Combatives

Traditional American Combatives

5.0(4)
14+ years in business
Serves Philadelphia, PA
George M. says, "I liked the concepts and techniques we learned and the history behind all the styles. As well as the the purpose each of the American Combatives holds or has. Good stuff to learn. " Read more

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 Philadelphia self defense classes

Recent success stories from people in the Philadelphia area.
Kyle A.
Charles is an amazing trainer, he knows the intricacies of the musculoskeletal system and how it coordinates with different exercises with different weights. He’s not a trainer that will leave you to your own devices and give you an exercise to do and that’s it. Charles takes the time and the focus to place it on your through every rep and movement, he guides you on the focusing of the particular muscle being worked to achieve the highest quality of work done.
Vallencore Fitness LLC
David H.
The atmosphere at the school is unique. Traditional learning, with Sifu Jay providing invaluable guidance and teaching
Moy Yat Martial Intelligence
Mike B.
Dan is a walking encyclopedia of knowledge. He knows how to apply tried and true techniques to modern situations
Traditional American Combatives
Eileen S.
Since I am a 78 year old woman who is very uncoordinated I was looking for an individual to help me learn tai chi as opposed to taking a class. I wanted to improve my balance as well as core strength. Luke has helped me do both. He has also taught me self defense and meditation skills which have helped me improve my over all self confidence. He is very patient, kind and thoughtful. I look forward to continue working with him in the future.
Goldenlight Institute of Body/Mind Advancement
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