EMPOWER YOUR BODY, MIND, AND SPIRIT TO PROTECT YOURSELF AND THOSE YOU LOVE.
DON'T JUST WORK OUT
Learning self-defense doesn’t have to be about learning the entirety of a traditional martial art.
Self Defense Fitness is currently Saturdays at 10am.
It’s an all-levels self defense and fitness class based on the ancient art of kung fu. It distills the most practical and easily-accessible techniques into an effective self defense program while keeping the humble and non-macho atmosphere of traditional kung fu. This creates a fun, friendly, and mentally engaging way to harness the confidence that comes from the ability to physically protect yourself. You’ll learn how to use your body in a forceful way and keep your mind calm in stressful situations. No martial arts experience necessary!
What to Expect in Class
Class will begin with dynamic stretching and guided warmups. We’ll then typically work on technique by punching or striking in the air to start learning the basic body mechanics. Next, to make these techniques real, we’ll work with kick-shields or punching bags to practice them at full force. After that, we’ll do some partner drills or light sparring to become familiar with being in contact with another body. This will all be interspersed by defense-oriented exercise rounds. Finally, we cool down and stretch and do some breath training to keep you calm in tense scenarios.
Please wear exercise clothes and bring a water bottle and hand towel!
Past Trauma
Many people looking for self defense classes have been attacked or experienced some other personal trauma. Traumatic events often leave mental scars as well as physical, even if they’re subconscious. Sometimes certain aspects of hands-on drills, or even striking practice can be triggering. At New Orleans Shaolin, we fully understand this. You don’t HAVE to participate in any exercise that makes you feel uncomfortable. Or at any point, if you start feeling uncomfortable, you can simply stop or tell the instructor or your partner and they can give you a modification or alternate activity. Open communication is the key to overcoming stressful triggers and we strive to create this healing atmosphere.
How it’s Different than the Kung Fu Curriculum
Because this class stresses fitness, rather than Shaolin-Do’s expansive curriculum of forms and weapons, it is a low-overhead way to try martial arts for the first time, expand another mind/body practice like yoga, or get back into training if it’s been a while.
How it’s Similar
The main goal of our program is to increase your control over your own body. This can be used for self defense, sports, or just regular life. That’s up to you. Ultimately, as this is a martial arts program, all of our classes are self defense oriented so feel free to try any class if the day/time doesn’t work with your schedule.
Private Small Group Self Defense Classes
Set a custom time for your private small group Self Defense Fitness class, either at our studio in Bywater or at another location.
You’ll learn everything mentioned above in our class description: striking, hands-on drills, getting off the ground safely, etc, surrounded by your friends or colleagues. It’s a fun and practical team-building for your group!
Pricing: $120 for in-studio. $200 for off-site.