Just what is Dynamic Defensive Arts? I’m so glad you asked! In this class, I will be teaching basic self-defense techniques drawn from studying and training in traditional Okinawan Karate. We will be learning various skills (punches, blocks, kicks, etc.), practicing these skills on punching bags, and then going through a series of escape drills with a partner. 

Why is it important to practice the same things over and over again? Two words: muscle memory. Many of these skills are not instinctual. I can tell you from personal experience that when you are in a fighting situation adrenaline takes over and all of the things you’ve learned seem to go out the window. Your body goes into a natural “fight or flight” response and you react on instinct. If you’ve trained your body to move in certain ways due to repetition to the point that you no longer have to think about it, then you will be much more likely to be able to use these skills in a high-pressure, adrenaline-packed situation. It takes many, many repetitions of doing something in order to build that kind of muscle memory. It’s like driving a car. When you first learn to drive, you have to think about every little movement of the wheel and it can easily get overwhelming. It seems a little awkward and difficult and often you over or under-correct your steering. But after doing it a while, you suddenly realize that your hands automatically know how to adjust your steering in order to keep the car in your lane without even thinking about it. That is muscle memory. And that is our goal with practicing these skills and techniques over and over again. 

What can I expect to gain from coming to your class? You can expect to experience physical benefits such as increased strength, speed, and flexibility, as well as better balance and coordination (all SO important to keep working on as we age!). You can also expect to gain a sense of confidence and mental preparedness to know how to face a threatening situation should it ever arise. 

Who is this class suitable for? It is suitable for anyone! The class is adjustable to any age or fitness level. You start where you are and build from there. There is no such thing as “I’m too old” or “I’m not in good enough shape” in this class! I have also had quite a few students through the years with autism or ADD/ADHD who have done very well and have seen great improvements in their focus, balance, and coordination through this type of class. We do have a lower age limit (11) for this particular class right now because there does need to be some level of body awareness and ability to focus for an hour- long class, but there is no upper age limit! And it is a great activity for families to do together. I initially started karate because of my sons — two of them are now second- degree black belts!

So what time is class? Right now, we are offering this class at 2 different times: Mondays at 10:30am and Wednesdays at 5pm. 

I really hope to see you there!