These days there are many opportunities to learn self defense through classes and courses. Virtually all major towns and cities in western countries have optiona available to individuals.

Many people autometically think that they have to get involved in Martial arts and that certainly is not the case.

You can learn Self Defense by attending a course as and whn you can fit it in. There is no need to commit yourself to classes 3 to 4 times per weeek.

When you learn Self Defense it should consist of very simple techniques made up from gross motor skills. These are simple body movments that virtually all people are capable of carrying out.

The techniques have to be simple because in a high stress situation, most people are not capable of carrying out fine motor skills, these are complex or fine movements.

A sitaution that requires you to protect yourself is complex enough without you even trying to perform complex movements so do make the situation any more difficult than it already is.

After you have made the decision to learn Self Defense and you have attended a class or two, you will be very surprised at how dangerous you can be. You will be shocked at how much damage you could inflict on another person in a situation of self defense.

Courses are a great boost to your confidence and self esteem as you begin to realise that you can make a difference.

Many people make the decision to return and repeat courses just to top up their skills and their confidence.

Make a concious decision to learn Self Defense and then back it up with action.

Malcolm Bale (Alberta Self Defense and Jiu Jitsu Calgary)