Rather than sit at home too afraid of the big, bad world, enrol yourself in a self defence class to learn basic combat techniques. These skills will make you feel safer when you're out knowing that you can defend yourself in an event of an attack. Here are five places in KL to toughen up
MuayFit
Offers a range of martial arts classes such as krav maga, Systema (a form of defence against attackers from any position), Urban Warrior Knife Fighting (learn how to use any object as a defence weapon) and submission grappling. If you’re unsure about committing yourself to a class, you’re welcome to sign up for their complimentary introduction classes. Just give them a call to book your slot.
C-27-01 & C-27-06, 3 Two Square, 2 Jalan 19/1, Petaling Jaya (03 7960 4761); B-1-9 IOI Boulevard, Jalan Kenari 5, Puchong (03 8080 4588/www.muayfit.com)
Jak Othman’s Kickboxing
Trained under international master Jak Othman and his group of trainers, you can take up kickboxing here or opt to go the traditional route and join the silat classes.
78-3 (3rd Floor), Jalan SS15/4D, Subang Jaya (013 362 6561/www.jakickboxing.com)
TNT Kickboxing
Aside from kickboxing, this popular spot at Desa Sri Hartamas offers women’s self defence classes. A large percent of their kickboxing clientele are female, but the moves here are hardcore.
9-1, Jalan 26A/70A, Desa Sri Hartamas (03 6201 2342/www.tntkickboxing.com)
Escobar
This place specialises in Brazilian jujitsu, a non-violent martial art and self defence system that focuses on grappling and ground fighting based on principles of leverage and balance. When done correctly it can make a smaller, weaker person defend his or herself against a stronger assailant.
Lot 2-2, Jalan Solaris 5, Solaris Mont Kiara, KL (017 317 2127/www.escobarbjj.com).
Aikido Shudokan
Aikido is a Japanese martial art that focuses on redirecting the force of the attack rather than attacking head on and is said to require very little strength. The women’s self defence class here is taught based on aikido principles.
6-2, Jalan Dagang SB 4/2, Taman Sungai Besi Indah, Seri Kembangan (03 8948 6462); D-37-1, Jalan Teknologi 3/9, Bistari De Kota, Kota Damansara (www.aikidoshudokan.my)
