READING
WOMENS
SELF
DEFENCE

Covid-19 update
Firstly thanks for interest in our classes and secondly please accept our apologies for the radio silence over the last few months. Its been a long hard time for everyone, so hopefully you'll understand :)
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So the crux is, we'd love to start courses again but at the moment we don't feel it can be done safely enough, given the covid situation.
Once the situation has calmed down and we feel we are able to operate safely and responsibly, we'll be running courses again.
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As a lot of people have been asking, due to insurance restrictions and the adult nature of some of the content we cover in class, we are only able to offer our courses to those 16 and over.
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If you'd like you'd like to be notified once our next course is announced, please email us using the button below (or at info@readingwomensselfdefence.co.uk) or fill in our Contact Us form. Either way, we'll add you to the list to be contacted when we're up and running again
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Stay safe - The RWSD team
GAIN CONFIDENCE, LEARN TO PROTECT YOURSELF & HAVE FUN!

WHAT TO
EXPECT
Our classes are held in a fun, friendly and informal manner, with an emphasis on learning practical, physical self defence techniques.
We couple this with practices designed to change behaviors, so that everyday activities such as getting in and out of a car, are as safe as they can be.
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We aim to help you change your day to day behaviors so that you'll hopefully never need to use the physical techniques you'll learn.
We all passionately believe that everyone should know how to protect themselves and through this class we hope that we can make a difference to your everyday lives.
Our friendly and fun approach during training helps when dealing with more serious topics covered in our classes.
OUR COURSES
Each class is 1.5 hours long and will have an instructor guided warm up, stretch and cool down.
As well as this every week we will look at something we call "safe falling and recovery" which gradually teaches students how to fall in a safe manner from a slip or being pushed, for example, and then to subsequently recover / get back up quickly and safely, should the situation require it.
We always advise students to wear something comfortable, loose fitting and that you don't mind getting a bit grubby and maybe tugged about a bit.
COST
Our eight week course costs £45 if paid in advance or if you choose to pay upfront on the night it is £55.
We operate an eight week rolling syllabus and each week we will look at various physical techniques to deal with different types of attacks and situations.​
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We look at things such as:
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Escaping grabs from the front & behind
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Basic striking & kicking
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Distancing and timing
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Dealing with and disarming weapons such as knifes
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Strikes to vulnerable points
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Escaping from the floor / being pinned
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Using the environment to your advantage
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Turning every day items into weapons
Frequently asked questions
I can't come every week, can I still come to classes?
How much is your course and how long does it last for?
I'd really like to learn but I'm a bit nervous, is the class scary!?
Not at all and we totally get this, starting anything new can be a little scary! We are a friendly bunch that like to laugh and joke in class. We're here to help you learn something practical but also to have fun doing it. The class has a very diverse group of ladies and everyone is so friendly and welcoming. We are regularly told by our students that they have tried other classes before but have left as they didn't feel comfortable, but with us they feel right at home! If you're feeling a little nervous or shy then please get in touch and we will be happy to talk to you about any concerns. You're also welcome to bring a friend or family member to watch for the first session if that makes you feel more at ease.
What should I wear?
How long are the classes?
What can I expect to be doing during a class?
Will I get hurt?
Do you train with weapons?
Do I need to be physically fit and / or strong?
I have a pre-existing injury and / or illness, can I still participate in classes?