It’s best to be prepared
Fitness studio teaching the basics in how to fend off threats
Sunday nights are a busy time of the week at StudioFit fitness studio, with members of the public crowding in, eager to learn the beginning elements of self-defence.
“I already knew some basics before taking the class, but I wanted to learn more so that I feel safer out there,” said student and StudioFit member Rachel Tooker.
StudioFit owner Jennifer McNutt teaches the class with Joan Helson, a self-defence instructor with more than 20 years experience in martial arts.
After hearing several of her students had encounters or threatening experiences where they were unsure how to react, McNutt wanted to host classes that anyone could attend. “We don’t teach anything crazy in terms of self-defence, it’s about the basic principles that everyone should know,” said McNutt. “I want people to know what to do before an incident happens.”
The basics McNutt and Helson teach their students include how to avoid getting hit, breaking a hold if someone grabs them and how to properly use pinches and pressure points, all of which are intended to allow someone to disengage from a threat and escape before the situation escalates.
The class is open to men and women of all ages, and participants
all have reasons for wanting to learn more about how to protect themselves.
“I was tired of everyone telling me it’s not safe to walk around alone,” said Amy, a student who asked that her last name be withheld.
Another took the class, “because after a less than pleasant separation I had to make sure I wasn’t scared walking around anymore.”
Others are making sure they feel safe before they start new chapters in their lives.
The current class ends June 30, but McNutt is planning to hold additional classes for the remainder of the summer, and enjoys the one-on-one opportunity she gets with her clients.
“I love it, I get to hear things like how their day went. I learn a lot about them and what they want and need to get from their training.”
Anyone interested in training classes at StudioFit will find information at www.studiofitltd.ca or by calling 902-843-5110.