Self-defense course: what women should do if attacked
This past weekend my granddaughter and I took a Women’s Self-Defense course offered by Golden Harmony Fitness in Culpeper, sister studio to Stonewall Abbey Yoga in Sperryville. I gave my granddaughter this course as a Christmas gift and am very glad I did. Graduating from college in December and embarking on a career in public relations/marketing will more than likely pull her to a metropolitan area, a good distance from the protection and safety of Rappahannock and her parents. Should that be the case, I wanted her to be as prepared as possible to protect herself in a hostile situation, much like we read in the papers every day resulting in young, vulnerable women being brutalized or worse yet, killed.
To say that this was an interactive course would be putting it mildly. It was not only informative, but intense at points, with instruction in what to do if attacked from the rear by a grab to your person, a choke hold around your neck or a knife at your throat, to name a few. Two days of hand-to-hand confrontation with your partner introduced and refined the skills needed to, at the very least, incapacitate your attacker enough to allow you to get away. Both of us were surprised at how many things we can do to protect ourselves.
Under the expertise of lead instructor, Gordon Wicks, and capable instructors Aric Conto, Eddie Norlander and Tommy Lyons we ran the course of kicking, flipping, dipping, slipping and other techniques needed to survive an unwanted confrontation. What an invaluable experience it was! Every young woman should experience this course hopefully before they graduate high school but definitely before they venture into living on their own.
In addition to this type of offering, they have courses for the entire family. Children can learn kung fu and yoga. Family Fun Fitness blends children and adults in a fun active fitness session. I have been training under Gordon’s watchful eye for six months now and have corrected back issues that before plagued me with severe pain and have become more fit in the process. Susan Huff and her staff of experienced yoga instructors add a variety of challenge and relaxation to my yoga flexibility. Other offerings of Qigong and Jiu Jitsu/Judo, Pilates and even Stand-Up Paddle Boarding are also available.
What better environment to additionally prepare for the rigors of school sports? I feel very lucky to live in Rappahannock County. Not only do we have beautiful views, great restaurants, world class music/arts events and terrific civic organizations but we have a little gem of which a lot of folks may not be aware. Stonewall Abbey/Golden Harmony Fitness is at the top of that list. Take a look at their websites: www.stonewallabbeyyoga.com or www. goldenharmonyva.com or better yet, visit the studios to meet Gordon and Susan and see for yourself. You will be glad you did. FRAN MOORE KREBSER
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