--- title: "Women's Self-Defence Course Ipswich | April 2027 | 6 Weeks £30" url: https://www.shockwavejujitsu.co.uk/courses --- # 6-Week Women's Self-Defence Course This is a single-sex, women-only course. It is ideal if you have previously dismissed the idea of yourself as a “martial arts person”, or if you have been put off by the intense atmosphere at other dojos. No previous experience is required and you don't need to be especially fit or do any kind of physical preparation. Just come as you are and be ready to have fun with like-minded people. ## Price **£30** total for 6 weeks (Total price for 6 weeks training). Bring a friend for free. ## Upcoming course - **Dates:** Sundays, 4 Apr–9 May 2027 - **Times:** 10:00–12:00 - **Venue:** Murrayside Community Centre, Ipswich, IP3 9JL - **Instructor:** Terry Tatum ## What you'll learn Practical self-defence including distance management, defences against grabs and strikes, ground defences, breakfalls, and knife-awareness principles. ## Course features - 12 hours practical training with MMA coach, Terry Tatum - Learn in a small class (6–8 students + 4 instructors) - Increase your situational awareness and self-confidence - Practise setting clear boundaries — and following through - Meet like-minded people in an encouraging environment - £30 total for 6 weeks training + bring a friend for free - Support Lighthouse Women's Aid by completing two surveys* ## FAQs ### Why is the course so cheap (£30 for two people)? We believe self-defence should be accessible, especially for women who may feel uncertain about starting something new. While our free 2-hour intro class is a good first step, it's often too short to build real confidence or momentum. This 6-week course is intentionally priced to lower the barrier to getting started, while giving you enough time to make meaningful progress, feel more comfortable in the environment, and see the benefits of consistent training. Including a "bring a friend for free" option is deliberate. Many women are far more likely to try self-defence when they can attend with someone they trust, which helps create a supportive, welcoming atmosphere from the first session. Our hope is that by the end of the course, you'll feel confident, capable, and motivated to continue your training with us — not because of price, but because you don't want to interrupt your progress. ### I'm not fit. Should I get in shape first? No — you don't need to be fit to start this course, and waiting to “get in shape” isn't a reason to delay learning how to protect yourself. The techniques we teach don't rely on strength, speed, or high levels of fitness. Instead, they focus on awareness, positioning, balance, and simple movement — skills that work regardless of fitness level and often improve naturally as you train. ### I'm not very strong. Will I get injured? You don't need to be strong to take part. This is a beginner-friendly, non-competitive course focused on awareness, confidence, and simple techniques — not strength or fitness. Training is co-operative, not aggressive. You won't be trying to hurt anyone, and exercises are introduced gradually and practised at a comfortable pace. As with any physical activity, there is always some risk of minor injury, but safety is a priority throughout the course. We adapt training as needed and encourage everyone to work within their own limits. ### Is this about fighting? No. This course is not about fighting or aggression. Self-defence is about awareness, boundaries, and making safe decisions. We focus on recognising risk early, using your voice confidently, creating space, and leaving situations safely whenever possible. Physical techniques are taught, but only as a last resort — and in a controlled, supportive environment. The emphasis is on simple, effective movements that prioritise escape, balance, and protecting yourself, not 'winning' a fight. Many participants join because they want to feel more confident and prepared, not because they're interested in violence or confrontation. Our approach is calm, practical, and grounded in real-world situations — with safety and wellbeing at the center. ### What will I be learning? Will this stuff work? You'll learn practical self-defence skills based on real-life situations — focusing on awareness, avoidance, boundary-setting, and safely escaping if someone becomes physical. The emphasis is on simple, repeatable strategies that are easier to remember under pressure, rather than complex techniques or fighting. While no training can guarantee outcomes, this approach is designed to improve confidence, awareness, and your ability to respond decisively and get to safety. ### I'm really uncoordinated! Will I be embarrassed? Not at all. This is a beginner's course, and nobody is expected to get things right straight away — none of us did when we started. We aim to create a supportive, non-judgemental environment where you can relax and learn at your own pace. There's no grading or assessment, so you're free to focus on building confidence, trying things out, and even having a bit of fun while learning how to protect yourself. ### I don't want to touch or train with men. Is that okay? Yes — that's absolutely okay. This is a women-only course, and participants train only with other women. The instructors for this course are men, but their role is to demonstrate techniques and provide guidance. You will not be required to train with, spar with, or be touched by an instructor. After demonstrations, you'll work in a pair with another woman to practise at your own pace. Instructor support is given verbally and visually, and physical contact from instructors is not necessary. We understand that comfort and boundaries are important. If you have any concerns or questions before booking, please get in touch — we're very happy to discuss them. ### I don't know what to wear. What is appropriate? Wear whatever you'd normally wear to the gym or a yoga class: loose or stretchy clothing such as leggings or tracksuit bottoms and a comfortable T-shirt. You don't need specialised footwear. Indoor trainers are fine, though many people choose to train in bare feet or grippy socks. ### I don't know where to go? Where will I be training? ## Book https://www.shockwavejujitsu.co.uk/courses