Self-Defense
Meet other local Self-Defense practicers. Gather and discuss various self-defense methods and trade training tips.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Check out self-defense events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.
Discover all the self-defense events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.
Absolutely! Find self-defense events near your location here. Connect with your local community and discover events within your area.
Self-Defense Events Today
Join in-person Self-Defense events happening right now
Free Self-Defense Class – Maryland Systema (Takoma Park)
Have you been thinking about trying self-defense training, but do not want a loud, aggressive, or overly competitive environment?
This free intro class is a simple way to get started.
Maryland Systema offers practical self-defense training for adults in Takoma Park with a focus on movement, awareness, breathing, posture, and calm under pressure. This class is designed for beginners and first-timers who want real-world self-defense training in a welcoming setting.
You do not need experience. You do not need to be in top shape. You do not need a martial arts background. You just need to show up ready to learn.
This is not a sport-based class built around winning points, memorizing routines, or trying to look impressive. It is a more practical approach to adult self-defense training that helps you stay balanced, aware, and functional when things feel uncertain.
If you have been searching for self-defense classes in Takoma Park, beginner self-defense near you, or practical self-defense training for adults, this class is a good place to start.
**What you will work on**
* Breathing and staying calm under pressure
* Movement that improves balance and mobility
* Awareness and posture
* Simple partner drills
* Practical self-defense training for beginners
**Who this class is for**
* Adults new to self-defense training
* Beginners looking for a low-pressure class
* People who want practical self-defense instead of sport martial arts
* Adults in Takoma Park, Silver Spring, Rockville, and nearby areas looking for realistic self-defense classes
**What to wear**
Please wear comfortable workout clothes. No uniform is required.
**Why start with this class**
This free intro class gives you a chance to experience the training, meet the group, and see whether Maryland Systema is the right fit for you before joining regular weekly classes.
**RSVP**
Reserve your spot and come try a beginner-friendly self-defense class in Takoma Park.
Introductory Clinic
As a reminder, since Freedom Plaza is under construction, we will meet at the plaza in front of The International Trade Center near the National Children's Museum (on Pennsylvania Ave).
We'll begin with going over a few drills (varies week to week). The skills we drill will be for the first 30 minutes.
For the second half, we will casually skate down the bike lanes on Pennsylvania Avenue from the plaza to the U.S.Capitol and stop at 3rd St. and then skate back the same route.
This route is about 2 miles in total and is perfect for those who are new to skating in the city but feel comfortable on skates in a parking lot or roller rink. This is also great if you wish to start with shorter routes to increase your physical fitness or stamina for some of the other routes. This is an excellent opportunity to prepare to skate with others on the road. You will also get to meet skaters who will arrive for the Intermediate and Advanced skate routes following the introductory skate.
This is great training to feel prepared for the Tuesday Night and Friday Night Skate!
Route:
[http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=7653831](http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=7653831)
Inline skates (rollerblades), roller skates (quads), bicycles, unicycles, skateboards, longboards and other similar modes of transportation are welcome to join.
Helmet and pads are required. Skate at your own risk.
Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the session
Learn Heart based Group Meditation on Sundays in MD
Discover the path to stress management, life's tranquility, and self-improvement through Heartfulness Meditation. Embrace relaxation, meditation, and emotional detoxification practices to unlock your best self. Join our free sessions every Sunday at 8 AM and Wednesday at 7 / 7:30 PM at various centers in MD and VA. Experience the profound benefits of these simple yet powerful practices. Commit to a few months of meditation and witness the transformative impact firsthand. We eagerly await your presence at these enlightening sessions.
(RENTALS AVAILABLE) Anacostia River Paddle to Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens
This is the first event of the year where you can rent a canoe or kayak. Scroll down for more information on renting from Prince George's County.
Postponing this by a week, so hopefully the forecast is warmer and less breezy. I've adjusted the times so there will still be plenty of water to explore Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens.
We'll shove off from Bladensburg Waterfront Park promptly at 1:30pm and head downstream towards Kenilworth, about two miles downstream. We'll do a loop around the wetlands and hopefully see some early blooms and plenty of birds. Once everyone regroups, we'll turn around and paddle back to Bladensburg, arriving before 4pm to accommodate rental returns.
This is event is suitable for paddleboards (including iSUPs), recreational/touring kayaks, and canoes, but not inflatable kayaks. Everyone must WEAR, not just bring a USCG-approved life jacket or PFD.
**RENTERS**
The Prince George's County Parks Department rents single and tandem kayaks or canoes at this launch. You MUST reserve beforehand (several days before a nice weather weekend). Rentals run from 1pm-4pm. We will start paddling at 1:30 and be back at the ramp just before 4. **As a reminder, this group is geared towards paddlers with at least a modest amount of experience.** We do not offer instruction and highly advise against joining any of these events if you have never paddled before.
[Double check the date and reserve boats here.](https://mdpgparksweb.myvscloud.com/webtrac/web/search.html?Action=Start&SubAction=&_csrf_token=kU6I180Y6V00232Y1Q452Q4D5X5Z545S0A6Y605H5P73595T6I4G035O645C656Q5X4J5C576L5S4B6H4V6R5V4J6P5271544Z565805534O4X53016E4Q5A5A076S405G&begindate=05%2F10%2F2026&enddate=05%2F10%2F2026&type=&subtype=&category=&keyword=&keywordoption=Match+All&features=&quantity=1&secondarycode=&features1=&features2=&features3=&features4=&features5=&features6=&features7=&features8=&blockstodisplay=24&begintime=01%3A00+pm&endtime=04%3A00+pm&primarycode=BWP+Rentals&timeblocksearch=&display=Graphical&layer=42018&module=RN&multiselectlist_value=&rnwebsearch_buttonsearch=yes)
Single Kayaks: $25 for Prince George's and Montgomery County residents; $33 for non-residents
Tandem Kayaks & Canoes: $30 for Prince George's and Montgomery County residents; $39 for non-residents
NOVA JJJ Training (Sterling)
This is our weekly training session. NOVA Jujutsu is a self-defense focused system incorporating Geri (Kicking), Atemi (Striking), Uke (Blocking), Tai Sabakai (Body Movement), Tai Hodoki (Escapes), Kansetsu Waza (Joint Locks), Nage Waza (Throwing), Shime Waza (Choking), Katame Waza (Grappling), Tantojutsu (Knife), Bojutsu (Bo), Kenjutsu (Sword), and Kata (Forms).
Come on down to a class and see for yourself what this group has to offer. You will get a great workout! You will have an awesome learning experience! You will meet some good people!
We look forward to meeting you.
See you there.
TAGS: japanese, martial arts, self-defense, jujutsu, jujitsu, juijitsu, bujutsu, defense, karate, koppo, kenjutsu, bojutsu, tantojutsu
Sunday soccer at MURCH Elementary School
One time Bob scored a goal with his back
Bring enthusiasm and a good attitude, plus a light and a dark shirt.
No slide tackling, casual play. Warnings, yellow cards, and red cards will be issued based on behavior and play.
GENERAL REMARKS
Given the huge demand, we had to limit the Meetups to a maximum number of players. To play, you must register for each meetup (on a first come first served basis). Once the Meetups are full, there is a waiting list and you can still get a seat if players cancel. If you are not on the list, please do not drop by, as we can only play with a maximum of players.
LATE DROPOFF POLICY:
Late drop-offs will incur a 1-week suspension. Repeated late drop-offs may be subject to increased suspension time. All suspensions handled on case-by-case basis.
COVID19 MEASURES:
IF YOU ARE SICK OR IF YOU HAVE ANY SYMPTOMS, DO NOT SHOW UP.
Yellow Cards: Swearing at other player, hostile physical behavior, slide tackling, unnecessarily aggressive physical play (despite warning).
RED CARDS: Initiating hostile physical conflict with another player. Repeated offense of the above yellow card behaviors.
RULES:
1. Be cordial and nice
2. NO SWEARING AT OTHER PLAYERS
3. NO HOSTILE PHYSICAL ACTIONS (OUTSIDE OF COMPETITIVE TACKLES)
4. NO SLIDE TACKLING
5. YELLOW CARDS: Accumulation of three yellow cards will mean you will not be able to play for a game.
6. RED CARDS: Red card will remove you from the game and you will not be able to play the next game.
7. WAITLISTED INDIVIDUALS: Please avoid coming to the game if you are waitlisted. If players do not make it, the waitlist will be updated based on the time and date of sign up...
PLEASE PAY ATTENTION TO THE RULES.
By agreeing to sign up, you are waiving us and meetup from liability for any injuries.
Mortal Kombat II @ Regal Gallery Place
Let's see a movie this weekend. Haven't even seen a trailer for Mortal Kombat II but I've been a fan of Karl Urban since Xena: Warrior Princess so let's watch him on the big screen.
Your host will be in seat E7. Let's see about getting food afterwards.
Self-Defense Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
Sunday Skate: Eastern Alley Adventure
## 🛼 Sunday Morning Alley Adventure: The "Trashy" East Side Tour
Sometimes you just feel a little behind, a little bumpy, or maybe even a little trashy. This skate is for you! We are ditching the pristine paths to hit a bunch of random alleys throughout the East. Why? Because your wheels are too nice and your feet could use a little more grit. It’s weird, it’s different, and it’s exactly what the weekend ordered.
We’ll be keeping a **slow, chill pace**, so just bring some good vibes and come hang out as we rattle through the city.
***
### **When & Where**
* **Date:** Tomorrow, Sunday, May 10th.
* **Meeting Time:** 10:00 AM.
* **Rolling Time:** 10:10 AM sharp.
* **Location:** **Pershing Park**, located at the corner of **Pennsylvania Ave and 14th St NW**.
* **Note:** We are starting here because Freedom Plaza is currently closed for a massive rehabilitation project.
### **The Route**
* **Distance:** Approximately 14.4 miles.
* **Terrain:** Expect plenty of alleys and varying road surfaces—it’s an adventure!
* **Route Map:**
https://onthegomap.com/#/route/019dd035-e6ae-72f0-940e-4b9c67728587
### **What to Bring**
* Your skates (and perhaps your "trashiest" attitude).
* Good vibes and a relaxed mindset.
* Water and safety gear as needed.
Let's get a little numb to the pain and enjoy the ride!
For up to the minute details, check Facebook and Instagram.
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/WashingtonAreaRoadskaters/events
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/weareskatedc/
We hope to see you Sunday!
Doubles Volleyball - Competitive BB/A
Let's get together to play some competitive coed doubles volleyball.
**COST**: FREE
**Court Type**: Outdoor grass
**Minimum Skill Requirements**: Solid BB (click [here](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PojSi4qdlRsv1msCHhvpQ43iDc4FfzQwpWCc3kafVMY/mobilebasic) for details)
Attention:
1. This event is **not always on a first come, first served basis**. [Good doubles partner](https://docs.google.com/document/d/14weEw-P52XKx0P8K2l-ZOFtYU61wmfdkSkopbG5avro/) and those who can bring a net and ball, may get priority over others on the waitlist.
2. Since skill levels are **self-reported**, some attendees may not meet the expected level in reality, so we encourage you to choose a partner you can enjoy the game with, and since this is a **competitive** event, it is okay if you make a strong team and win all the games.
3. Each person must help set up and take down one net, leaving some nets unset for latecomers.
**Smiley Social documents:**
1. [Group Rules](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HrG35p_0M08leRvCp8XWG3CMkr_GL928XFabl5T6Dvg)
2. [Smiley Social Volleyball Levels](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PojSi4qdlRsv1msCHhvpQ43iDc4FfzQwpWCc3kafVMY/edit)
3. [Good doubles partner](https://docs.google.com/document/d/14weEw-P52XKx0P8K2l-ZOFtYU61wmfdkSkopbG5avro/)
4. [Liability Waiver](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1W2mq-7m99lmvd7gdWYaSUFtvVg4UGnzV6koafAbHmco)
Easy Hike: 2-3 miles Lake Artemesia
**Lake Artemesia Walk – College Park**
Join us for a relaxed, easy-paced walk around beautiful Lake Artemesia. A chance to unwind, enjoy nature, and connect with others in a calm, welcoming setting.
We’ll walk the scenic loop, take in the lake views, and enjoy light conversation along the way. All fitness levels are welcome.
**Main parking lot:**
**55th Ave & Berwyn Rd**
College Park, MD 20740
Bring plenty of water, whatever you need for your hike, and your awesome authentic self. Keep it easygoing.
RELEASE OF LIABILITY & ASSUMPTION OF RISK AGREEMENT:
By being a member of this Group, RSVPing to any Activity, or participating in any Activity, You accept and agree to the terms and conditions described below:
1. You acknowledge that hiking in nature carries the risk of potential harm to yourself, including the risk of injuries such as broken bones or muscle/tendon injuries, illness, disability, or death.
2. You agree that You will at all times be responsible for Yourself and Your own safety.
3. You release and hold harmless with respect to all injury, disability, death, or loss of property, whether caused by negligence or otherwise, this group's leadership and members for the hikes that you participate in.
4. You acknowledge and agree that this Group is merely a collection of friends or potential friends who enjoy doing activities, and that in no event does any Organizer or Other Member assume any responsibility or liability for You.
5\. You agree not to sue and to release\, discharge\, waive and hold harmless all organizers and other members from and against all liabilities\, claims\, demands\, losses\, damages\, suits and proceedings\, for negligence\, carelessness or any other cause which you may have or that hereafter may accrue arising\, resulting from or related to your membership in this group or participation in any activity\.
Ultimate Frisbee - All Levels
Just good ole Ultimate Frisbee. Tons of fun. Great group. No stacks. No pick calls (but no picks!!!). Fair warning to those totally new to ultimate: it's a lot of running.
\*\*Please pay close attention to the rule #6 listed below.
*What to DEFINITELY bring*
1. Running shoes/Cleats
2. One white shirt *and* one dark shirt !!!! See this one !!!!
\-\-\- IMPORTANT you can play both dark and white so we can make teams when we get there; just pickup after all 😎
3. Water
*What you can ALSO bring*
4\. Snacks & Drinks
5\. Gloves \(winter\)
6\. Sunscreen \(summer\)
7\. Sunglasses 😎
House Rules -
1. Starting Play: Each point begins with both teams lining up on the front of opposite end zone lines. The defense throws ("pulls") the disc to the offense.
2. Scoring: Each time the offense catches a pass in the defense's end zone, the offense scores a point. The teams switch direction after every goal, and the next point begins with a new pull by the team that just scored.
3. Movement of the Disc: The disc may be advanced in any direction by completing a pass to a teammate. Players may not run with the disc. The person with the disc ("thrower") has ten seconds to throw the disc. The defender guarding the thrower ("marker") counts out the stall count.
4. Change of Possession: When a pass is not completed (e.g. out of bounds, drop, block, interception, stalled), the defense immediately takes possession of the disc and becomes the offense.
5. Substitutions: Players not in the game may replace players in the game after a score and during an injury timeout. (Modified depending on the number of the attendees)
6. Non-contact: Players must attempt to avoid physical contact during play. Picks and screens are also prohibited.
7. Fouls: When a player initiates contact that affects the play, a foul occurs. When a foul causes a player to lose possession, the play resumes as if the possession was retained. If the player that the foul was called against disagrees with the foul call, the play is redone.
8. Self-Officiating: Players are responsible for their own foul and line calls. The host will also step in if it is needed.
Please message the event host for any questions or concerns.
\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-
**Smiley Social documents:**
1. [Group Rules ](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HrG35p_0M08leRvCp8XWG3CMkr_GL928XFabl5T6Dvg)
2. [Liability Waiver ](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1W2mq-7m99lmvd7gdWYaSUFtvVg4UGnzV6koafAbHmco)
Sand Volleyball at Windmill Hill Park Alexandria VA NEED MINIMUM- 4 PLAYERS!!!!
Cost: free
Court Type: Outdoor Sand
Level: Social (everyone is welcome)
Transportation: Parking will be right in front of the courts.
What to bring: a ball if you have one.
This is a social volleyball which means as long as you played volleyball before and can keep some rally going you can attend.
The point is to practice being a team player, have fun, be social, and make friends.
We should try to have 2 passes before sending the ball over on most plays. Let's get everyone involved in the game.
In Person: Partnering with Spirit to Solve Problems
“When you open yourself to divine truth, the mere fact that you can
identify a problem means that you have the solution within you. What
you are attempting to achieve through the Spiritual Exercises of ECK is
the expansion of consciousness whereby you can better see the
solution to your problem.”
─ Harold Klemp, The Golden Heart, p. 88
You are Divine Soul – and have the godlike power of creative imagination within
you. Using this power, you can find solutions for every problem and take charge
of your own life.
But how do you actually do it? How can you best tap the creativity of your true
self, and manifest a happier and more productive life for yourself now?
During a lively discussion, we’ll explore ways to more consciously connect with
the Divine power, more effectively address our fears, and transform the way we
identify and work with problems.
All attendees will receive a free copy of the book, “ECK Wisdom on Solving
Problems.”
We look forward to seeing you there!
A flyer for this event is available for you at:
https://eck-va.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Poster-for-May-10th-2026-Partnering-
with-Spirit-to-Solve-Problems-Rev-1.pdf
Self-Defense Events Near You
Connect with your local Self-Defense community
Ohio Fight club
We are a real world Martial arts group. \
Called DO JUNG ISHU (the art of fighting) \
Based off of Jeet kune do we just continued where Bruce Lee left off. \
We have been around a while. \
Every week we get together and work technical skills and full contact spar. \
Almost all of the instructors have been in everything from street fights to the ring and some still compete in cage fighting. \
If you want to take your skills up, improve your confidence, gain self defense skills, get in better shape, test yourself or just want to kill some time and possibly get hit a bit come on down. \
We will be located at 3923 N High St, Columbus, OH 43214 Outside in the grass between the playground and horseshoe area. our instructors are normally in a black and red art of fighting shirt \ if you can not find us call or text me at 6143570295
Saturday 1:30pm Wednesday 5:45pm
From Age 16 and up. attendees under the age of 18 must have a guardian with them. \
Wear workout clothes. \
Bring a MOUTHPIECE! \
WE HAVE GLOVES. \
$10 per class
$5 per class if you are wearing a club shirt
Club shirts are $25
Hope to see you soon. \
let me know if you have any questions :)
Fundamentals: by do Jung Ishu/ the art of fighting
We are a real world Martial arts group. \
Called DO JUNG ISHU (the art of fighting) \
Based off of Jeet kune do we just continued where Bruce Lee left off. \
We have been around a while. \
Every week we get together and work technical skills and full contact spar. \
Almost all of the instructors have been in everything from street fights to the ring and some still compete in cage fighting. \
If you want to take your skills up, improve your confidence, gain self defense skills, get in better shape, test yourself or just want to kill some time and possibly get hit a bit come on down. \
We will be located at 3923 N High St, Columbus, OH 43214 Outside in the grass between the playground and horseshoe area. our instructors are normally in a black and red art of fighting shirt \ if you can not find us call or text me at 6143570295
Saturday 1:30pm Wednesday 5:45pm
From Age 16 and up. attendees under the age of 18 must have a guardian with them. \
Wear workout clothes. \
Bring a MOUTHPIECE! \
WE HAVE GLOVES. \
$10 per class
$5 per class if you are wearing a club shirt
Club shirts are $25
Hope to see you soon. \
let me know if you have any questions :)
Free In-Person Event: Handle Self-Confidence & Motivation to Achieve Your Goals
This is an in-person meeting.
Would you like to know the Real You, not just a shadow of yourself? Does your life energy feel somehow trapped within? Does your self-confidence get easily shaken? Do you get in the way of your own goals? We will discuss the real source of all this, what holds you back in life, and how to handle it so you can achieve more successful and happier living.
Perhaps you get weighed down with negative emotions you can't seem to shrug off. Or find yourself doing strange and irrational things - not really being yourself. We will cover why that is and tools that work to help you unearth your self, your self-confidence and motivation.
This meeting will help you learn about how to effectively overcome:
-Out-of-control unwanted emotions
-Low self-esteem
-Anxiety
-Negativity
-Stress
-Irrational fears
-Traumatic or painfully emotional incidents
-Breakups
-Betrayals
-Feeling like you're not really yourself
-Self-doubt...
We will discuss how to unleash the inner you and tap into your true potential. So come to this online meetup!
This meeting is sponsored by the Hubbard Dianetics Foundation of Central Ohio
The “I” of the Storm: Embracing Conflict, Creating Peace Workshop
In the midst of life’s storms—whether in relationships, work, or within ourselves—it can be difficult to find clarity and calm. The “I” Of the Storm: Embracing Conflict, Creating Peace, based on the work of Dr. Gary Simmons, invites you to discover the steady center within—the part of you that remains grounded even when everything around you is in motion.
Led by Brian Drafton-Griffin, this engaging workshop offers practical tools and meaningful insights to help you navigate conflict with greater awareness, compassion, and confidence. Through guided discussion and reflection, you’ll learn how to shift from reaction to response and transform challenges into opportunities for growth and connection.
Fundamentals: by do Jung Ishu/ the art of fighting
We are a real world Martial arts group. \
Called DO JUNG ISHU (the art of fighting) \
Based off of Jeet kune do we just continued where Bruce Lee left off. \
We have been around a while. \
Every week we get together and work technical skills and full contact spar. \
Almost all of the instructors have been in everything from street fights to the ring and some still compete in cage fighting. \
If you want to take your skills up, improve your confidence, gain self defense skills, get in better shape, test yourself or just want to kill some time and possibly get hit a bit come on down. \
We will be located at 3923 N High St, Columbus, OH 43214 Outside in the grass between the playground and horseshoe area. our instructors are normally in a black and red art of fighting shirt \ if you can not find us call or text me at 6143570295
Saturday 1:30pm Wednesday 5:45pm
From Age 16 and up. attendees under the age of 18 must have a guardian with them. \
Wear workout clothes. \
Bring a MOUTHPIECE! \
WE HAVE GLOVES. \
$10 per class
$5 per class if you are wearing a club shirt
Club shirts are $25
Hope to see you soon. \
let me know if you have any questions :)





























