Taking a self-defense class on top of carrying pepper spray seemed like an unnecessary precaution to me until one sunny afternoon last week, when I was walking my dog down a secluded street that’s also under construction in South End.
I was aware of the man that had also taken the same right turn onto the deserted street and when we made eye contact as he crossed diagonally to fall in step behind me, close enough that I could hear his footsteps and keys jingling, the hair on the back of my neck stood up. Although I was close enough to West Boulevard to see cars, I had to try to figure out what my next move was going to be that wouldn’t involve breaking into a run.
I reached West Boulevard unscathed but shaken. Without a cell phone and the pair of keys with the pepper spray attached to them, I realized that had something happened, even if it was a sunny afternoon, I would have had to rely on my fight or flight instincts. And I’m an unapologetic flyer.
So, if I look overcautious as I sign up for a self-defense class, so be it. If you’re in the same market, here are options that will keep your budget happy.
Eagle TaeKwonDo Academy – FREE
When: Classes vary and free lessons are available. See the full schedule here.
Where: 8326 Pineville-Matthews Road
FTF Fitness and Self-Defense – $19.99 for three classes
When: Monday (12:45 p.m., 7:15 p.m.), Tuesday (6:45 p.m.), Wednesday (12:45 p.m., 6:30 p.m.), Saturday (10 a.m.)
Where: 1122 East Hudson Boulevard, Gastonia
Karate Charlotte – $69 for a 4-week course
When: Contact Karate Charlotte to schedule your classes
Where: 8133 Ardrey Kell Road
Krav Maga LKN – FREE
When: Free introductory classes are held the first Sunday of every month at 12 p.m.
Where: 105 Parr Drive, Huntersville
Lady Safe – FREE
When: Every 1st or 2nd Saturday of the month
Where: Ultimate Gym, 3917 Trailer Drive
Queen City Self Defense – $75-$85
When: Classes are added as needed. Get in touch to schedule yours.
Where: Venues vary
R.A.D. – FREE
When: Schedules vary, and classes open to the public after spots are filled by JCSU students, faculty and staff.
Where: Johnson C. Smith University
Robert L. Kitchin Academy of Self Defense – $10
When: Class times vary. See the full schedule here.
Where: 914-3 East Franklin Boulevard
S.A.F.E. – $69
When: Class times vary. See the full schedule here.
Where: Point Blank Range – 743 River Highway, Mooresville & 10726 Monroe Road, Matthews
UFC Gym – $50 (first class free)
When: Class times vary. Get in touch to schedule yours.
Where: 1916 Sardis Road North
Women’s Self Defense – $50-$100
When: Contact the Lotus Martial Arts Academy to schedule a private session.
Where: 6233 Old Sugar Creek Road
Feature photo via Sarah Newton
