What MUST be taught in a Self-Defense Course?

[Gerry Seymour]

Heck there are "conceptual physics" courses in HS and Colleges that allow people to study and understand the effects of physics without the math. But, as an example imo is an army sniper. The sniper doesn't need to know the mathematical equation on how wind and the coriolis effect, range etc. will impact the trajectory of a bullet so as to accurately adjust one's aim.

But he still needs to understand the basic physics of it (with or without the math), or he has to learn it entirely by rote. I doubt he just learns by trial and error that the bullet will drop over distance (actually, time). Discussing that drop - and how much it will be - is a discussion of physics. If he is going to know before the shot how far it will drop, he'll have to do some math.

 

[Gerry Seymour]

We get some cool concept stuff. I think it depends on the guy.

I agree. I think it also depends upon the student, and what they are looking for from the seminar. I've learned some really valuable lessons in seminars - some things that have helped shape how I teach.

 

[Juany118]

But he still needs to understand the basic physics of it (with or without the math), or he has to learn it entirely by rote. I doubt he just learns by trial and error that the bullet will drop over distance (actually, time). Discussing that drop - and how much it will be - is a discussion of physics. If he is going to know before the shot how far it will drop, he'll have to do some math.

The first part is my point. You can understand the basic physics behind something without knowing the equations Einstein would. And there is math but it's fairly customized, and now they have watches you can store it in to help (Google D.O.P.E). Wish they had that when I was in, I had a diary.

 

[drop bear]

I never said I didn't study it. I said it wasn't my area of study (a different thing). Basic physics isn't terribly complicated (though some of the math can be). Understanding force equations, leverage equations, and acceleration/deceleration equations doesn't require an advanced degree in physics.

We are essentially talking about kenesiology though. Aren't we? people are not generally solid objects moving through vacumes.

 

[Gerry Seymour]

The first part is my point. You can understand the basic physics behind something without knowing the equations Einstein would. And there is math but it's fairly customized, and now they have watches you can store it in to help (Google D.O.P.E). Wish they had that when I was in, I had a diary.

Agreed. The math he'd need to know (assuming no watch - that's just cheating!) would be simple enough to be done on the fly with moderate precision. A fairly basic allowance for the drop over a 1,000 yard distance, with some acceleration of drop factored (actually the deceleration of the round, but it amounts to the same thing).

 

[Gerry Seymour]

We are essentially talking about kenesiology though. Aren't we? people are not generally solid objects moving through vacumes.

Kinesiology is one science involved. Basic physics is also in there. Leverage can be discussed in terms of basic physics (which would assume a static situation), then the kinesiology can be added in (so that we now have to evaluate the stability of the base, the ability of the load to move, etc.).

 

[Juany118]

Agreed. The math he'd need to know (assuming no watch - that's just cheating!) would be simple enough to be done on the fly with moderate precision. A fairly basic allowance for the drop over a 1,000 yard distance, with some acceleration of drop factored (actually the deceleration of the round, but it amounts to the same thing).

DOPE is a little more complicated but not by much. You basically keep a diary of sorts that details the performance of weapon + ammo + weather + your physical + range conditions. You then apply that info to future calculations.

 

[drop bear]

Kinesiology is one science involved. Basic physics is also in there. Leverage can be discussed in terms of basic physics (which would assume a static situation), then the kinesiology can be added in (so that we now have to evaluate the stability of the base, the ability of the load to move, etc.).

So simple right?

 

[Juany118]

Kinesiology is one science involved. Basic physics is also in there. Leverage can be discussed in terms of basic physics (which would assume a static situation), then the kinesiology can be added in (so that we now have to evaluate the stability of the base, the ability of the load to move, etc.).

I think most people forget what the following article explains rather well. In short without physics there is no kinesiology.

Physics - kinesiology, biology and physics

 

[Buka]

One of the reasons Bill Wallace kicks so well is he has a Masters in Kinesiology. (bachelors in phys ed, too)

 

[Justin Chang]

**UPDATE**

I spoke with the people who had asked me to offer the 2 hour class on Self-Defense and informed them of the limitations of only offering 2 hours for the subject matter and reccomended offering a longer course (perhaps 6 weeks, 1.5 hours per week)

They informed me that they traditionally only offer small, one time classes to the public instead of a course that participants have to attend multiple classes. They offer classes in every topic imaginable (auto repair, candle making, tarot reading, belly dancing, you name it) most of these classes are just brief introductions to the subjects and range from $10-$30 per class.

After some more discussion they did agree that if I could make each class able to be taken by itself that I could make 6 seperate classes and just let people know for best results they should try to attend each class.

So I think I will attempt to re-write my lesson plans to make 6 individual Self-Defense classes that hopefully will be taken as an entire course by most people but could be taken seperately if they wish.

Wish me luck lol.

 

[wingchun100]

**UPDATE**

I spoke with the people who had asked me to offer the 2 hour class on Self-Defense and informed them of the limitations of only offering 2 hours for the subject matter and reccomended offering a longer course (perhaps 6 weeks, 1.5 hours per week)

They informed me that they traditionally only offer small, one time classes to the public instead of a course that participants have to attend multiple classes. They offer classes in every topic imaginable (auto repair, candle making, tarot reading, belly dancing, you name it) most of these classes are just brief introductions to the subjects and range from $10-$30 per class.

After some more discussion they did agree that if I could make each class able to be taken by itself that I could make 6 seperate classes and just let people know for best results they should try to attend each class.

So I think I will attempt to re-write my lesson plans to make 6 individual Self-Defense classes that hopefully will be taken as an entire course by most people but could be taken seperately if they wish.

Wish me luck lol.

I might have missed this, but what exactly is the place where this class is being hosted?

 

[Justin Chang]

I might have missed this, but what exactly is the place where this class is being hosted?

The place is called the Brainery, they offer classes to the public in just about any topic you can imagine. Most of their classes are inexpensive and attract community members who are looking to learn more about various topics.

 

[wingchun100]

That's cool. I am trying to find places around here where I could host a class like colleges, plus some libraries have really large meeting rooms. It's not easy. Most colleges turn me down because I am not faculty or a student, but the biggest college here is open to it. I'll keep on plugging away.

 

[Buka]

**UPDATE**

I spoke with the people who had asked me to offer the 2 hour class on Self-Defense and informed them of the limitations of only offering 2 hours for the subject matter and reccomended offering a longer course (perhaps 6 weeks, 1.5 hours per week)

They informed me that they traditionally only offer small, one time classes to the public instead of a course that participants have to attend multiple classes. They offer classes in every topic imaginable (auto repair, candle making, tarot reading, belly dancing, you name it) most of these classes are just brief introductions to the subjects and range from $10-$30 per class.

After some more discussion they did agree that if I could make each class able to be taken by itself that I could make 6 seperate classes and just let people know for best results they should try to attend each class.

So I think I will attempt to re-write my lesson plans to make 6 individual Self-Defense classes that hopefully will be taken as an entire course by most people but could be taken seperately if they wish.

Wish me luck lol.

That sounds great, bro, hope it all works out. Good luck!

 

[wingchun100]

**UPDATE**

I spoke with the people who had asked me to offer the 2 hour class on Self-Defense and informed them of the limitations of only offering 2 hours for the subject matter and reccomended offering a longer course (perhaps 6 weeks, 1.5 hours per week)

They informed me that they traditionally only offer small, one time classes to the public instead of a course that participants have to attend multiple classes. They offer classes in every topic imaginable (auto repair, candle making, tarot reading, belly dancing, you name it) most of these classes are just brief introductions to the subjects and range from $10-$30 per class.

After some more discussion they did agree that if I could make each class able to be taken by itself that I could make 6 seperate classes and just let people know for best results they should try to attend each class.

So I think I will attempt to re-write my lesson plans to make 6 individual Self-Defense classes that hopefully will be taken as an entire course by most people but could be taken seperately if they wish.

Wish me luck lol.

I might be running a program like this, but to introduce wing chun to newbies. Any chance you could share your outline with me? Maybe I could model something after it.

 

[Justin Chang]

I might be running a program like this, but to introduce wing chun to newbies. Any chance you could share your outline with me? Maybe I could model something after it.

It's real rough right now but so far this is what I have:

Self-Defense Class Bios


1. Basic Self-Defense: Intro to Self-Defense- This is the first in a series of 6 different Basic Self-Defense Classes that can be taken either individually or for best results as a complete course on the subject. This particular class will give you an understanding of what Self-Defense is, how to avoid dangerous situations, and a general overview of what to expect from the other 5 classes. This class is a beginner’s course and it is open to all ages and sexes. (2hrs)

2. Basic Self-Defense: Avoidance- This is the second in a series of 6 different Basic Self-Defense Classes that can be taken either individually or for best results as a complete course on the subject. This particular class will teach you how to become aware of dangerous situations and avoid conflicts before they start. The course will include de-escalation techniques, verbal judo, and the legalities of Self-Defense. This class is a beginner’s course and it is open to all ages and sexes. (2hrs)

3. Basic Self-Defense: Striking- This is the third in a series of 6 different Basic Self-Defense Classes that can be taken either individually or for best results as a complete course on the subject. This particular class will teach various striking tools (fists, elbow, kicks, knees, palm heel) and how to spot vulnerable striking targets/pressure points. This class is a beginner’s course and it is open to all ages and sexes. (2 hrs)

4. Basic Self-Defense: Stances, Movement, Blocks- This is the forth in a series of 6 different Basic Self-Defense Classes that can be taken either individually or for best results as a complete course on the subject. This particular class will teach you how to stand properly, how to effectively move, and how to best block attacks. This class is a beginner’s course and it is open to all ages and sexes. (2hrs)

5. Basic Self-Defense: Weapons- This is the fifth in a series of 6 different Basic Self-Defense Classes that can be taken either individually or for best results as a complete course on the subject. This particular class will dispel the myths about fighting against a weapon and teach techniques for disarming and defending against guns, knives, and sticks and will teach you how to spot and use improvised weapons. This class is a beginner’s course and it is open to all ages and sexes. (2hrs)

6. Basic Self-Defense: Techniques/Ground Work- This is the sixth and final class in a series of 6 different Basic Self-Defense Classes that can be taken either individually or for best results as a complete course on the subject. This particular class will teach escapes from common attacks such as grabs, chokes, bear hugs as well as what to do should you be taken to the ground or pinned down, and we will also teach escapes from zip ties and duct tape. This class is a beginner’s course and it is open to all ages and sexes. (2hrs)

I am currently re-working it but this is my very rough draft so far.

 

[aedrasteia]

It's real rough right now but so far this is what I have:

I am currently re-working it but this is my very rough draft so far.

this is a useful and informative thread - Thanks, Justin, for putting your outline out where others will see it.
I have more to put here - but I wanted those on this thread, especially those who are putting their perspective
out here, to know of my appreciation and respect.
A

 

[oftheherd1]

It's real rough right now but so far this is what I have:

Self-Defense Class Bios


1. Basic Self-Defense: Intro to Self-Defense- This is the first in a series of 6 different Basic Self-Defense Classes that can be taken either individually or for best results as a complete course on the subject. This particular class will give you an understanding of what Self-Defense is, how to avoid dangerous situations, and a general overview of what to expect from the other 5 classes. This class is a beginner’s course and it is open to all ages and sexes. (2hrs)

2. Basic Self-Defense: Avoidance- This is the second in a series of 6 different Basic Self-Defense Classes that can be taken either individually or for best results as a complete course on the subject. This particular class will teach you how to become aware of dangerous situations and avoid conflicts before they start. The course will include de-escalation techniques, verbal judo, and the legalities of Self-Defense. This class is a beginner’s course and it is open to all ages and sexes. (2hrs)

3. Basic Self-Defense: Striking- This is the third in a series of 6 different Basic Self-Defense Classes that can be taken either individually or for best results as a complete course on the subject. This particular class will teach various striking tools (fists, elbow, kicks, knees, palm heel) and how to spot vulnerable striking targets/pressure points. This class is a beginner’s course and it is open to all ages and sexes. (2 hrs)

4. Basic Self-Defense: Stances, Movement, Blocks- This is the forth in a series of 6 different Basic Self-Defense Classes that can be taken either individually or for best results as a complete course on the subject. This particular class will teach you how to stand properly, how to effectively move, and how to best block attacks. This class is a beginner’s course and it is open to all ages and sexes. (2hrs)

5. Basic Self-Defense: Weapons- This is the fifth in a series of 6 different Basic Self-Defense Classes that can be taken either individually or for best results as a complete course on the subject. This particular class will dispel the myths about fighting against a weapon and teach techniques for disarming and defending against guns, knives, and sticks and will teach you how to spot and use improvised weapons. This class is a beginner’s course and it is open to all ages and sexes. (2hrs)

6. Basic Self-Defense: Techniques/Ground Work- This is the sixth and final class in a series of 6 different Basic Self-Defense Classes that can be taken either individually or for best results as a complete course on the subject. This particular class will teach escapes from common attacks such as grabs, chokes, bear hugs as well as what to do should you be taken to the ground or pinned down, and we will also teach escapes from zip ties and duct tape. This class is a beginner’s course and it is open to all ages and sexes. (2hrs)

I am currently re-working it but this is my very rough draft so far.

Looks interesting. I don't want to sound like I am telling you what to do, since apparently you have done this before, but have you considered that it might be good to switch 3 and 4? That is, teach standing, moving and blocking before striking with fists and/or weapons?

5 and 6 will keep you quite busy considering how many things you will teach in 2 hours.

I wish you luck, and hope you do indeed find a way to make this good for your students. It will be a good service if you accomplish that.

 

[Gerry Seymour]

So simple right?

Yes, leverage is simple.