Galway to host series of free self-defence classes for women – ‘No Hollywood stuff’
A series of free self-protection and defence classes for women are being offered this autumn in Galway city.
Starting in September, Black Dragon Kickboxing certified personal trainer and instructor, Pete Foley, will lead a full course teaching practical technique for self-defence.
He told the Irish Independent: “I think it’s going to be a nice session for the ladies, and they will enjoy it. I am going to bring them through a series of manoeuvres and some techniques for fast defence. No Hollywood stuff. Straight to the point. Damage.”
“If [these] ladies enter a situation, they will have real, basic knowledge on how to look after themselves.”
Pete celebrates 50 years of experience in martial arts this month with practise in kickboxing, judo, kung fu, karate, and tai chi. He also teaches young kids in secondary schools.
Additionally, Mr Foley has observed the “precarious situations” people can find themselves in after working in door security for nearly two decades. He said the lack of knowledge in how to handle certain situations can put people in harmful, challenging circumstances.
“Everybody these days - well people say ‘these days’ but it’s always been a thing I am afraid -should have a bit of knowledge on how to look after themselves for self-protection. Even more important is a knowledge of street awareness and how to read a situation, how to possibly not get in that situation in the first place.” Mr Foley added.
Funding is provided for these sessions under Healthy Galway City and supported by Galway Sports Partnership. Healthy Galway City is supported by Galway City Council’s local community development committee which focuses on engagement for a healthier city.
The ‘come and see’ sessions will occur Monday, September 8 from 11am to 12pm and Friday, September 12 from 7.30pm to 8.30pm. These sessions will be a preview of the course in full highlighting confidence and situational awareness, as well as protective skills.
Classes will then be held once a week on Thursdays or Fridays from 7.30pm to 8.30pm at The Bunaglow in Mervue.
For more information and to register for the free course, email CandC@GalwayCity.ie.