Most of learning how to stay safe comes from the ability to be aware, confident + knowledgeable in any given situation. That's where a self-defense class comes into play.

These classes are about more than just knowing how to stop someone from stealing your wallet or how to punch or kick.

Taking a self-defense course can also help:

Sharpen your reflexes (and handle high-pressure situations)
Build quick decision-making skills
Develop assertiveness
Build your confidence
Increase your patience + decrease stress
Provide a solid workout (if you're looking for that, too)

Plenty of self-defense classes are offered in Tampa Bay —and don't feel intimidated about trying one for the first time. Everyone's gotta start somewhere.

Jiu-Jitsu Self-Defense Class (Adults + Kids) | Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, 720 W. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Suite 3, Tampa | Free | After signing up, you get a free Brazilian Jui-Jitsu learners guide.

Women's Self-Defense | Hellman's Mixed Martial Arts,12202 Race Track Rd., Tampa | Free | This beginner class for all fitness levels focuses on practical personal protection in real-world situations.

LGBTQ+ Self-Defense Course | Allendale United Methodist Church, 3803 Haines Rd. N., St. Petersburg | Saturday, March 18, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. | Free | Learn various tactics and cues like distance management, defense, and abduction prevention.

RAD for Women | USFSP Police Department, 140 7th Ave. S. Police Station, Room #104, St. Petersburg | Multiple dates | Free | This risk reduction training course is taught by RAD-certified USF police instructors. The department also offers a class for men. (No need to be a student)

Self-Defense Intro Class for Everyone | Quest Self-Defense, 2634 Cypress Ridge Blvd., Suite 103, Wesley Chapel | Multiple dates | Free | Break a sweat in this 45-minute hands-on, scenario-based class in a replica Japanese training hall.

Children's Martial Arts Classes | Mission Tampa, 5802 N. Himes Ave. | Free | This class teaches kids how to avoid danger. Children receive a free martial arts uniform as well. 🥋