3 Badass Classes to Learn How to Defend Yourself Like a Warrior

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Walking the streets of Paris like a girl boss is all about self-confidence. You'll notice that women with a confident stride are much less likely to be harassed. The only downside? Trouble is everywhere, my friend… So how do you avoid it? By mastering self-defense techniques. This proactive approach will give you a confidence boost, knowing you can react and stay calm in stressful situations. To make sure you're ready for anything, the Do It Team has found the best places to learn how to protect yourself and become your own Wonder Woman. Empowerment in public spaces starts now!

The concept? In 2010, Laurent Hennequin, a gendarme, had enough of the rising assaults on women. He took action by creating Lady System Defense, teaching women to never look down again. The result? Since 2011, the organization has trained over 12,700 warriors through 600 workshops, with top-notch, QUALIOPI-certified training. Laurent Hennequin's motto? "Give them the tools to defend themselves against those who seek to harm them."

The process? Led by highly qualified and dedicated instructors, you'll learn the basics of self-defense in small groups with one instructor per six women, ensuring each participant gets the attention she deserves. The workshops are open to all, regardless of age or fitness level, in a fun and laid-back atmosphere. Two workshops are available: one on the fundamentals of self-defense, and the other on specific themes like sexual assault or stress management. Each session starts gently with some theory, followed by cardio boxing (to laugh and blow off steam), and then the technical self-defense practice through real-life scenarios. Here, both body and mind are trained, so you leave feeling empowered and ready for anything!

Where and when? In Paris, every two weeks: three hours of non-stop girl power at Club Daumesnil in the 12th arrondissement. Morning session: 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Afternoon session: 2 p.m. - 5 p.m. Dress comfortably with workout clothes, a towel, water bottle, and socks (no holes!) for the mats.

Ladies System Defense, Club Daumesnil, 8 rue de Prague, Paris 12th. 06 67 88 80 43. Three hours for €30, with subscription options available.

© Ladies System Defense (@ladiessystemdefense).

The concept? Spoiler alert: you don’t need to be 6 feet tall or have massive biceps to defend yourself. Daï-Sifu Claude, founder of UFPWTS and a state-certified martial arts expert (no joke!), shows you how to turn flexibility and technique into powerful weapons. Having grown up surrounded by women, Claude developed a unique approach that blends strength with fluidity. With over 25 years of experience, he has created a fun and progressive method specifically designed for women. For the past three years, his group classes have empowered women to master self-defense.

The process? In a cozy, 100% girl squad atmosphere, you’ll start with a gentle warm-up to wake up those muscles after a day at the office. Then, it’s on to the basics: behavioral strategies and self-defense moves. First solo to master the fundamentals (left hand, right foot, easy!), then in pairs to test your new skills. You’ll also enjoy ultra-fun sports games to sharpen your instinctive reflexes. The cherry on top? You’ll learn how to use everyday objects—keys, knives, sticks—for protection. You’ll finish with cardio specific to self-defense, preparing you to react in case of trouble.

Where and when? Head to Paris 14th on Mondays and Wednesdays from 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at the town hall annex and École Dansomania for your group sessions. The highlight? Free monthly workshops in the stunning Salle des Mariages at the town hall—because let’s face it, a beautiful setting makes all the difference! Don’t forget your workout gear, indoor shoes, and a small water bottle. Changing rooms are available for freshening up after class.

Feminine Self-Defense, Annexe de la mairie du 14th, Salle Châteaubriant, 26 rue Mouton Duvernet, Paris 14th. Group class: €375/year (students: €336).

© Self Defense Féminine (@selfdefensefeminineparis).

The concept? Maccabi, the martial arts and self-defense HQ since 2005, opens its doors for you to become a true everyday warrior. With 12 disciplines on offer, it's the perfect spot to push your limits. Our top pick? Krav Maga, the secret weapon of Israeli special forces. Their approach? Ultra-effective techniques, extremely realistic and adaptable to any risky situation. For you ladies, the classes are tailored to address your concerns. Expect specialized sessions focused on public space defense and harassment, giving you practical tools to use in everyday life. In a supportive yet disciplined environment, you’ll learn to defend yourself—even if you're 5 feet tall facing a 6-foot giant.

The process? An intense hour with 25-40 participants, led by black belt professionals. Start with a warm-up, then dive into practical exercises and real-life scenarios. First round: Krav Maga-style self-defense. You’ll learn how to turn punches, grabs, and even armed attacks into distant memories. Sticks, knives… you'll handle it all, James Bond Girl-style, minus the gadgets. Then, crank it up with hand-to-hand combat: attack combos, combat psychology, and tactics to neutralize your opponent quickly, even in the worst conditions. You'll end with a well-deserved cool-down.

Where and when? Maccabi Paris is located in the lively République neighborhood. All schedules and levels are available online so you can sign up and start becoming the queen of self-defense. Don’t forget to pack: boxing gloves, bandages, mouthguard (to keep your smile shining), shin/foot guards, and a protective cup. Changing rooms are available for a peaceful post-training refresh.

Maccabi Paris, 70 rue René Boulanger, Paris 10th. 01 53 19 18 82. Annual adult membership: €690, teens: €590, children: €480. Trial class: €20. More info online.

© Maccabi Paris (@maccabiparis).

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