Blogs
SDFEssex self defence testimonials from students, adults, parents, schools, women’s groups and staff team building sessions.
SDF Essex self defence has run classes in Billericay, Basildon, Braintree, Brentwood, Great Baddow Chelmsford, Colchester, Rayleigh, Southend and across London..
Empower your Women’s group
Empower your Women’s group with a self defence & personal safety workshop with SDF Essex.
Looking for a powerful and engaging activity for your women’s group?
Our 2-hour self defence and personal safety taster workshop is the perfect choice for fitness groups, PTA organisations, staff socials, or any women’s gathering seeking to boost confidence and learn valuable life skills.
Designed to equip participants with practical self defence techniques, this workshop empowers women to protect themselves in everyday situations.
Led by Richard Mitchener SDF Essex self defence instructor, the workshop covers effective techniques, and personal safety strategies.
Sessions create an inclusive environment where everyone can learn, practice, and support each other. The session not only focuses on physical techniques but also builds awareness, confidence and mental resilience.
Participants will walk away with valuable tools for staying safe and a heightened sense of empowerment.
Women’s group attended the self defence workshop testimonial’s
Here’s a few comments from participants about their recent training experience with SDF Essex.
“Our group recently booked a self defence taster workshop, it was an amazing experience from start to finish”.
… “Our instructor Richard, his approach is very supportive and engaging, breaking down each move so everyone felt comfortable and relaxed whilst training”.
… “The techniques were practical and easy to remember, making us feel much more confident about handling real-life situations. Beyond just learning self defence, the workshop brought us closer together as a group”.
… “It was empowering to see everyone grow more confident, have FUN and whilst gaining these vital skills”.
.. “Highly recommended for any women’s group or small group of individuals looking to strengthen their bond and enhance personal safety”.
…“Empowering, practical and FUN, left us feeling confident”
… “Highly recommend the women’s self defence workshop! It was empowering and informative, with practical techniques that boosted our confidence”.
… “The friendly instructor made everyone feel relaxed comfortable, and we left feeling stronger and safer”.
Mum and three teenage girls
“As a family of four, mum and three teenage girls, we highly recommend SDF Essex Women’s Half Day Beginners Self Defence. Five Star
The session was empowering, enjoyable and incredibly confidence building.
We’ve all developed greater self-esteem, awareness and personal confidence.
Richard (instructor) is supportive, approachable and knowledgeable.
A fantastic experience for women and girls.
Call Richard to discuss training options”.
SDF Essex Self Defence Chelmsford Student
Contact Instructor
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to bring your group together for a transformative experience. Book your 2-hour self defence and personal safety workshop today to empower your women’s group with skills that last a lifetime.
Contact now to book your women’s group self defence workshop -07798 628207
Bullying confidence personal safety
Bullying can have a lasting impact on confidence, personal safety and mental health for youths and adults.
This year anti-bullying week this year is 11th November to 15th November 2024. The theme is Choose Respect.
Physical, verbal, or cyberbullying
The effects can lead to anxiety, depression and a low self-esteem.
This is where SDF Essex self defence training can be a vital help. The training combines anti-bullying strategies with self defence training to empower individuals to feel safer and more confident.
SDF Essex focuses on teaching practical self defence skills, offering a proactive approach to dealing with bullying.
Learning self defence is not just about physical techniques. It’s about understanding how to set boundaries, assert oneself, and manage potentially dangerous situations.
This empowerment boosts self-esteem and provides individuals with a greater sense of control over their own safety.
Benefits of self defence training
Self defence training is beneficial, helping to build respect, resilience and confidence in a supportive environment.
The training helps discipline, respect, and perseverance, plus a healthy outlet for stress and emotions.
These life skills help develop a strong positive mindset. Helping make them less likely to be targeted by bullies and more capable of standing up for themselves or others.
For adults, the benefits extend beyond personal safety. Self defence training can help with stress relief, improving mental well-being and providing valuable life skills.
SDF Essex self defence training addresses the physical aspect, but it also integrates discussions on mental health and emotional well-being above all empowering students in all areas of their life.
By fostering a supportive and empowering community, SDF Essex helps individuals of all ages. Building confidence and skills needed to navigate life safely and assertively.
Bullying confidence personal safety anti-bullying week – Choose Respect
Together, we can take a stand against bullying and promote a culture of strength and respect.
Being bullied isn’t a sign of weakness, being a bully isn’t a sign of strength. Anti bullying week this year is 11th November to 15th November 2024 – Choose Respect.
Investing time in SDF Essex beginners self defence workshop can provide peace of mind for you and your family.
This helps provide students the tools to respond effectively to potential dangers, ensuring safety in everyday life.
To find out more about training options, upcoming sessions or to book your place in a one-off beginners self defence workshop, contact today!
Contact Richard Now and Start Your Personal Safety Journey! Contact SDFEssex Self Defence
Prioritise Your Safety
When confronted with a situation that cannot be de-escalated, your primary focus should always be to prioritise your safety and to escape from the area.
If efforts to calm the situation fail, here are essential steps to protect yourself and minimise harm:
Ensure you create distance immediately
The first step in safeguarding yourself is to put physical space between you and the aggressor. Back away slowly and calmly to avoid provoking the person.
Distance can give you time to react if the confrontation escalates further and provides a buffer zone for your safety. Avoid turning your back, maintaining awareness is crucial.
Move to a safer location
As you create distance, aim to move toward a safer area. Look for nearby exits, populated spots, or places with security personnel.
If you’re indoors, position yourself to head for an exit. Avoid confined spaces, as they limit escape routes and could trap you in a dangerous situation.
Signal for help
If possible, make your situation known to others, be specific identify a person by mentioning their clothing colour. Shout for help using clear, specific language, such as “Man in the red top, I need help now!”
This draws attention and can deter the aggressor from further actions. If you’re in a facility with staff or security, move toward them and notify them of the situation.
Plan your exit strategy
It’s essential to have a plan for how you will leave the situation if it continues to escalate. Stay aware of all nearby exits and keep an unobstructed path between you and your chosen exit. If the aggressor blocks your way, try to position yourself where you can move quickly and safely in another direction.
Physical engagement should only be a last resort
Your main objective is to escape, not to fight. If you need to defend yourself, use objects around you to create barriers or distract the aggressor, allowing you to flee. Remember that the goal is not to overpower but to create an opportunity to get away.
Try to stay calm and focused
Keeping your emotions under control is important in a high stress situation.
Take deep breaths, talk clearly and with confidence, do not argue remain composed, and focus on your next move. Panic can impair your judgment, making it harder to make quick effective decisions.
Your safety is the priority so prioritise your safety.
I always say in my self defence sessions. If you can run away (run) or talk your way out of a situation that is first focus. Self defence techniques – I don’t have to hurt the bad person, I just have to stop them from hurting me.
If you would like to find out more about my Beginners Self Defence training options for individuals or groups please contact me on:
Keep safe
Richard Mitchener
SDF Essex Self Defence Instructor Chelmsford
07798 628207
HALLOWEEN TRICK OR TREAT
Self defence safety tips – Halloween trick or treat personal safety tips for your groups
Halloween night is full of excitement, with children and families out and about trick or treating.
Every year this mysterious slightly scary event seems to become even more popular in shops and with the amount of sweets that are left out for the many groups collecting around our streets in Essex and futher afield.
Exciting event yes, however, safety should always be a priority. Here are some important personal safety tips for groups to consider when planning to celebrate halloween.
Travel in groups and stay together, trick or treating in a group is not only more fun but also much safer.
Make sure costumes are flame-resistant and fit well to avoid trips.
It’s best to plan a route in advance, sticking to familiar, well-lit areas. Avoid shortcuts through parks, alleys, or unlit paths. Staying on main roads can help ensure better visibility and safety.
Take a torch, make sure everyone in the group is carrying a torch or neon lights. These not only light the way but also make the group visible to motorists. Reflective tape on costumes or bags is another great way to ensure visibility.
Masks can obstruct a child’s view, which might lead to accidents.
Please consider these self defence safety tips Have a great and safe HALLOWEEN TRICK OR TREAT
Self Defence Safety Tips
Find out more about SDF Essex self defence training options
If you are in and around the Chelmsford / mid Essex and surrounding areas, SDF Essex offers individual and private group lessons.
Self defence training is a valuable investment in yours and your families personal safety.
It’s an empowering journey that enhances your physical fitness, mental wellness, and overall confidence.
To find out more about training options, upcoming sessions or to book your place in a one-off self defence workshop, contact today!
Contact Richard Now and Start Your Personal Safety Journey!
Call 07798 628207 or email info@selfdefenceandfitness.com
Confidence Fitness Self Defence
The Power of Self Defence Martial Arts: Boosting Confidence, Fitness, and Team Spirit
Self defence is more than just learning how to throw a punch or block an attack; it’s a life skill that builds confidence, strength, and resilience.
At SDF Essex, we believe self defence training is crucial for everyone youths, adults, and especially women helping them face challenges, both physical and mental.
For youths, self defence offers a sense of empowerment that directly counters the negative effects of bullying.
Self defence training
The training helps young people develop assertiveness, awareness, and resilience, making them less likely targets.
It’s also an ideal activity for those working towards their Duke of Edinburgh Award (DofE), as it promotes both physical and skill development, ticking multiple boxes for personal growth and achievement.
Fitness, is a key component of developing confidence in self defence training. Our sessions at SDF Essex are designed to improve overall fitness levels. This helps participants to increase their confidence strength, agility, and endurance.
Unlike traditional gym routines, self defence combines cardio, strength, and flexibility training, offering a dynamic and engaging workout that keeps participants coming back for more.
Self defence isn’t just an individual pursuit—it’s about building connections. Our sessions are great for team-building activities, helping participants bond over shared challenges and successes.
Benefits of attending a self defence class
For adults, self defence can foster a strong sense of community while building critical skills for personal safety.
Women, in particular, benefit greatly from self defence training. The knowledge that they can protect themselves empowers women, boosting their confidence in navigating daily life.
Whether it’s walking home at night or dealing with an intimidating situation, self defence training ensures women feel prepared and assertive.
At SDF Essex, we cultivate a supportive environment where people of all backgrounds can come together to learn, grow, and encourage each other.
Whether you’re interested in developing self defence life skills, boosting your fitness, or simply joining a positive community, we’re here to help you step into a stronger, more confident version of yourself.
Find out more – SDF Essex self defence beginners session
Ready to boost your confidence, fitness, and personal safety and attend a self defence class? Join us at SDF Essex and take the first step towards empowerment! Whether you’re looking to learn self defence, improve your fitness, or build valuable life skills, we’re here to help.
Get in touch with Richard Mitchener today to learn more and book your spot. Call or email now:
Don’t wait—start your self defence journey with SDF Essex and become part of our thriving community!
Keep safe Richard
Anti Bullying self defence
Anti bullying self defence with SDFEssex. Being bullied isn’t a sign of weakness, being a bully isn’t a sign of strength. Anti bullying week 11th November to 15th November 2024. The theme is Choose Respect.
Bullying is wrong on ALL levels, years ago when I was growing up it used to be mainly physical and / or verbal.
Social media and texting have brought other elements.
What is Bullying?
Bullying is an imbalance of power to repeatedly and intentionally cause emotional or physical harm to another person or group of people.
No one should underestimate the impact that bullying can have on a person’s life.
Why do people become victims of Bullies?
Colour of hair, Weight, Race, Gender, Religion, Height, Appearance, Circumstances.
Effects of Bullying
Can lead to sadness, lack of self esteem, reduced confidence, mental illness and loss of friendships.
Anti Bullying Tips and solutions
- Encourage and build confidence, It’s essential to talk and ensure the victim understands they are not alone.
- Often bullies are looking for reactions and ignoring them can be the best way to handle them.
- Self defence classes can help build up confidence, become more assertive, improve self esteem and make new friends.
Learning to defend yourself
Bullying can deeply affect everybody in the family.
- Importance of responding to bullying.
- No one deserves to be bullied.
Anti bullying personal safety
Students attend SDF Essex self defence anti bullying personal safety training for a wide range of reasons, to help improve fitness, build confidence, tone up, and learn anti bullying skills. Learning self defence is a vital life skill. Venues across Essex include Brentwood, Great Baddow, Chelmsford and Mountnessing.
I work with students at our weekend self defence club, schools and youth groups, covering theory, personal safety and anti bullying tips.
https://www.selfdefenceandfitness.com/beginners-self-defence/ The practical self defence training covers both standing, floor based activities and take downs.
Self defence testimonials
My daughter age 13 has been struggling with bullying for the last five years, unfortunately not just verbal but physical too. As a parent I felt that I needed to do as much as possible to protect her which of course included the police and regular counselling sessions.
As my daughter is becoming more independent I felt it was time that she had some self defence training. I called Richard who was straight away very concerned for my daughter and wanted to help in anyway he could. Even to the point of giving her one to one training if she felt uncomfortable in a group.
My daughter now goes every week as she thoroughly enjoys every minute of the training.
She as well as myself and husband have learnt so much through her tuition from Rich. I can whole heartedly recommend Richard to anyone.
Richard is very professional, fun, enthusiastic, with massive amounts of knowledge and qualifications. My daughter has gained in self belief and confidence now going out with her friends again.
Thank you very much to Richard and his wonderful family for making her feel so welcome and for all your support.
Essex parent
…. I enrolled my two boys ages 10 and 13 to join SDF Essex for several reasons.
Firstly school bullying is rife in many schools and when such a situation would arise with my sons it was always a challenge for me to advise on the best approach to deal with these occurrences. Richard gave very clear advice on how to deal with and defuse
Essex parent
Thank you for reading; any questions please call.
Richard 07798 628207 richard@selfdefenceandfitness.com
Keep Safe Anti Bullying Self Defence
Mental Health Awareness Week
Mental Health Awareness Week starts today. The theme is Movement, moving more for our mental health.
Regular movement helps protect our mental health. Physical activity can help boost our mood and energy.
Whether it’s a walk, jogging a team activity or learning self defence.
Movement helps us to improve our confidence, self esteem, well-being and makes us feel good.
As someone who knows a little about mental health, I can recommend the importance of being active to our mental health.
Mental health can be an effect from bullying, as well as sadness, lack of self esteem, reduced confidence and loss of friendships.
Testimonial
Essex Parent review on SDF Essex self defence sessions.
“My 14 year old daugher suffers with generalised anxiety disorder as well as other mental health issues,.
Therefore spending a lot of time in her room, so I was looking for some kind of activity for us to do together.
Having searched for a while, I found Richard from SDF Essex, who seemed very passionate about his work. He spent time talking to me on the phone about what he does to make sure it was what I was looking for.
We went to a beginners parent and child class in Great Baddow and both thouroughly enjoyed it.
We learnt so much and it really taught my daughter about awareness especially surrounding her phone.
Richard made everyone feel at ease from the word go. Richardso much time making sure that everyone felt ok and was happy and comfortable with how things were going.
The small class size was really good for my daughter and she really came out of herself during the session. Even happy to take Richard down in front of everyone (something I never thought I would see)!
I can see that this is going to build her confidence massively. Additionally, we are both going to learn some really important life skills.
We are definitely signing up to continue his classes. As an added bonus that my daughter can use the sessions for her Duke of Edinburgh’s award.
I would highly recommend these classes to anyone. Richard was particularly good at making people feel comfortable that may otherwise be very anxious.”
Further reviews
Thank you for reading; any questions please call or email.
Richard 07798 628207 richard@selfdefenceandfitness.com
Essex outdoor self defence
What is your reason to learn self defence?
Looking for an Essex outdoor self defence activity, suitable for adults, teens, children or the whole family together?
Students attend my Essex classes outdoors in Mountnessing, Brentwood and Great Baddow, Chelmsford for many reasons.
Many people are seeking to improve confidence, fitness and self esteem, some have had a frightening experienced.
Others are keen to meet new friends whilst exercising and learning important life skills. SDF Essex sessions teach personal safety with effective self defence techniques, including knife and rape defence, standing and floor based skills.
This year anti bullying week is 13th November. Bullying – Never under estimate how great an impact bullying can have on someone’s confidence. Bullying can be physical or emotional and doesn’t just happen in the school playground. Anti bullying week is 13th to 17th November 2023
Essex Outdoor Self Defence Anti-Bullying Testimonial
..I enrolled my two boys ages 10 and 13 to join SDF Essex for several reasons.
School bullying is rife in many schools and when such a situation would arise with my sons it was always a challenge for me to advise on the best approach to deal with these occurrences.
Richard gave very clear advice on how to deal with and defuse.
Essex Parent
SDF Essex Self Defence Testimonial
… The teaching is really good and caters for all abilities and fitness levels. I love the mix of outdoor fitness and personal defence training outdoors.
As for the self defence I feel the benefit already in being more safety aware and with regular practice I am improving every session.
Why not come along and try something different you’ll love it! …
SDF Essex self defence student
SDF Essex self defence club training
The training can help deliver the benefits referred to above. October and November are great months to start something new, why not find out about SDF Essex half day beginners’ outdoor self defence classes in Mountnessing, Brentwood and Great Baddow Chelmsford.
Alternatively enquire about you hosting a group self defence session indoors or outdoors.
Self defence class options
A half day beginners self defence classes with SDF Essex
SDF Essex weekly classes
Women’s self defence class
Parent Child Self Defence
Self Defence for Groups
Contact SDF Essex Self defence training
Contact Richard Mitchener the Instructor at SDF Essex for more information or to book onto a session, or host your own group activity.
richard@selfdefenceandfitness.com 07798628207
SDF Essex self defence social media please follow.
Self defence parent child
Are you interested in a 1-off self defence parent child workshop in Brentwood, Chelmsford during the summer?
Parents with children going into school years 6 & 7 in September; the training will help build confidence and awareness as your child starts to become a little more independent.
The half day self defence parent child session covers theory, mobile phone safety and practical techniques.
Mountnessing Brentwood & Great Baddow Chelmsford class details
Self defence parent child dates TBC.
The price is £30pp
How to book/ find out more:
If you would like more info or to book, please phone me or email asap.
It’s Fun, helps with awareness, fitness & confidence and it’s an important life skill.
SDF Essex Reviews
“Always made us feel welcome and the ‘no one is better than anyone else’ attitude at the training sessions makes you feel very at ease. Everyone knuckles down to learn. Richard is professional & personable. I wouldn’t hesitate in recommending him”.
“Absolutely love this. Richard makes it fun and informative, it’s a great workout” …
“Me, my partner and my son thoroughly enjoyed the morning and we’d love to go back for more sessions!…
Invaluable advice and training that everyone can benefit from no matter what your age”…
Self Defence parent child classes in Brentwood and Chelmsford
My self defence (life skill) training covers both theory for personal safety awareness as well as very effective practical skills covering standing, floor and take down techniques, based on biomechanics not strength.
Many of my students attend my classes in connection with their DofE awards.
Learning self defence techniques isn’t about fighting, you don’t have to hurt the attacker, you just have to stop them from hurting you.
Practical skills are applied as a final resort, students are not taught to fight.
Self defence next moves and more information
If you are interested to find out more regarding SDF Essex self defence training options, including women’s groups, staff events / team building and half day beginners classes, please call or email now.
info@selfdefenceandfitness.com
07798 628207
Thank you for your interest, have a great week.
Richard
SDF Essex Self Defence Instructor
SDFEssex Personal Safety Tips
Safety campaigns tips
SDFEssex personal safety tips. Please be aware of the following safety campaigns:
- Ask For Angela Campaign
- Reporting Assault on the Rail Network i.e. Text 61016
- If you are unable to speak on a 999 call when prompted type 55 then the emergency operator will know you can’t speak.
Car Park safety tips
If you are uncomfortable or suspect something isn’t right before approaching your vehicle, return back to your previous location e.g. shop, restaurant, work or security and ask for help.
If you regularly drive your car into a parking space, please be aware when you return to your car if you reverse out of the parking space. On your return once you have approached & unlocked your vehicle in the car park, put any bags in the car & go inside.
It is best to lock the doors immediately, start the engine & select reverse. If you look into the rear-view mirror & notice a leaflet / sticker on the rear window think carefully about your next actions.
It is so easy to simply deselect the gear, jump out of the car, engine still running, & walk to the back of the car to remove the leaflet etc. So what’s wrong with this approach? What are we vulnerable to?
Theft, Risk of being hurt from your car being driven off by someone. Abduction in your own vehicle. I heard about a vehicle jacking several years ago in Essex, it happens. The Safer option? Do Not Get Out of the vehicle at that time. Just reverse the vehicle out of the parking space, drive out of the car park & remove the leaflet later.
Defusing a potentially bad situation
Practical self defence techniques that I teach are to be used as a last resort. If I can talk my way out of an attack before it becomes physical that is my goal.
What we say and how we say it is important, we do not want to make things worse, these situations can escalate rapidly. We need to calm things down without saying “calm down”
…SDFEssex self defence club
What happens at SDFEssex self defence club after attending a beginners class in the next few sessions?
SDFEssex self defence club runs weekly classes, are on a pay as you go basis and great fun. The weekend training venues are in Great Baddow Chelmsford and Mountnessing Brentwood Essex.
2023 plans to open Wednesday day time classes in Brentwood Essex.
The first 6 / 8 weeks of training covers a variety of techniques. This gives the students a good general awareness and understanding of the SDFEssex self defence syllabus.
This approach covers various types of attacks, which I believe is so important.
SDFEssex Self Defence Students learn how apply the most appropriate response to where or how the attack has been initiated. Including approached from behind, escaping from a headlock, dealing with a gang attack, considering a weapon attack and floor techniques, including rape defence if requested.
Fights and attacks are messy, therefore knowing a range of techniques early on, even if not perfected, can help with confidence and ability. SDFEssex self defence club teaches both left and right handed techniques.
Self defence training in Essex
Beyond the 6 to 8 week period training focuses on making attacks a little more challenging to apply skills learnt. At the end of each class I pressure-test all students. This involves students putting as many skills into practice as possible to help with avoiding freezing in an anxious situation.
This allows them to experiment with applying different techniques and to look for ways to increase their endurance.
SDFEssex self defence training is better to know and hopefully not need, then need and not know.
Call for a chat and find out more about the beginners (first) class. What are students / parents saying about the class / training SDFEssex Self Defence Testimonials
Richard Mitchener
SDFEssex Self Defence Instructor in Essex
07798 628207
info@selfdefenceandfitness.com
SDFEssex Self Defence Quiz
SDFEssex self defence quiz – My self defence training is not about learning to fight, it’s about learning how to avoid getting hurt in an attack.
‘I don’t have to hurt my attacker; I just have to stop them from hurting me.’
Sadly, hardly a week goes by now when we don’t hear about some kind of an attack.
Learning self defence helps build confidence, it is also a life skill that is better to know and not need than need and not know!
If you or someone you know might be interested in finding out more, please call or pass my details on to them, to discuss sessions in 2022, thank you.
I hope you find the SDFEssex Self Defence Quiz beneficial.
All answers have been posted on either my FB personal account or FB / Instagram SDF Essex pages within the last 2 weeks.
I will list the answers on Christmas Eve on those accounts. Good Luck and Have Fun.
SDF Essex Self Defence Quiz
- Q1 What number do you text to report an attack on Network Rail?
- Q2 Can you use my self defence training as a physical activity for a Duke of Edinburgh award?
- Q3 What can you do to help improve your safety when you need to take a phone call or text when out in the high street?
- Q4 How does wearing 1 earphone / air pod etc. help your personal safety when out walking or running?
- Q5 In line with the national campaign to notify a staff member in a pub / club that you need help, what is the woman’s name that you ask for?
- Q6 After attending a self defence class, what do most students quote as the main benefit to them?
- Q7 When calling for help, what could you say to target the person you want to help you?
- Q8 If you are unable to speak on a 999 call, when prompted, what number do you press to notify the operator you can’t or are unable to speak?
- Q9 Antibullying week is in November, name 2 forms of bullying?
- Q10 In the stages of an attack, what does the first “S” stand for in SDF Essex? (It’s not Self)
- Q11 What’s the youngest age that a student can join my self defence classes from?
- Q12 Fill in the gaps.
- Students attending my self defence classes will learn how to not F***** in an attack. I refer to this as “the 3 F’s” Flight, Fight and F*****.
- Learning self defence is an important life skill, it’s better to know and not need, than need and *** know.
- Being bullied isn’t a sign of ********, being a bully isn’t a sign of strength.
Contact details SDF Essex Self Defence
If you or someone you know would like to find out more, please feel free to share my details or contact me on 07798 628207 or email richard@selfdefenceandfitness.com
https://www.facebook.com/SDFEssex
I would like to make a special mention and thanks to all the SDF Essex self defence students.
I wish everybody a happy festive season, and an epic 2022, Keep Safe.
Richard
SDFEssex Self Defence Instructor