Martial Arts in Melbourne
Real-World Self Defence for Ivanhoe East
Practical Self Defence, about 15 minutes' drive from Ivanhoe East

Self Defence isn't about fighting. It's about getting home safely. At Guest's Martial Arts, about 15 minutes' drive from Ivanhoe East, we teach people from Ivanhoe East, Ivanhoe and Eaglemont how to recognise danger, avoid it, and protect themselves if they have to.
How our Self Defence classes work
- Short, clear techniques practised until they're automatic.
- Taught at your level – no experience or fitness needed.
- Free gradings – progress at your own pace.
- A 700m² dojo with parking nearby.
Self Defence for Ivanhoe East kids, teens and adults
- Children's Self Defence (5 to 10) – through Ninja Stars and Samurai Warriors: bullying, stranger safety and a strong voice. Handy for families at Ivanhoe East Primary School and Ivanhoe Primary School.
- Teenagers (11 to 15) – Junior Adults, our most Self-Defence-focused programme, with Knife Defence from 11. Close by for students at Thornbury High School.
- Adults (16+) – practical Self Defence through martial arts training, evenings, weekday mornings or Saturdays.
- Women – see our Women's Self Defence classes.
What our students and parents say
Great family friendly dojo. Very unique martial arts if you’re interested in practical defence techniques - boxing is great for fitness also.
— Sean M.
As someone totally new to martial arts, I’ve felt nothing but welcomed … as a short, small framed woman, it gives me some sense of empowerment I’ve never had before. Recommend for girls/ women of any age, and any experience.
— Ash D.
I've been training in Japanese Jiu Jitsu and attending Adult Kickboxing classes for the last 3 years and I learn something new and valuable from the staff every time I go there. I would highly recommend this school to anyone wanting to start training in martial arts as an adult…
— Natasha G.
Had an awesome experience. Craig is super skilled, patient, and really know how to push you while keeping it fun. Everyone’s welcoming, and the training is really inviting for a beginner.
— Andrew C.
Amazing culture here and a very practical martial art. I've done martial arts for over 20 years and have struggled to find a club that balances humour, practicality, realistic techniques and education as well as this place.
— Andrew D.
Self Defence questions from Ivanhoe East
How far is your Self Defence class from Ivanhoe East?
We're at 272 Dundas St, Thornbury, on the corner of Chifley Drive – around 15 minutes north-west of Ivanhoe East by car, depending on traffic. There's parking nearby.
Are there Self Defence classes for women?
Yes. See our Women's Self Defence classes at the same Thornbury dojo.
Do you run Self Defence courses or ongoing classes?
Ongoing classes all week, so you can start any time and keep improving.
How do I start?
Book a free trial online: 4 free classes plus a free uniform for kids, teens and adults.
More classes near Ivanhoe East
Our Melbourne dojo on Dundas St, Thornbury is close to Ivanhoe East. Read more about our Self Defence classes in Melbourne, or our Self Defence for women.
Also close by: Self Defence near Eaglemont, Self Defence near Ivanhoe and Self Defence near Heidelberg.
Feel safer near Ivanhoe East. Start with a free trial.
Contact Guest's Martial Arts
Interested in training? Contact us to find out more about our classes or arrange a free trial.
- Phone03 9495 1929
- Emailadmin@guestsmartialarts.com.au
- Address272 Dundas St, Thornbury VIC 3071