Martial Arts in Melbourne
Self Defence Classes for Women in Melbourne
Walk with Real Confidence
Women’s Self Defence Classes
Our self defence classes for women at Guests Martial Arts in Thornbury, Melbourne teach practical skills that work in real situations, whatever your size, age or fitness. Women train alongside other adults in our regular martial arts and self defence classes, taught by Craig Guest, teaching in Thornbury since 1997.
Women-only self defence courses are coming in 2027. Call 03 9495 1929 or contact us to be the first to hear when they open.
What You’ll Learn
- Situational awareness: spotting trouble early and avoiding it.
- Escapes from wrist grabs, bear hugs, headlocks and chokes.
- Striking and kicking to create space and get away.
- Ground escapes if you are knocked down or pinned.
- Knife Defence, including creating distance and protecting yourself.
- Confidence to stay calm, set boundaries and act decisively.
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.
Self Defence for Any Size or Fitness
Our self defence relies on leverage, timing and technique rather than strength, which is why it suits women so well: a smaller person can control and escape from a larger attacker. Most women start as complete beginners. You learn the basics first, practise with supportive training partners, and train at your own level as your fitness and confidence grow.
Your First Class
Start with our Free Trial Classes: 4 free classes plus a free uniform. Arrive 15 minutes early and we will get you set up, introduce you to your instructor and pair you with an experienced, friendly training partner. Women can join any adult class on the timetable below.
I do the adults class too, and we also both do the Kickboxing. As an older woman this is exactly the kind of exercise I need to keep my bones and my muscles strong.
— Rose R.
Adults Timetable
Adults Martial Arts (16+) - 90 Minutes
Adults Martial Arts and Self Defence is suitable for beginners through to advanced students.
If you are new, arrive 15 minutes early and we will get you set up.
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.
Looking for your daughter? Girls train in our Ninja Stars (4½ to 7), Samurai Warriors (8 to 10) and Junior Adults (11 to 15) classes.
Women’s Self Defence at a glance
- Who
- Women aged 16 and over, complete beginners welcome
- Style
- Practical martial arts and self defence
- Class length
- 90 minutes
- Instructor
- Taught by Craig Guest, teaching in Thornbury since 1997
- Free trial
- 4 free classes plus a free uniform. Book online.
- Women-only courses
- Coming in 2027
- Location
- 272 Dundas St, Thornbury, Melbourne
Women’s Self Defence: common questions
Do I need experience or fitness to start?
No. Most women start as complete beginners. You learn the basics first and train at your own level as your fitness and confidence grow.
Are the classes women-only?
Our regular adult classes are mixed, and women train alongside men in a respectful, supportive environment. Women-only self defence courses are coming in 2027.
Will self defence work if I am small?
Yes. Our self defence relies on leverage, timing and technique rather than strength, so a smaller person can control and escape from a larger attacker.
What should I wear to my first class?
Comfortable exercise clothes. Our free trial includes a free uniform for when you continue.
Is it safe?
Yes. Techniques are practised in a controlled way with supportive partners under instructor supervision, and Pressure Testing is only introduced once you are ready.
Book Your Free Trial
Fill in this short form and we'll be in touch, usually the same day, to find the best class time for you.
- Adults Martial Arts (16+): 4 free classes plus a free uniform.
Prefer to talk? Call us on 03 9495 1929.
Looking at other classes? See all our trial classes.
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