Self-defence training for schools, colleges, universities, businesses, community groups and more.
A safe and welcoming environment where students can acquire essential self-defence skills to protect themselves and their families.
Bespoke classes in Yorkshire: Individually tailored to your requirements.
About Us
Defend Yourself was established in 2024 by Sensei Karen Turner, a 5th Dan black belt and the 2023 World Karate Confederation European Kata Champion. In addition, she also won the WKC World Kata Silver Medal in 2024. With more than 40 years of experience in Karate, Sensei Karen has achieved European medals in every colour.
In 1999 Sensei Karen founded - and continues to run - Driffield Karate Academy
Karen's commitment and determination makes her uniquely qualified to deliver focused and specialised self-defence courses.
‘Knowledge is Power’
When it comes to Self Defence, it’s better to have the power and not need it, than to need it and not have it!
Contact Karen directly for further information and learn about courses available.
Self-Defence Courses
We prioritise teaching our children how to read and write, but often neglect to educate them on how to protect themselves in today's modern and sometimes frightening world. As adults, we may not be equipped with the necessary skills to handle dangerous situations if they were to arise.
Recognising this gap, Defend Yourself is on a mission to provide a safe and inclusive space where individuals of all ages can learn crucial self-defence techniques to safeguard themselves and their loved ones.
Karen's goal is to empower students with the knowledge to de-escalate a threatening situation, allowing them to safely remove themselves from harm's way. By instilling confidence and the ability to take control of their own safety, individuals can be better prepared in the event of an emergency.
Courses are tailored to meet the needs of the students and can be in small or larger groups - up to a maximum of 20. Courses can be arranged at your establishment at times to suit.
Defend Yourself is East Riding Minimum Operating Standards accredited and holds the Safeguarding Code in Martial Arts.
For further information please contact Karen here.
Testimonials
"I really enjoyed the self defence course. I learnt new skills and Karen made the sessions fun. She is kind and was patient with me. I now feel a bit safer and would know what to do if I was attacked" - Millie, age 12.
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Parent: "Our daughter learned a lot from the self defence course and we could see her grow in confidence after each session. Karen's encouragement and positivity helped her to step outside her comfort zone and she was buzzing after each session. She enjoyed working with Karen and having the chance to meet new people. Karen is a great teacher and we have no hesitation to recommend her sessions to others" - Matt and Jane
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“The self defence class taught students a range of useful skills that are vital to everyone. The class helped boost students confidence in handling potentially dangerous situation on the streets. The teacher was kind and understanding of learning needs. Everyone needs to take this class.” Jess, aged 14
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Parent: “As a parent of young teens every home departure is a worry but accessing the self defence class goes a long way towards feeling more assured that should a situation occur, our children are more equipped to handle themselves. The snippets we saw looked fun and the kids were fully engaged working together, practicing techniques. I would be keen for our children to take refresher courses each year.” - Stacey and Bruce
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“It was fantastic to work with Karen from Driffield Karate Academy to engage girls in learning about self-defence, something that is particularly important in tackling issues such as violence against women and girls. As well as learning practical skills, we could see how all the girls who participated in both the programmes we ran with Karen, developed their confidence and really enjoyed the sessions, with some of them even signing up for future classes. I would definitely recommend working with Karen if you would like to learn more about this transformational martial art.” - Detty Tyler, Children and Young People's Services Coordinator and VCSE Safeguarding Support Service manager.
Safeguarding
At Defend Yourself, student wellbeing is paramount. Safeguarding policies and procedures have been adopted for the best interests and welfare of all students. It is our commitment to ensure students feel safe and supported.
Should you have any concerns or require further information the Local Authority Designated Officer can provide assistance using the links below:
Safeguarding Children
https://www.eastriding.gov.uk/living/children-and-families/childrens-social-care/support-and-protection-for-children/#
Safeguarding Adults
https://www.ersab.org.uk/
Self-Defence & The Law
Self-defence training equips individuals with skills that can be utilised for both sport and protection of oneself, others, or property. While no one desires to find themselves in a situation where these skills must be put to the test, the reality is that such scenarios can arise. Therefore, it is crucial for students to understand the legal implications of using self-defence techniques and how to handle such situations effectively.
Do you comprehend the laws surrounding self-defence? Are you aware of what constitutes reasonable force? Did you know that you do not have to wait to be physically attacked before taking action?
These are just a few of the questions that will be addressed in Karen's classes. By incorporating a theoretical component into her instruction, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of their rights and limitations when it comes to self-defence. Prepare to be enlightened by the valuable knowledge you will acquire!
Crime Statistics
Here’s why you should learn to defend yourself ............
Find out more at the Police.uk website where you can enter your postcode for an interactive map to allow you to view crime data in your area.
Your local police provides a wealth of information about crimes in your area and offers support and advice for those affected by crime.
