Which Is The Best Martial Art For Women's Self-Defense? | Why Every Woman Should Do Jiu-Jitsu

1 in 3 women have experienced physical or sexual violence. These days, you can't rely on anyone to protect you– the government, police officers, strangers, etc., you never know who will be there to guard you. Your safety is in your hands. 

Dangerous people can sense vulnerability. As a woman, sometimes you can't help but feel like you have a target on your back. However, research suggests there is power in situational awareness– “attention is prevention!" How does this tie into Jiu-Jitsu?

Jiu-Jitsu is widely known to boost situational awareness and confidence. It gives you a sense of security you can not fake. Having assurance, knowing that you have the ability to neutralize an attacker with your bare hands, is a feeling you must experience regardless of age, gender, or skill. The martial art itself simulates real-life scenarios. You learn how to stay alert of your surroundings, ready to counter whatever move your opponent may make.

The most disheartening part of advocating Jiu-Jitsu for women's self-defense, is the fact that most women will refuse to try it. There is a misconception that Jiu-Jitsu/martial arts are just for guys. Even though prominent figures like Ffion Davies, Adele Fornarino, and Mackenzie Dern are showing that BJJ isn't just a guy's game, the stereotype still exists. The crazy part is Jiu-Jitsu is perfect for women!J Jiu-Jitsu teaches you how to leverage a bigger, stronger opponent using proper technique. In the sport, you utilize throws, chokeholds, and joint locks-- forces that can be as debilitating as you choose.

Makenna Ratchford at Finishers HQ

Jiu-jitsu is a sport for everyone. Not just men. We want women to be comfortable in our gym but we also want them to be comfortable in life. If you are a woman looking to train for self-defense, give BJJ a try. My best piece of advice for those considering– Don't shy away from trying Jiu-Jitsu if it isn't a women’s only class. Training with only women gives you a false sense of security. Who are you more likely training to defend yourself from? A man or a woman? Given that men are the most common perpetrators of violence against women, it would be naive to want to train with ONLY women.

The training room is a great environment to safely learn no matter your gender and practice self-defense in a realistic scenario.

Still wondering how to defend yourself as a woman or curious “Where are self-defense classes near me?” At Pride Lands MMA, we have been serving the NEPA community for over 15 years. We are located in Scranton, PA easily accessible for those looking for classes near Scranton, Dunmore, Clarks Summit, Old Forge, Wilkes Barre, and more. We welcome everyone to come as they are and join us for classes. Come try out our Jiu-Jitsu 101 Program designed for beginners to learn the most practical Jiu-Jitsu moves to prepare themselves for the real world.