Sensei, Dave Woods, appears to be overtaken by students during a Women’s Self-Defense Seminar in Kitscoty on June 24.
Photo submitted
To empower women, Sensei Dave Woods, will be hosting a Women’s Self-Defense Seminar at the Kitscoty Legion on August 12, from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Helping make them realize what they are capable of, Woods will give the women tips that he hopes they will turn into habits to keep themselves safe.
The course will include a lecture portion on being alert, aware of one’s surroundings, and being assertive if necessary. Discussing the idea of hunters and prey, Woods will cover what attackers look for in victims.
“Sensory deprivation can cause accidents and danger of becoming a predator’s target,” said Woods.
Woods recommends that if wearing earphones while jogging, that you tuck one in your shirt to remain audibly conscious of your surroundings. Woods will also discuss indoor and outdoor home security and cell phone apps to promote safety.
Woods draws on his 20 years of law enforcement; 13 of which was in corrections, and two and a half of those were solely planted in a protective custody unit. In 1984, Woods became involved in martial arts after being bullied in school. Woods has a 5th degree black belt in Jiu Jitsu and a 1st degree black belt in Karate.
“My training provided me with the confidence I needed to defend myself if necessary but walk away whenever possible. I often tell students, ‘Fighting is always the last resort. It is better to swallow your pride than swallow your teeth,’” said Woods.
According to Woods, the Canadian Jiu Jitsu Union is focussed more on street defense rather than tournaments and sparring. He went on to say that self-defense is like insurance, in that it is better to have it and not need it than it is to need it and not have it.
Those who attend will also receive hands on practice with focus pads. Women will be able to demonstrate their skills on the instructor who will be wearing full padding. According to Woods, some students will be returning for their third seminar, saying that they pick up something new every time. Woods aims to give women the mindset that they can do it; to overcome fear, and if necessary how to use their body as a weapon. For more information or to register, call 780-259-0128.