Self-Defense Classes Help B.C. Woman Fend Off Attacker

At Protect Her Path, we believe that self-defense training is a vital tool for empowering women to protect themselves in threatening situations. The recent experience of Maria Hansen, a woman from British Columbia, highlights just how crucial these skills can be. When faced with a sudden and violent attack, Hansen relied on the techniques she learned in her self-defense classes to fend off her assailant and escape to safety. Her story is a powerful reminder of the importance of being prepared and the real-life impact that self-defense training can have. As we continue to advocate for women’s safety, stories like Hansen’s underscore the value of self-defense education and the confidence it can provide.

A woman from British Columbia is attributing her self-defense classes to helping her fend off an attacker.

Maria Hansen, who lives in the Comox Valley, experienced the attack last Saturday night. After stepping outside to close her gate, a man grabbed her arm and slammed her into the gate twice. Recalling her training, Hansen struck him in the face with her palms and managed to escape into her house to retrieve her husband’s golf club. Her husband was not at home during the incident.

Following the attack, Hansen visited the emergency room and was diagnosed with a concussion. She reported the incident to the RCMP, who assured her they would follow up. Hansen believes the self-defense classes equipped her with the necessary skills to protect herself.

Hansen initially took the classes for something to do, never expecting to need them so soon. She shared that the classes covered how to defend against attacks from various angles, emphasizing the importance of staying close to the attacker to reduce their ability to strike.

Adam Morden, who teaches the self-defense classes at Gracie Jiu-Jitsu in Courtenay, B.C., explained that the classes have been beneficial to the community for about 11 years. According to Morden, the training has helped many individuals avoid dangerous situations by boosting their confidence, boundary-setting abilities, and awareness.

Morden expressed his relief that Hansen could use her skills to defend herself. He mentioned that they offer a free women’s self-defense class every Saturday at 10:30 a.m., open to everyone in the community without any registration requirements. He suggested bringing a friend to the classes.

Hansen plans to continue attending the classes to further develop her skills, admitting she never anticipated needing this training but now sees its value.