Private Boxing Lessons
Self Defence - No Excuses!
The idea of spending an hour attempting to learn to box in my living room with two reluctant friends one Wednesday night was far from appealing. It was dark, rainy, and I was feeling far from energetic. However, I was assured that Phil, the ex professional boxer who was coming to equip me and my far from gym friendly mates with some vital self defence skills, was a gentleman, and more importantly, that he would not laugh at us!
Learning - at my convenience...
The idea is simple. Coach Phil has had over 40 fights as a professional boxer, is a seasoned fighter and has a wealth of experience as a doorman on several of Manchester’s busiest bars and clubs. His strategy is not only original, but potentially highly successful. No need to go to the gym to train, as Phil’s classes are taught from your own home.
As a gym-shy woman myself, I understand how daunting exercise classes can be, and it is often easier not to bother. However, as I listened intently to Phil reel off the latest statistics about violent attacks, burglaries and muggings in the area, it began to worry me how few of us have even basic defence skills.
The value of protection...
He began the class by outlining his philosophies, what he hoped we would achieve and also providing a background to himself. Whilst the idea of a boxer that you have never met coming into your home may sound threatening, he instantly puts you at ease. With two young daughters himself, he finds it shocking that young women today are not bothering to learn how to defend themselves. According to Phil, ‘I’m 6’ 1”, with a flat nose, but if something goes bump in the night, I still jump.’ Sound familiar? Phil’s motivation is to apply his years of professional fighting to help women protect themselves in an increasingly violent society.
How it works...
You can take the class at your own speed, but as complete beginners, we began by working mainly on balance. Whilst you can be taught on an individual basis, groups of 2 or 3 are often better as this allows Phil to develop more realistic ‘sparring’ situations with you. Once my friends and I had spent some time developing the correct stance and learning the initial body mechanics of the sport we really started having fun, alternating between attacker and victim.
Phil provides gloves and a punch bag, and is there every step of the way, providing encouragement and motivation. It was a fun and practical way of easing us into self-defence in a very relaxed setting. Not only did I learn some vital skills; I also learnt a great deal about the importance of defending ourselves. And most importantly, Phil’s key philosophy... 'We are all worth defending’.
So, to sum up. All you need to do is pick up the phone and Phil will come to you, arming you with all the means to defend yourself effectively in any situation. Very little effort for potentially very great benefit. Don't delay - your safety is too important to not make that phone call to Phil.
Details:
What: Self defence classes: Personal training in a non-threatening environment, working to people’s individual needs and capabilities. Just mention Didsbury Life when you call for 20% discount on first lesson.
How much: From £17 - £32. See website for details or see menu/price link on Didsbury Life
Where: Local to Didsbury, from your own home! Phil can also use Manchester city centre gyms, should that be more suitable to his clients.
Words by Amy Blackburn
