Congratulations on completing your Ladies Self-Defence session at Rise Above Martial Arts! Taking the step to learn practical self-defence skills is empowering, confidence building, and life-changing. But many women ask us the same question after finishing the program:

“What should I do next?”

Self-defence is not a one-time skill, it’s a journey. Like any physical ability, it grows stronger with continued practice, learning, and confidence building experiences. At Rise Above Martial Arts, we believe every woman deserves options that fit her goals, lifestyle, and comfort level.

Whether you’re looking to continue your martial arts journey long-term, focus solely on real-life self-defence, or stay sharp with flexible training opportunities, we have a path for you.

Why Continuing Your Self-Defence Training Matters

Our Ladies Self-Defence program is designed to give women essential tools quickly but ongoing practice helps:

• Reinforce muscle memory for real-life situations

• Improve reaction time under stress

• Build physical strength and coordination

• Increase confidence and situational awareness

The more you train, the more natural these skills become. Continuing your training also provides ongoing support from instructors and fellow students who are on the same empowerment journey.

Hear From a Recent Graduate: Cassy’s Journey

I never expected a simple giveaway entry to change the way I see myself but that’s exactly what happened when martial arts entered my life.

Hello! I’m Cassy, and I’m writing to share my lovely—and ever-growing—experience with Rise Above Martial Arts. My journey began when, by sheer luck, I won an 11-week Ladies Self-Defence session through an International Women’s Day giveaway. As a 28-year-old solo mom with very little time for myself or hobbies outside of parenting, I was thrilled to try something new; especially something that could benefit me in a worst-case scenario. Having the ability to protect yourself in a dangerous situation is something all women should know, and this opportunity felt like a step toward reclaiming strength for myself.

Ladies Self-Defence was exactly what I needed. It provided a welcoming, comfortable atmosphere filled with all sorts of wonderful women. The instructors were knowledgeable, kind, accommodating, and patient, creating a space where learning felt empowering rather than intimidating. The class is a great place to build confidence and learn basic defence skills against common attacks women may face. If trying it has been a lingering thought in the back of your mind, I say do it—bite the bullet!

When Ladies Self-Defence ended, I knew I wasn’t done. It sparked a flame inside me, and suddenly I was on fire for martial arts. There was no hesitation, I signed up for the beginner adult session. I’m currently in my second session, working toward my yellow belt, and training at Rise Above has been nothing short of amazing. The self-discipline, the exercise, and the pride that comes with progress are incredibly rewarding. Smaller class sizes allow for more one-on-one time to perfect techniques and forms, and Ma’am Sarra is truly an exceptional teacher.

Transitioning from self-defence to adult classes was a no-brainer for me. I knew that if I held onto what I learned without continued practice, the muscle memory would eventually fade. If—though I pray I never have to—I ever find myself needing to protect myself from harm, I know I’ll be more confident because I continue to learn, grow, and strengthen myself.

What started as a free class became a commitment to my own growth. Ladies Self-Defence is a wonderful introduction to the wide world of martial arts, but it’s only the beginning. There is always more to learn, and at Rise Above Martial Arts, I’ve found not just training but confidence, strength, and a version of myself I’m proud to keep building.

Option 1: Continue Your Journey in Adult Martial Arts Classes

For many women, Ladies Self-Defence is just the beginning.

Our Adult Traditional Martial Arts Program is perfect for those who want a deeper, more comprehensive training experience. This program blends practical self-defence with traditional martial arts elements to create well-rounded students.

In adult classes, you’ll learn:

• Advanced self-defence techniques and combinations

• Martial arts forms that improve balance, coordination, and focus

• Weapons training for skill development and discipline

• Controlled sparring to build confidence and timing in a safe environment

Unlike short-term programs, this curriculum is progressive and structured, allowing students to grow steadily through a belt system.

Benefits of Adult Martial Arts Training:

• Improved strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular health

• Enhanced confidence and mental resilience

• Stress relief and increased focus

• A strong sense of community and accountability

This option is ideal for women who:

•  Want to master self-defence over time
• Enjoy structured learning and goal setting
• Are motivated by earning belts and progressing
• Want both fitness and practical skills

This path allows women to deep dive into self-defence, building a strong foundation that lasts a lifetime.

Option 2: Repeat the Ladies Self-Defence Program for Continued Confidence

Not everyone is looking for long-term martial arts training and that’s okay.

If you loved the fast-paced, practical nature of Ladies Self-Defence and want to focus strictly on real-life scenarios, repeating the program is a fantastic option.

Each session reinforces critical techniques such as:

• Effective striking for self-protection

• Safe falling and recovery

• Escaping from grabs, holds, and chokes

• Defending against common attacks and weapon threats

Repeating the program helps deepen muscle memory, sharpen reflexes, and build even more confidence.

Why many women choose to re-join:

• Life gets busy, repetition helps maintain skills

• New students bring fresh energy and learning opportunities

• Techniques feel more natural with each session

The experience remains:

Supportive. Empowering. Focused on real-world self-defence, all within an all-female environment.

Perfect for women who:

• Want practical self-defence without long-term commitment
• Prefer women-only classes
• Want skills they can use immediately

Option 3: Stay Sharp With Bi-Annual Ladies Self-Defence Seminars

For women with limited availability, our bi-annual self-defence seminars provide a flexible way to stay prepared.

Held during:

• International Women’s Day

• Domestic Violence Awareness Month

These 3-hour workshops are designed to refresh key techniques and introduce updated scenarios.

You’ll review:

• Core self-defence movements

• Awareness strategies

• Escapes and counter techniques

Benefits of the seminars:

• Quick skill refreshers
• Increased confidence in real-life situations
• No long-term commitment
• Supportive women-only environment

Best for women who:

• Have busy schedules
• Want weekend availability
• Can’t commit to a full session
• Want to maintain their self-defence skills

Choosing the Right Path After Ladies Self-Defence

There’s no “one size fits all” approach to self-defence training.

Some women thrive in structured martial arts programs with long-term goals. Others prefer focusing strictly on real-life self-defence skills. Some enjoy occasional refreshers that fit into busy lives.

All options lead to the same outcome:

• Increased confidence
• Improved safety awareness
• Stronger bodies and minds

At Rise Above Martial Arts, we’re proud to support women at every stage of their journey. Completing Ladies Self-Defence is an incredible first step but it doesn’t have to be the last.

Whether you’re ready to:

• Commit to adult martial arts training
•  Strengthen your real-world self-defence skills
• Attend empowering refresher seminars

We’re here to help you rise above.