Self Defense
Kettle Bell Class Pictures
25/01/13 14:29
Here are some new pictures of our kettle bell classes last week:
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Buy Taser Products
09/01/13 14:17
Now you can purchase Taser Products through Define Defense! Read more underneath about their fantastic products and benefits!
The Value of TASER
The TASER® C2™ is a highly sophisticated personal protection system, yet it's surprisingly easy to use. It was designed based on feedback from hundreds of law enforcement officers and citizens to respond to situations quickly, effectively and safely. The TASER C2 uses the same technology as the law enforcement version but it is compact, lightweight, and discreet enough to be carried every day. It's safe, easy to carry, and easy to use. Most importantly it provides what no other personal safety device on the market can - a 15 foot, 30 second zone of protection so users can take down the bad guys and get to a safe place.
How TASER Works
The TASER brand is internationally known as the most effective less-lethal line of ECDs. TASER International's motto is "Protect Life" and all TASER ECDs are designed to immobilize even the most aggressive attackers while protecting lives. This patented technology called Neuro Muscular Incapacitation (NMI) temporarily jams sensory controls and severely limits muscular control.
Advanced Safety Features
- Up to 15 ft. (4.5 m) zone of protection between you and an attackers
- 30 second electrical pulse allows you time to safely escape a dangerous situation
- Bold laser sighting system enables accurate aim
- Integrated LED light illuminates dark spaces to improve your line of vision
- Compact and lightweight design allows it to be easily carried in a hand bag, backpack, briefcase or side holster
- Long-lasting Lithium Power Magazine allows over 50 uses
TASER Products
TASER C2 - the most powerful, effective personal safety device available
- Our most popular consumer product!
- Small, lightweight, and effective at 15 feet
- Comes with 1 C2 cartridge
- Comes with laser sighting, 6 TASER cartridges, Carrying case, DPM practice target, and training materials
TASER Accessories - Including carrying cases, batteries, training targets, cartridge pouches, and branded apparel
Preventing Shootings: Is Gun Control the Answer?
17/12/12 12:20
When I heard about the shooting last Friday in Connecticut, I was devastated. Not only were there many victims but the majority were young children. No matter what a person is thinking or what’s going on in their head, children should be off limits. Right now, the whole country is in shock and everyone agrees to what we all really knew a long time already: something has to change. That is whether you’re pro guns or against guns.
Right after the tragedy, social media posts started pouring in with anger, shock and different messages. One of them was that guns should be banned. What you’ll read further in this article is simply thoughts from me, it’s not meant to be confrontational whatsoever. After all, gun control is an extremely heated topic.
As a native Belgian, I have some thoughts about the issue that may or may not be right. However, there are certain things that I have picked up and I am also able to compare different policies. First of all, let me address what the policy is like in Belgium.
Any adult and 16-18 year old (with approval from parents) is allowed to possess a firearm. I personally had my first firearm when I was 17 years old. The process isn’t easy and there are many restrictions. I had never seen a semi automatic rifle until I came to the US, but Belgium doesn’t have the expansive nature and predators either. When you want a firearm, you have to pass a safety test in the shooting range, as well as an interview with the local sheriff. There are also background checks, you are obligated to be part of a shooting range for the duration you possess your firearm and the police is allowed to make a home visit and make sure that the firearm is safely locked away in a safe.
That raises the question, what can we adopt from this policy? Perhaps that the tests and background checks are more thorough and expansive. You can’t just walk in a store and walk out after a quick check with a firearm. Maybe firearms should be required to be locked in a safe and police can come and check on that. That only might have prevented Adam Lanza of getting his hands on his mothers weapons.
I like firearms. I consider them valuable for sport shooting (target shooting, I don’t hunt personally) and for home defense. If it meant it would resolve all these issues with shootings and people hurting each other, I would gladly give them up. However, it would not be the solution. After all, it’s people hurting people. If they are motivated, they will find other ways unfortunately. That doesn’t mean that we can’t do anything about the law, purchasing process, requirements and background checks though. We can make sure it’s harder for individuals to get them. I personally have nothing to hide and applaud a stricter and slower purchasing process. It might be enough to demotivate certain other individuals who are out to do harm. On the other hand, would this increase the number of firearms on the black market? I don’t know.
When clients ask me about weapons for self defense, I always tell them it can be either really helpful or it can be used against them. That is why it’s a completely personal decision. As with any weapon, you need to know how to use it in a safe way instead of making things more dangerous for yourself or others. Maybe everyone who wants to purchase a firearms should follow a mandatory class which discusses their legal obligations and safety procedures?
Nobody can disagree with the fact that more needs to be done for mental health research and helping patients. There should be a database in which doctors (not only law enforcement) can share their concerns. As it is now, many mentally unstable people can still purchase firearms if there have been no previous charges against them. That is something that needs a major change.
Another topic is the assault weapons ban. After doing some research, I figured out the assault weapons are weapons that have certain requirements such as having military style and/or cosmetic features, as well as having high capacity magazine holders.
As you may already know, full automatic weapons have no place in the general population and are thankfully heavily restricted. The problem with an assault weapons ban is that so many firearms aren’t considered assault weapons but can still do the same damage. There are an extraordinary amount of semi automatic weapons out there and many or most owners will not give these up. It would be very doubtful the government would ever ask them to as any law would not be retroactive anyway. This means that all weapons already in circulation stay there, it only restricts manufacturing and possession going forward. Whether the ban from 1994 - 2004 (banning only certain firearms) worked is up for debate. But keep in mind that the tens of millions of weapons and magazines under the ban stayed in circulation.
I don’t want to get too much into the topic of banning firearms because it’s such a controversial topic. I personally don’t believe the biggest problem is gun control or possession. After all, let’s say you take them all away. The black market ‘criminal’ guns will still be out there. People can’t defend themselves against criminals, predators etc.
Saying that the world is safe enough now and we don’t need guns is incorrect in my belief. Things happen every day all over the map. There are carjackings, homejackings, violent assault, burglaries etc. Take a look at the 2011 riots in London and talk to the people who were stolen from, assaulted and whose residences were lit on fire. History tells us the world is not as stable as everyone wants it to be.
I don’t think there is a definitive answer to the problem, at least not for gun control. I think responsible owners should have the right to possess a firearm for home defense, hunting and sport shooting. I don’t think people should judge others for possessing a firearm as long as they are responsible. I don’t think it makes me look any cooler to have them and I don’t brag with it. It does make me feel safer and I enjoy going to the range every once and a while.
Besides the possibility of banning certain features and making the process stricter and more thorough, there are still a few other issues that have a direct influence to the problem:
- The media needs to stop making lists of who was the deadliest, the most devastating etc. That only motivates other individuals who are out to do harm and want to beat that number. It gives them ideas. Let’s please focus on the victims and how we can solve the problem, not indirectly make it seem like we praise this monster. Of course it’s human curiosity to find out who he was and why he did it but you can see my point.
- Mental health research and guidance (after diagnosis). Many people out there need help and if they got it, they wouldn’t do actions such as these. This is a hard goal to reach but imagine how much heartache we can prevent if we can catch a tendency or unstable temperament etc. in individuals. I don’t know much about the topic so refrain from making it seem like I’m an expert but a better safety net is necessary. Why not have a system in which doctors can ring the alarm bell?
- Why not have security people or a few police officers in institutions (schools, hospitals etc.)? This requires funds and time but also creates jobs right?
- Change the mentality of the population. Violence is put too much in the spotlight. Not everything has to be bigger, better, more violent and aggressive. There is much violence in the media, Hollywood and video games. Why not put the focus on something less destructive?
Our thoughts are with the survivors and the victims’ families. These tragedies happen too much and shouldn’t.
By Sander Vanacker, owner, head instructor and personal trainer .
Define Defense in Boulder, CO
- Mixed Martial Arts
- Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
- Self Defense Classes & Workshops
- Personal Training
- TRX / Cross Training Classes
- Kettle Bell
1805 11th Street Suite B
Boulder, CO 80302
(720) 340 6254
Info@DefineDefense.com
The Best TRX Training Classes in Boulder, CO!
06/12/12 11:06
Define Defense’s TRX / Cross Training classes offer a blend of cross training and TRX instruction and will get you in better shape, make you healthier and feel better about yourself and your performance. Our classes are all levels and our instructors differentiate to make sure everyone is working at their level. Define Defense was the first gym in Boulder to offer real TRX group classes and still offers the most diverse and creative TRX workouts in the area!
Our TRX / Cross Training group classes will give you a functional full body workout, no matter what your level is. It benefits all people, from pro athletes to seniors. It is a revolutionary method of bodyweight exercise in a very safe form, because you have full control over the intensity you use.
- Incredible workouts for core strength
- Suspension training exercises are great for building lean muscle and getting toned
- Over 300 exercises with one tool
- Improve your balance and flexibility
- Fully adjustable for all levels and ages
- Improve your agility and stamina
1805 11th Street Suite B
Boulder, CO 80302
Entrance in the rear of 1095 Canyon Blvd., between Canyon and Walnut on 11th St.
We validate parking for our clients! Please ask us for more information.
Contact us here
Holiday Deals
20/11/12 09:34
Holidays are coming and Define Defense is in the holiday spirit! We are offering our new clients our best deals to date! We offer high quality training in:
- Mixed Martial Arts
- Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
- Self Defense Classes & Workshops
- TRX & Cross Training Classes
- Kettle Bell Classes
- Personal Training
From now until January 1st 2013, we offer the following deals:
Mixed Martial Arts:
20% off memberships and punch cards
+ a free T shirt or tank top
Self Defense:
Four self defense classes, a Mace 10% Pepper Gel and a Define Defense T shirt or tank top for only $99
TRX / Cross Training:
20% off memberships and punch cards
+ a free T shirt or tank top
Kettle Bell Program:
20% off memberships and punch cards
+ a free T shirt or tank top
Personal Training:
First session is free!
Youth Martial Arts:
20% off memberships and punch cards
+ a free Gi
Closed for Thanksgiving
17/11/12 17:42
We wish everyone a very happy Thanksgiving! Since so many people are busy and out of town, Define Defense will be closing on Thanksgiving (Thursday), Friday 11/23/12 and Friday 11/24/12.
Have a great holiday and hope to see you in the beginning of the week or the next week!
As always, when in doubt, please check our online schedule.
Self Defense Holiday Promo
14/11/12 10:38
Take advantage of our Holiday Self Defense Promo! Four self defense classes, a Mace 10% Pepper Gel and a Define Defense T shirt or tank top for only $99!
You can either buy it for yourself or for someone as a gift!
Our next course will start on January 11th until February 1st (every Friday 5-6pm).
The one after that will be from March 1st until March 22nd (every Friday 5-6pm).
*You choose which course you want to attend. If you cannot attend 4 consecutive classes, you may use your remaining classes during the next course!*
To purchase this deal, CLICK HERE.
To purchase a gift card instead, CLICK HERE.
You can sign up for yourself or give the course as a gift to a loved family member or friend!
Next Self Defense Course in January 2013
26/10/12 15:59
Define Defense offers 4 week self defense courses on Fridays from 5-6pm. In these 4 classes, we go over:
- Self defense on the floor against a standing attacker
- Self defense against sexual assault
- Self defense against grabs, chokes and other forceful attacks
- Effective striking
- How to avoid dangerous situations
- How to maximize your chances of escape
- How to use pepper sprays (and other defense sprays)
- Vital points, body language and other proven methods to get yourself into safety
The next self defense course will take place on these dates:
January 11th
January 18th
January 25th
February 1st
Every attendee will receive an information packet. If you cannot attend all 4 consecutive classes, you can use your remaining class(es) during the next course dates.
You can also gift this course to a loved friend or family member!
The price for the full program is only $75.
If you want to reserve a spot, please send us a message at info@definedefense.com or register here (under Self Defense Class):
http://clients.mindbodyonline.com/ws.asp?studioid=14713&stype=41
Spots are limited!
This program combines all of the most effective and realistic ways to defend yourself against any dangers that may occur. We focus on prevention as well as protecting yourself and others. In this course, you will learn how to deal with a crisis situation, mentally as well as physically. Everything we teach is relevant to real situations and applies more realistic training methods for improved results.
Our central Boulder address:
1805 11th Street Suite B
Boulder, CO 80302
(720) 340 6254
Info@DefineDefense.com
Next Self Defense Course Dates
27/09/12 10:30
Define Defense now offers 4 week self defense courses on Fridays from 5-6pm. In these 4 classes, we go over:
- Self defense on the floor against a standing attacker
- Self defense against sexual assault
- Self defense against grabs, chokes and other forceful attacks
- Effective striking
- How to avoid dangerous situations
- How to maximize your chances of escape
- How to use pepper sprays (and other defense sprays)
- Vital points, body language and other proven methods to get yourself into safety
The next self defense course will take place on these dates:
October 26th
November 2nd
November 9th
November 16th
Every attendee will receive an information packet. If you cannot attend all 4 consecutive classes, you can use your remaining class(es) during the next course dates.
The price for the full program is only $75.
If you want to reserve a spot, please send us a message or register here. Spots are limited!
This program combines all of the most effective and realistic ways to defend yourself against any dangers that may occur. We focus on prevention as well as protecting yourself and others. In this course, you will learn how to deal with a crisis situation, mentally as well as physically. Everything we teach is relevant to real situations and applies more realistic training methods for improved results.
Test Dates
26/09/12 14:37
We will be testing on the following dates:
October 4th 2012
November 1st 2012
December 6th 2012
Get your next belt on these dates. You can register on our MindBody website or in studio!
$20, includes the belt if you pass.
Video: How to stand up from ground position
26/09/12 14:12
How to stand up from a ground position in a self defense situation or in MMA fighting. The best way of standing up, you do not lose eye contact, don't disable all limbs and you increase distance while doing it. You should stand up like this every time you want to get up!
Video: Self Defense Position on the Floor
26/09/12 13:35
Self Defense position on the floor to ensure not taking damage and keeping the distance between yourself and your attacker or opponent. Great for self defense purposes and MMA fighting
Back to School Promo
13/08/12 14:37
From August 15th until September 15th, we will be running a Back to School promo!
Youth MMA Program:
Any child who signs up, gets a free custom Define Defense Gi (value: $49.99)
Mixed Martial Arts & Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Program:
New clients get a free custom Define Defense rash guard (value: $40)
TRX / Cross Training Program:
New clients get a free Define Defense T Shirt (value: $19.99)
Knife defense against upwards stab
21/02/12 13:02
Define Defense in Boulder, CO
- Modern Martial Arts
- Brazilian Jiu Jitsu & MMA
- Self Defense Classes & Workshops
- Personal Training
- Cross Training / TRX Classes
1805 11th Street Suite B
Boulder, CO 80302
About Self Defense Classes & Workshops - Crime, Reports and Bad Decisions
01/02/12 15:20
I'm sure you've heard or read about the 20 year old CU student who got ticketed for falsely reporting an attack on University Hill. You can read more about it here.
Her initial story was that she was walking alone when she was grabbed by a 200lbs. knife wielding man. After a struggle, she got away with some minor scratches.
Doesn't add up does it? It may be possible if she was very lucky and the attacker only had the intention to scare her with the knife but did not plan on actually using it. It is definitely possible if she acted and overwhelmed her attacker (you want to take away the attacker's confidence, therefore the Golden Rule of self defense: ACT CRAZY). However, if a 200 lbs. man was wielding with a knife, it would be extremely hard to walk away the way she did. Not just for her but for anyone, including me!
False reports are unfortunate and prevent law enforcement from investigating real crimes. For example:
The armed robbery which turned fatal for Todd Walker (March 2011)
The gunmen who robbed multiple people and sexually assaulted a woman (August, 2011)
A gunman outside the Boulder Community Hospital (April, 2011)
Bank robbery in North Boulder (September, 2011)
CU campus robbery (January, 2012)
Sexual assault attempts (October, 2011)
Does this mean Boulder is an unsafe or bad place to live? Absolutely not! However, as in every big town (and college town), you need to be aware and more importantly, not be naive. Not everyone is trustworthy, you need to be cautious and use common sense.
After all, things happen and you don't control everything or everyone. None of the above victims ever thought this would happen to them but unfortunately it did. We should all try to keep ourselves and others safe. There are many ways to do this but the first step is to realize bad things do happen. Being prepared doesn't hurt. The last thing you want to do is putting yourself in a situation in which bad things can happen.
As a self defense instructor, I spend a lot of attention to all aspects of self defense. It is not simply about the techniques and how to get back to safety but it's also about preventing, scanning, communication (verbal and non verbal), knowing vital points and very important: your mental state.
My wife pointed out an article about self defense a few weeks ago and Linda Fairstein (a former sex crimes prosecutor) addresses a few very bad choices that turned for the worst.
- Kenia Monge from Denver was planning on going to college to become a crime scene investigator so she was an intelligent woman. When she left her friends to go to the restroom when partying, she never came back. Travis Forbes was found guilty for the murder of Kenia. She made one mistake but it cost her and her family dearly. It is very important to use a buddy system when leaving the group, no matter how close or easy your destination is.
- Holly Bobo, a 20 year old student was kidnapped outside her Tennessee home. It seems like Holly did not resist enough, at least not in the initial part of her kidnapping. Traces of resistance were found but it was probably too late. If you feel unsafe, draw attention to yourself. It will lower your attacker's confidence and other people may be able to assist or call 911. Do whatever you can to draw attention and target vital points to maximize damage and pain. Please note that every situation is different and everyone's response is different. When there are weapons involved, it is also a very different scenario so this response may not fit all situations!
- Paula Sladewski had a fight with her boyfriend in a club, it came to a point that her boyfriend was thrown out and she stayed. When she left later, cameras show a man was following her. She didn't make it and up to this day, there is no suspect. Paula made the mistake of making a decision based on her emotions at that time. This affected her safety and it turned for the worst. Always be careful and don't take risks, even if you are upset.
The article focussed on these three situations that were caused by a certain decision. Other people doing the same actions may be fine and many other decisions will also turn out to be the wrong one. Should you lock yourself up and don’t take any risks? No but take calculated risks and please use common sense. It’s better to be safe than sorry. In my mind, every person should take a proper self defense course and know the basics (not because we teach these but I believe things can happen and you should be able to help yourself if needed).
We teach self defense classes 4 times a week and offer punch cards to give our clients the freedom to choose their own times. We focus on every aspect of self defense and make sure you leave with a strong basic knowledge and skill set. All levels and ages are welcome. More info about our self defense classes and workshops here.
By Sander Vanacker, Define Defense’s certified personal trainer and head martial arts instructor, based in Boulder, Colorado. Take a look at www.DefineDefense.com, www.TrainerVanacker.com or check out our videos on YouTube.com/DefineDefense ! Define Defense in Boulder, CO
- Modern Martial Arts
- Brazilian Jiu Jitsu & MMA
- Self Defense Classes & Workshops
- Personal Training
- Cross Training / TRX Classes
1805 11th Street Suite B
Boulder, CO 80302
Red Man Self Defense Training - Advanced Students
31/01/12 10:59
Advanced students going full out on the Red Man. This is not something we do with beginners and is not an everyday practice. It's still a lot of fun though!
Define Defense in Boulder, CO
- Modern Martial Arts
- Brazilian Jiu Jitsu & MMA
- Self Defense Classes & Workshops
- Personal Training
- Cross Training / TRX Classes
1805 11th Street Suite B
Boulder, CO 80302
Define Defense in Boulder, CO
- Modern Martial Arts
- Brazilian Jiu Jitsu & MMA
- Self Defense Classes & Workshops
- Personal Training
- Cross Training / TRX Classes
1805 11th Street Suite B
Boulder, CO 80302
Self Defense for Travelers
11/01/12 14:16
Check out Lori, a client who will be traveling the world and has asked us to teach her self defense before she leaves on her endeavors.
http://www.longjourneyhome.net/
Will you be traveling or do you know someone who will? Then come by for a self defense crash course! You never know what may happen and it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Define Defense in Boulder, CO
- Modern Martial Arts
- Brazilian Jiu Jitsu & MMA
- Self Defense Classes & Workshops
- Personal Training
- Cross Training / TRX Classes
1805 11th Street Suite B
Boulder, CO 80302
http://www.longjourneyhome.net/
Will you be traveling or do you know someone who will? Then come by for a self defense crash course! You never know what may happen and it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Define Defense in Boulder, CO
- Modern Martial Arts
- Brazilian Jiu Jitsu & MMA
- Self Defense Classes & Workshops
- Personal Training
- Cross Training / TRX Classes
1805 11th Street Suite B
Boulder, CO 80302
Mace Dealer - pepper spray training
02/11/11 10:20
Define Defense is now an official Mace dealer. We also teach our clients how to utilize defense sprays in our classes and workshops (don't worry, we don't spray each other).
A few of the Mace products we sell in our studio:
Mace Peppergel
The latest in pepper spray technology - Mace Pepper Gel is a patent pending formulation of maximum strength OC pepper (1.4% capsaicinoids.) The OC pepper is suspended in a sticky gel instead of a liquid. The gel formulation has several advantages: it sprays farther, is less contaminating to the surrounding area and the thick formulation sticks to an attacker’s face. Pepper Gel also contains an invisible UV Dye which marks an assailant and may aid in identification.
The Mace Pepper Gel Large Model contains 45 grams and sprays up to 10 to 20 short bursts with an effective range of up to 18 feet.
Mace Triple Action Pepperspray:
This is one of the most popular Mace brand pepper sprays, named after its triple action formula. With Triple Action you get the power of three agents in a single, superior self-defense spray: OC pepper, Tear Gas (CS) and UV Dye. The advantage of Triple Action pepper spray is that you don’t have to hit a target directly in the face, even if you hit them in the chest, the tear gas will affect them.
The Triple Action personal model is one of our top selling pepper sprays! It is the ideal size to carry with you during outdoor activities. It features a belt clip and key chain that make it easy to carry, a flip-top safety cap to prevent accidental discharge, and a finger grip dispenser that makes it easy to aim.
A few of the Mace products we sell in our studio:
Mace Peppergel
The latest in pepper spray technology - Mace Pepper Gel is a patent pending formulation of maximum strength OC pepper (1.4% capsaicinoids.) The OC pepper is suspended in a sticky gel instead of a liquid. The gel formulation has several advantages: it sprays farther, is less contaminating to the surrounding area and the thick formulation sticks to an attacker’s face. Pepper Gel also contains an invisible UV Dye which marks an assailant and may aid in identification.
The Mace Pepper Gel Large Model contains 45 grams and sprays up to 10 to 20 short bursts with an effective range of up to 18 feet.
Mace Triple Action Pepperspray:
This is one of the most popular Mace brand pepper sprays, named after its triple action formula. With Triple Action you get the power of three agents in a single, superior self-defense spray: OC pepper, Tear Gas (CS) and UV Dye. The advantage of Triple Action pepper spray is that you don’t have to hit a target directly in the face, even if you hit them in the chest, the tear gas will affect them.
The Triple Action personal model is one of our top selling pepper sprays! It is the ideal size to carry with you during outdoor activities. It features a belt clip and key chain that make it easy to carry, a flip-top safety cap to prevent accidental discharge, and a finger grip dispenser that makes it easy to aim.
Article About Serial Killers, Victims & Safety!
19/10/11 15:49
My wife pointed out an interesting article to me from the Cosmopolitan magazine. Since we address this topic in our Women's Self Defense classes and teach much of the same info, I wanted to share some of the article with you.
The article is called 'How serial killers choose their victims' and explains more about serial killers and their victims, methods and most importantly: how to avoid and detect them!
There has been a resurgence in serial killers who target females. The targets could be anyone as some criminals pursue easy targets and others are drawn to successful young women who live normal lives. The criminals themselves should not be stigmatized! It is surprising how 'normal' they are. Do not think you will be able to tell if someone is dangerous because they may act normal, have a family and pets etc. but they may still have a very dark side you cannot detect.
In some situations, the victim simply is at the wrong place at the wrong time but, as we also emphasize when we talk about sexual assault, the criminal may also choose you, stalk you and prepare his actions beforehand. There are many unfortunate killings and rapes that took place because the criminal has checked out where you live, the names on the mailbox, when you come home, where you park and more. That is why we recommend everyone to switch up your routines, take different routes home, leave at different times, get your coffee in different places. Also try to have someone with you when you walk somewhere or go into a parking garage, don't put both earphones in your ears when you are walking or running, put lamps on timers at your home so nobody can tell when you are home or going asleep.
A valuable tip the article mentioned is to look behind you when you are in your car, especially when you are approaching your home. If you think someone is following you, take a right and take a right again to go around the block. If you are being followed, drive controlled to a well lit or busy area and call 911
Whenever you meet someone, be cautious. Of course not every person you meet will be dangerous but don't take risks, don't be overly relaxed and don't do anything stupid. Many of these criminals are very sly and charming and are very good at what they do. That is why many are still out there and still not caught.
Finally, trust your gut! We have a natural alarm system inside of us so listen to it! You may be wrong but it's much better to be safe than sorry... The point is, if you feel something is wrong with someone, it's ok to judge. It is your safety and well being on the line.
If you would like to read more about this topic, we highly recommend the book 'The Anatomy of Motive' by John Douglas.
Define Defense specializes in self defense workshops, seminars and classes for groups of all levels, ages, genders and skills. We believe every person should have a basic understanding and skill set of self defense and teach the most realistic and effective self defense. Define Defense is located in Boulder, Colorado.
The article is called 'How serial killers choose their victims' and explains more about serial killers and their victims, methods and most importantly: how to avoid and detect them!
There has been a resurgence in serial killers who target females. The targets could be anyone as some criminals pursue easy targets and others are drawn to successful young women who live normal lives. The criminals themselves should not be stigmatized! It is surprising how 'normal' they are. Do not think you will be able to tell if someone is dangerous because they may act normal, have a family and pets etc. but they may still have a very dark side you cannot detect.
In some situations, the victim simply is at the wrong place at the wrong time but, as we also emphasize when we talk about sexual assault, the criminal may also choose you, stalk you and prepare his actions beforehand. There are many unfortunate killings and rapes that took place because the criminal has checked out where you live, the names on the mailbox, when you come home, where you park and more. That is why we recommend everyone to switch up your routines, take different routes home, leave at different times, get your coffee in different places. Also try to have someone with you when you walk somewhere or go into a parking garage, don't put both earphones in your ears when you are walking or running, put lamps on timers at your home so nobody can tell when you are home or going asleep.
A valuable tip the article mentioned is to look behind you when you are in your car, especially when you are approaching your home. If you think someone is following you, take a right and take a right again to go around the block. If you are being followed, drive controlled to a well lit or busy area and call 911
Whenever you meet someone, be cautious. Of course not every person you meet will be dangerous but don't take risks, don't be overly relaxed and don't do anything stupid. Many of these criminals are very sly and charming and are very good at what they do. That is why many are still out there and still not caught.
Finally, trust your gut! We have a natural alarm system inside of us so listen to it! You may be wrong but it's much better to be safe than sorry... The point is, if you feel something is wrong with someone, it's ok to judge. It is your safety and well being on the line.
If you would like to read more about this topic, we highly recommend the book 'The Anatomy of Motive' by John Douglas.
Define Defense specializes in self defense workshops, seminars and classes for groups of all levels, ages, genders and skills. We believe every person should have a basic understanding and skill set of self defense and teach the most realistic and effective self defense. Define Defense is located in Boulder, Colorado.
Martial Arts & Fighting
19/09/11 16:32
Often, martial arts is stigmatized with negative actions or behaviors. This is caused by media, the film industry, certain professional or amateur fighters etc. However, in this blog article, I would like to prove that this should not be generalized and it does not have to be this way.
Originally, martial arts was developed to increase the chance of survival. Later on, it started to be used as a sport, in competition, as an art form and more. Mostly, the code of honor and respect was central and utterly important for the practitioners. Of course, there are always bad apples and all human advancements are always used for good and bad causes (think about samurais who valued honor vs. ninjas who were spies and mercenaries).
Some of these traditional martial arts styles are still widely practiced but unfortunately are also very outdated. This will be a ongoing discussion but someone practicing Tai Chi, Karate, traditional Judo etc. will learn many techniques that are simply not functional in a real life situation. This does not mean however, they are less worthy as an art form or for personal development. For self defense, these and many more styles are very overrated and sometimes even useless.
On the other side, martial arts has also evolved over the last decades. Think about Mixed Martial Arts. This is the ultimate competition martial arts form and has proven itself over and over again. For self defense reasons, it may also not be 100% effective though (Brazilian Jiu Jitsu will not work with multiple attackers, an MMA fighter will not know how to defend against a knife or gun attack…)
The issue with this progress is that the self defense aspect is often overlooked and the honor and respect are mostly forgotten. The ratings have gotten so important that most fighters talk badly about each other and have very little respect left. There are exceptions, think about Georges St. Pierre, who has very strong values and is also one of the best martial artists and fighters in the world.
Martial arts and fighting overlap each other, no doubt about it. For me, it is your personal attitude that shows which one you are. You do not have to be mean or disrespectful to be a good martial artist AND fighter. Talking badly and insulting others only shows a bad attitude (and fear?) Honor and respect are extremely important in our facility. We respect our friends, instructors and teammates. We push each other and ourselves and test each other during training to become the best we can be. But there are no egos, disrespect, insults or anything else.
Our clients have different goals. Some want to become a martial artist to defend themselves, other want to get in shape and others want to compete. But we only train martial artists… that are really proficient in what they do, whether it is being prepared for protecting themselves/other or testing themselves in competition. Many martial artists can become fighters but not every fighter can become a martial artist. You will gain a huge amount of knowledge and skills to reach your goal and at the same time, you will gain friends and have fun.
Define Defense focusses on being the best studio in Boulder and offers a modern approach to martial arts, which consist of the most effective and realistic ways in martial arts. But we have also not forgotten about honor and respect. These are values that should never be forgotten. We don't practice traditional martial arts by any means but these values are timeless. We train individuals to better themselves and learn martial arts so they can feel safer, better about themselves or compete. We respect everyone's goals and do everything we can for you to meet those.
Originally, martial arts was developed to increase the chance of survival. Later on, it started to be used as a sport, in competition, as an art form and more. Mostly, the code of honor and respect was central and utterly important for the practitioners. Of course, there are always bad apples and all human advancements are always used for good and bad causes (think about samurais who valued honor vs. ninjas who were spies and mercenaries).
Some of these traditional martial arts styles are still widely practiced but unfortunately are also very outdated. This will be a ongoing discussion but someone practicing Tai Chi, Karate, traditional Judo etc. will learn many techniques that are simply not functional in a real life situation. This does not mean however, they are less worthy as an art form or for personal development. For self defense, these and many more styles are very overrated and sometimes even useless.
On the other side, martial arts has also evolved over the last decades. Think about Mixed Martial Arts. This is the ultimate competition martial arts form and has proven itself over and over again. For self defense reasons, it may also not be 100% effective though (Brazilian Jiu Jitsu will not work with multiple attackers, an MMA fighter will not know how to defend against a knife or gun attack…)
The issue with this progress is that the self defense aspect is often overlooked and the honor and respect are mostly forgotten. The ratings have gotten so important that most fighters talk badly about each other and have very little respect left. There are exceptions, think about Georges St. Pierre, who has very strong values and is also one of the best martial artists and fighters in the world.
Martial arts and fighting overlap each other, no doubt about it. For me, it is your personal attitude that shows which one you are. You do not have to be mean or disrespectful to be a good martial artist AND fighter. Talking badly and insulting others only shows a bad attitude (and fear?) Honor and respect are extremely important in our facility. We respect our friends, instructors and teammates. We push each other and ourselves and test each other during training to become the best we can be. But there are no egos, disrespect, insults or anything else.
Our clients have different goals. Some want to become a martial artist to defend themselves, other want to get in shape and others want to compete. But we only train martial artists… that are really proficient in what they do, whether it is being prepared for protecting themselves/other or testing themselves in competition. Many martial artists can become fighters but not every fighter can become a martial artist. You will gain a huge amount of knowledge and skills to reach your goal and at the same time, you will gain friends and have fun.
Define Defense focusses on being the best studio in Boulder and offers a modern approach to martial arts, which consist of the most effective and realistic ways in martial arts. But we have also not forgotten about honor and respect. These are values that should never be forgotten. We don't practice traditional martial arts by any means but these values are timeless. We train individuals to better themselves and learn martial arts so they can feel safer, better about themselves or compete. We respect everyone's goals and do everything we can for you to meet those.
The Science Behind Training
16/05/11 18:46
Training is a science. Slowly but surely we are starting to understand how the human body works and even though we believe we grasp the functions and processes that take place in our bodies, we have only scratched the surface.
Thankfully for anyone active in the field of sports, there is an extensive knowledge about how the body reacts to training, what and when it does certain actions and how we can improve how we train. After all, for most of us it’s not about training harder but it’s about training smarter.
That is why we at Define Defense have created our own straightforward assessments and follow up logs for our clients (and ourselves). This enables us to keep track of your performance, progress and helps us detect flaws or aspects that may need improvements. As a client, you will get these logs and assessments every 2 months so you can review them yourself and see your progress. You can even hang them on your refrigerator if you want.
Keeping track of your actions this way will help you make better progress as we continuously review, adjust and personalize the logs. One of the main principles in training is that nobody is the same so why treat them the same? Every person will react differently to exercises, training, nutrition or may simply have different goals.
As a trainer, I always try to educate my clients/students about the basic principles of their training. That is why we never do the same workout twice and every change or step is explained. It is important to know what aerobic vs anaerobic means, what the different nutrients are, what creatine phosphate does in your fast twitch muscles etc.
Even if you don’t have much time to train, keep a log when you do. You will understand better how your body reacts and you may become much more motivated to make more time once you see progress on those logs!
Stay tuned as we will be posting several more articles soon, more specifically about the basic principles of training and the science behind them.
Thankfully for anyone active in the field of sports, there is an extensive knowledge about how the body reacts to training, what and when it does certain actions and how we can improve how we train. After all, for most of us it’s not about training harder but it’s about training smarter.
That is why we at Define Defense have created our own straightforward assessments and follow up logs for our clients (and ourselves). This enables us to keep track of your performance, progress and helps us detect flaws or aspects that may need improvements. As a client, you will get these logs and assessments every 2 months so you can review them yourself and see your progress. You can even hang them on your refrigerator if you want.
Keeping track of your actions this way will help you make better progress as we continuously review, adjust and personalize the logs. One of the main principles in training is that nobody is the same so why treat them the same? Every person will react differently to exercises, training, nutrition or may simply have different goals.
As a trainer, I always try to educate my clients/students about the basic principles of their training. That is why we never do the same workout twice and every change or step is explained. It is important to know what aerobic vs anaerobic means, what the different nutrients are, what creatine phosphate does in your fast twitch muscles etc.
Even if you don’t have much time to train, keep a log when you do. You will understand better how your body reacts and you may become much more motivated to make more time once you see progress on those logs!
Stay tuned as we will be posting several more articles soon, more specifically about the basic principles of training and the science behind them.