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Self-Defence Training Testimonials

Read feedback from people and organisations who have attended MINDSET self-defence workshops, Adelaide classes and one-to-one training. Experiences include women’s workshops, community groups, education providers and workplace teams. Testimonials retain their original locations and historical context.

Featured experiences

Sarah was an excellent instructor. She was well spoken and clear. In all fairness I commend her even more for putting up with our group. What appealed more to me personally was seeing how much energy she could put out – which gave myself the confidence ‘if she can do it I can do it’. The class was fun, I learnt a lot. I also love how she laughed along side our group. Sara didn’t sugar coat situation; she was very direct. The way she also included herself in some of our activities was also great as it added that extra element of surprise for the people she joined in with. Would highly recommend her to any groups and would love for her to come back to teach us more.

Lilli Vea, Graeme Dingle Foundation

I work for a not-for-profit and assist persons who are marginalised in our society because of their sexuality, immigration status, or both. Finding a trainer that would welcome us and treat everyone with respect was my priority, and Charlie did not let us down. He was friendly, respectful, and we all felt comfortable to learn from him. The workshop was highly informative and dynamic, and every participant were excited about what they learned from him.

Lucas Lopes Rodrigues, BiCultural Peer Worker, STTARS (Survivors of Torture and Trauma Assistance and Rehabilitation Service - Adelaide)

I just completed a two day course with Sarah, Carrie and Mandy. They were so welcoming, non judgemental and cater to every ability and confidence levels in the class. What they taught was eye opening, using common real life scenarios that could happen and what you can do to get out of them. They do not sugar coat things either, be prepared to get physical and mentally challenged - this is great for practising for real life scenario. I thoroughly enjoyed myself and I will definitely be back! It was a challenging fun two days. Thank you guys!

Meizi Ho

More participant experiences

Testimonials describe participants’ experiences at the time. Current training arrangements, availability and pricing may differ.

Thanks for the comprehensive and engaging course - thoroughly enjoyed the valuable skills and hands-on experience, as well as meeting other ladies in a comfortable setting. Awesome experience. Highly recommended.

Julie Tse

My daughter and I attended the free course that was at Waterlea Primary (via Mangere Bridge Community) over the weekend – IT WAS AMAZING and Sarah (I presume it was the same Sarah 😊) and her colleague (sorry forgot her name!) were INCREDIBLE! My 13yo was a little reluctant to attend however she really enjoyed it and was keen to attend the second session! We found it so informative and enjoyable.

Monique

I gained a new understanding of how to project confidence and, more importantly, how to activate my innate protective instincts. Please do not stop teaching these workshops, they are so invaluable.

Carol Redcliff (Adelaide)

The instructor Charlie was brilliant – knowledgeable, supportive, and created such a safe and empowering space for learning. We asked if he could come back and teach us more.

Olivia Smith (Adelaide)

Thank you Sarah and Carrie for your self-defence teachings. Although I attended the workshop with my daughter who is about to start University, I found the learnings really valuable for me too. So many great tips and learnings we simply did not know. And the respectful way of your teaching was really appreciated. I think every woman should attend your workshop! Thanks,

Sheree and Tayla

I recently had the pleasure of hosting Charlie Riley from MINDSET Self-Defence for a short self-defence course at my home. Charlie's expertise and engaging teaching style made the session both informative and enjoyable. He provided practical techniques that were easy to understand and implement, ensuring that I felt more confident and prepared. I highly recommend Charlie and MINDSET Self-Defence for anyone looking to enhance their personal safety skills.

Richard Marsland (Adelaide Hills)

I've not long finished a 4-week crash course on self-protection with Charlie from MINDSET at the Croydon Park Gym. Charlie's expertise, dedication and passion were evident throughout the 4-weeks. He provided me with some awseome techniques that were easy enough to learn and apply. His teaching style and personalized approach made the sessions both informative and enjoyable. Charlie wanted to teach me so much in the short time I was learning. I highly recommend Charlie for anyone looking for this type of coaching. Also what he charges is nowhere what he should be charging for his expertise.

Phillip Dunstan (Adelaide)

I had a great time at the 2-day workshop, Sarah and the team are super skilled, and took us through a range of scenarios with tonnes of care, sensitivity & confidence. Our workshop group included women from teens through to 60+ and it was lovely to be building our skills together. Self defence is a tough topic, this workshop will help you to have some positive experiences through being able to practice hands-on techniques in a supportive environment.

Rebecca

(review of 2 day self defense workshop) Sarah and Carrie were amazing instructors and the day flew buy. I realised I had no tools in the toolbox if escalation or escape are not an option. great practical sessions lots of laughter and repetition to help understand the movements...definately recommend and I intend to do some more classes... thank you

Trudy Gavin

I attended the weekend workshop with instructor Sarah + Carrie and many others eager to learn! Don't be fooled with the low price! The quality of the workshop is top notch, jam packed and easily digestible with how cleverly the program is set up. The instructors are encouraging and provide a safe space for all involved which helps greatly. There's excellent teaching (easy to understand concepts) and skills (effective hand ons simulations and practice) all women should know for their safety and empowerment.Highly highly recommend! 💙💙💙

Ava Aguirre

Perfect! Has the ability to deconstruct instructions at any level

Lee, private lessons (Adelaide)

Charlie Riley of MINDSET is an exceptional instructor. His one-on-one lessons were tailored to my needs, his expertise and patience was evident from the start, making the learning process enjoyable and effective. I highly recommend Charlie Riley for anyone interested in self-defence training.

Craig McCulloch (Adelaide)

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