Self-Defence Training Testimonials

This self defence class is a must for every woman. It is hard work but so empowering to learn how to use your bodies mechanics instead of strength (that you may not have) to get yourself out of tricky situations. Definitely a must! Charlie is an excellent trainer. Loved it and feel so empowered from what I learnt.

Amy May Thompson

I've done a few of these workshops now and I always learn something new, or review something that I thought I knew, but find I didn't know that well at all. It's tough but well worth it. While you don't have to be a fit, a reasonable level of fitness is a help, as is the right mental attitude. Self defence is not pretty but then again, neither is violence and aggression, so give yourself the best chance of surviving by taking part in these workshops. Charlie is a great instructor, and paces the class well, making the instruction relevant, and sometimes scarily realistic.

Dawn Grant

Hi Charlie! Thanks ever so much for a fantastic day! It was marvellous as well as a heap of fun. Very much appreciated your time. Also your enthusiasm, style and humour was a delight!!! Really appreciated your dedication and enthusiasm!

Lynette Yeoman

Charlie and Ash came to teach self defence to Orewa Girl Guides and Rangers. The girls loved it and learnt so much! Charlie is very knowledgeable and approachable. We will definitely be in touch to arrange another workshop in the near future. Thanks Charlie and Ash for making it informative and, just as important, fun! Highly recommend.

Clare Grimwood, Orewa Girl Guides

It’s a tough two day course but it was well worth it. Was disappointing that hardly anyone turned up for the second day as that was the best part, and extremely important as it was rape prevention. I highly recommend the workshop and definitely going to continue with the training. I feel a lot more confident and empowered having done it.

Bridget Du Burgess

Hi Chae, Just wanted to say a huge thank you for the course you ran at my studio. I have had really positive feedback. Although the participants found it very confronting, intimidating, scary and physically tough, they found it enormously beneficial and are all so glad they did it. Having such positive feedback reflects so much on the instructor, and I appreciate your time, energy and patience.

Jenny Tulloch, Pulse Personal Training

All I can say is this has to be one of the most realistic, educational, practical and entertaining experiences I've had in along time. For the seriousness of the subject matter Charlie certainly knows how to make sure everyone learns the syllabus, and he doesn't leave anyone behind with his teaching. I teach professional business workshops and I have to say I wish I had the teaching skills that Charlie does. Please do not stop what your doing Charlie!!!

Angela Templar

I feel empowered after this course, armed with confidence and knowledge. Some of what we learnt was gruelling at times but completely necessary and I’m so grateful to SAFE for providing this initiative for the community. Charlie was an incredible instructor, straight to the point and authentic in his delivery, reminding us constantly of the reality of what we are dealing with and why we need to make the most of the time and knowledge that is being shared. Thank you for providing us with this opportunity, I will be doing the course again some time and encouraging all women in my community to attend also.

Ninakaye Taanetinorau

Inspirational, intense and inspiring that's all I can say about this workshop. DO IT !!!

Elaine McPhee

I did the free course in Hamilton today and learnt some very useful skills. The techniques are broken down and Charlie is a great teacher explaining and stepping you through the process. Wear comfortable (gym) gear that you're not too precious about, bring the right attitude to both defend and attack and be prepared to be me totally and physically drained. You won't regret it.

Amy Sparks

I took Charlie's one-day women's defense class. As everyone else has been saying: expect to get tired and bruised and maybe even your shirt ripped up but what you get out of the class is worth that sacrifice. I hope to never have to use any of the techniques that we went over, but I also feel that if I do find myself in a bad situation, I have many different tools to help me get out of it and survive. Some things of note: Bring water! Bring something to eat during lunch break Be mentally ready to have a really hard day (as well as be sore for the next several days)

Bethany Weeks

All I can say is DO IT, it is worth every bit of sweat and aching muscle. I just can't believe that Charlie provides these workshops free of charge. I've attended numerous self defence workshops in the past and this one has to be the best by far. Thanks Charlie and hopefully some day some organisation will fund these workshops.

Tania Phillips