Self-Defence Classes in Leeds

Build practical, pressure-tested skills in a friendly setting. Our self-defence classes in Leeds focus on awareness, de-escalation and simple techniques that work under stress. Beginners are genuinely welcome—start with foundations and progress at your own pace.

a male training self defence
  • When: Tuesdays 19:00–21:00
  • Where: Kirkstall Leisure Centre, Kirkstall Ln, Leeds LS5 3BE
  • Parking: Free on-site parking
  • Arrival: Please arrive 30 minutes early for your first class
  • Bring: Gym kit and water; we supply pads initially
Enhance your

Self-Defence Classes in Leeds: what you’ll learn

You’ll learn how to avoid risky situations, set clear verbal boundaries and create space if someone grabs, shoves or crowds you. Training mixes movement, striking, basic grappling escapes and scenario drills—always with safety first. Sessions are structured so complete beginners can join any week, while experienced students get progressions that challenge them appropriately.

Highlights

  • Practical skills: awareness → de-escalation → escape

  • Fundamentals you can recall under pressure

  • Coaching that’s supportive, not macho

  • Clear beginner progressions and partner work

We keep things realistic without being reckless. You’ll practise against common problems (wrist/coat grabs, pushes, clinch pressure) and learn simple ways to break posture, create distance and exit—exactly what most people need from self-defence classes in Leeds.

Timetable & venue — Leeds

    • Tuesdays: 19:00–21:00 (Foundations and mixed-level sections)

    • Venue: Kirkstall Leisure Centre, Kirkstall Ln, Leeds LS5 3BE

    • Parking: Free on-site parking (arrive early on first visit)

    • First visit: Please arrive 30 minutes early to check in, meet your coach and cover safety basics.

    Travelling by public transport? Kirkstall is well served by local buses and the A65 corridor. Aim to arrive a little before the hour so you’re warmed up and ready.

Who it’s for

Adults (16+) of all fitness levels. If you’re new, you’ll start with foundations; if you’ve trained before, your coach will place you at the right level. Our goal is confident, competent movement—not flashy tricks.

FAQ — Leeds self-defence classes

  1. I’m a complete beginner—can I start?
    Yes. We designed this class so newcomers can join any week and learn safely.
  2. Do I need equipment?
    Just gym kit and water. We provide pads/gloves initially and advise on affordable kit if you continue.
  3. Is there parking and public transport nearby?
    Yes—free on-site parking at Kirkstall Leisure Centre. For your first class, arrive 30 minutes early for check-in and orientation. Local buses serve the A65 corridor.
  4. What happens in a trial class?
    You’ll do a short warm-up, learn core movements and try simple partner drills. No prior experience needed.

Book a trial

Test the waters with a short, beginner-friendly session. Meet the coach, see the venue and decide if our approach fits your goals.

Book a Trial

What Our Leeds Students Say

Victoria
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Self Defence Academy is a fantastic place to learn valuable self defence skills and build self-confidence with a great group of people. The instructors really care about teaching and helping everyone improve regardless of their starting ability or fitness level. Lots of fun and highly recommend!
Karl
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3 months into my training and its going great! The instructors and admin are very dedicated, friendly and supportive, you feel the sense of community. Training is structured and well thought out. I'm looking forward to continuing.
Andreea
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It's an amazing place to develop your skills in self defence and awareness even if you start basically from scratch. The class is well led by professional instructors in a friendly environment and I'm proud to say that I'm part of this class.
Hannah
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So glad there is finally a professional Krav Maga Self Defence Class in Harrogate. Spartans Academy provide fun and friendly classes instructed by expert coaches and teach the most up-to-date, usable, self defence there is.
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