Women, Girls Try Self Defense

“Safety first.” “Better safe than sorry.” “Play it safe.” We hear these lines all the time, yet what was the last thing you did to make your life a little safer?

Well, yesterday, November 9th, over 150 women and girls showed up to a Self-Defense Workshop, co-sponsored by the 71st Precinct, GYMIES, and the ULY PTA, where they learned to better protect their possessions, their families and themselves.

The Workshop was kicked off with a presentation by the charming Charlie Ryan, Crime Prevention Officer of the 71st Precinct, who explained the easy steps we can take to be a lot safer. He taught how to hold our purses, talk on our cell phones, and prevent our cars from being stolen. The lesson of the night: Be alert, walk in well lit areas, and in Officer Ryan’s words: “Trust your instincts. If you feel uncomfortable, better safe than sorry, call the police.”

If you have any questions about the various community Crime Prevention Programs, or would like to get your phone, bikes or car registered, Officer Ryan can be reached at 718-735-0528.

Officer Ryan was followed by Greg Runfola, Martial Arts Instructor for GYMIES, and his assistants, who gave a demonstration on practical self-defense that can be used in any situation. He showed how to react when being attacked from behind, or with a gun or knife. He also demonstrated the correct way to fall to avoid injury.

Greg also explained the philosophy of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, “the art of self-defense”, which literally means “smooth art”. It teaches that reflexes can be trained – so instead of freezing up in the face of danger, we will be able to think and react properly. For more information on self-defense classes in Crown Heights please contact GYMIES at 347-425-1740.

Living in a big city comes with its risks, but leaving the ULY hall that night, all agreed that we felt a little bit smarter and safer.