WINNIPEG – If you’ve ever been in a situation where you felt unsafe, it could have helped to know self defence.
Shannon Cuciz spent the morning at Academy 64 Self Defence and Fitness studio in St. James to learn more about the empowering martial art.
“With this martial art you gain confidence right away because it’s really hands on and it’s going to prepare you for a real confrontation or situation,” Academy 64 owner Garry Sawatzky said.
WATCH: Garry Sawatzky talks about how self defence can help anyone feel safe
Sawatzky started learning self defence and Brazilian jiu-jitsu in 2002 after he finished playing football for the Toronto Argonauts and opened his own academy in Winnipeg.
“To this day it’s still changing my life and other people’s lives,” Sawatzky said.
PHOTO GALLERY: Self defence on the Morning News
Beginners start with a white belt, then move to a blue belt, purple belt, brown belt and eventually, the goal to be a black belt.
“This kind of thing involves a lot of repetition and a lot of physical contact… it’s an amazing feeling,” Sawatzky said.
WATCH: Brazilian jiu-jitsu instructor Cal Cowieson shares his inspiring story and teaches the choke defence