Log In

Share This Page

Geolocating...

Dodge that blow with Sociably!

Dodge that blow with Sociably!

Dodge that blow with Sociably!

Hi Lowvelders, 

It’s Christelle here, and I have a question for you.

Have you ever come face to face with a “bad guy”? If you have, then chances are that you are living with more fear than the average person. But this does not have to be your fate. Sociably recently received an invitation to join a Krav Maga class with local trainer Nicole Hemphill. Having experienced an attack in the past, I was eager to better my self-defense skills and jumped (literally) at this opportunity.

Now, I know joining a self-defense class is not your normal date-night option, but hey, it’s a leap year. And why not headlock the month of love with a literal headlock, right? I made the executive decision to drag my Sociably spouse along because what’s more romantic than learning how to elbow someone in the face together?

During a break-in at my house back in 2009, I was lucky. I had my husband by my side fighting fiercely to protect me. But this is sadly not the case for the majority of people falling victim to violence. I strongly feel that each person should have a basic knowledge of self-defense techniques. Krav Maga emphasizes using everyday objects (think knives, pens, wooden spoons…) for defense, rather than specialized weapons. It further focuses on practicality and real-world scenarios, not conventional movements. By learning basic Krav Maga techniques you can drastically improve your survival chances, should you ever cross paths with an attacker.

I approached the class with the full intention of mastering the art of self-defense, but if I’m honest, part of me also just wanted an excuse to yell “HIYA!” and feel like a total badass. And trust me, I achieved that goal and then some. Nicole presented herself like a real sensei straight out of an action movie! She knew exactly how to unleash our inner warriors, and let’s just say, sweat became our new best friend. She pushed us, but it was more like she was cheering us on from the sidelines of our own personal fight club. As I fought off and blocked attacks from imaginary bad guys, I couldn’t help but have a blast. There’s something oddly satisfying about unleashing pure power in a controlled environment – it’s like adult recess with a purpose. 

During this unconventional “date night”, we learned how to block punches, escape holds, and I was even taken down as an attacker (see video on Instagram and facebook). My Sociably spouse and I laughed, we sweated, and we definitely high-fived our way through drills, discovering a new level of teamwork and respect for each other. It wasn’t just about physical strength; it was about mental fortitude and the knowledge that we could face any challenge, together.

I would absolutely recommend this class to all of our local ladies, gents, grannies and grandpas. Even the kids too! It is not only a great way to stay in shape but could potentially save your life too.

If you would like to know more about Krav Maga classes with Nicole, please reach out to her on 0793229581 or view her facebook page here: https://m.facebook.com/people/Krav-Maga-Nelspruit/100063707783062/ 

We love kicking butt in the Lowveld ♥ 

Ps. If you know of any fun and interesting things the Sociably could do in and around the Lowveld, please get in touch! We would love to explore and write all about it.