Self-Defense Classes in Newark and Heath, Ohio

Self-Defense · Newark and Heath

Most people looking for self-defense classes in Newark aren't looking for a hobby. They want to know that if something goes wrong, they won't freeze. That's a fair thing to want, and it's worth being honest about what actually gets you there.

What self-defense training should give you

A good self-defense class should leave you with three things: skills that work on a resisting person, the calm to use them under pressure, and enough fitness to last more than a few seconds. Techniques you only ever practise on a partner who lets you win don't build any of those.

That's why we teach self-defense through jiu jitsu. Every technique gets tested against someone who is actually trying to stop you. You find out what works, you find out what doesn't, and you get used to being uncomfortable without panicking.

Why jiu jitsu works when it matters

Real confrontations rarely look like movies. They're short, messy, and they often end up on the ground. Jiu jitsu is built for exactly that: getting back to your feet, controlling someone bigger without trading punches, and getting out of a bad position when you're stuck underneath.

It's also built for people who aren't the biggest person in the room. Leverage, position and timing do the work instead of size and strength. That's why it's one of the best options for anyone worried about being outsized.

• Escapes first. How to get out from under someone and back to your feet.
• Control without striking. Holding a position so the other person can't hurt you.
• Live practice. Controlled sparring, so the skills hold up when someone resists.
• Conditioning that comes with it. You'll get fitter without signing up for a separate workout.

Is it right for women and beginners?

Yes. Most people start with no experience at all, and self-defense is one of the most common reasons people walk in. Nobody gets thrown in with the advanced crowd on day one. Your first class is built around learning the basics with a partner who knows how to help you, and you set the pace.

You don't need to be in shape before you start. Training is how you get in shape. Wear athletic clothes with no zippers or pockets and bring water. That's it.

Who teaches it

Head coach Jon Borrows has run 10th Planet Newark since 2015. Eddie Bravo promoted him to black belt in 2022, making him the only Eddie Bravo black belt in Ohio. He's SafeSport certified and on the mat for classes every week.

When you can train

Adult classes run mornings and evenings so you can fit it around work:

• Evenings: Monday to Thursday, 6:45 PM
• Mornings: Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 5:30 AM; Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday at 10:00 AM
• Saturday boxing: 8:30 AM with Coach Artie Douglas, if you want striking too

Membership is month to month at $125, with no long contract. Full details are on the membership page, and every class is on the schedule. You can read more about the adult program on our adult jiu jitsu page.

Questions people ask first

Will I get hurt? Training is supervised and partners are matched sensibly. New students start with technique and controlled drilling, not hard sparring.

Do I need to be strong? No. Jiu jitsu is designed around leverage so smaller people can win. Strength comes with time.

How long until I can defend myself? You'll leave your first class with something useful. Real confidence usually comes after a few months of steady training, two or three times a week.

10th Planet Jiu Jitsu Newark, 409 S 22nd St, Suite 6, Heath, OH 43056. Call or text (740) 520-0112.