Self-defense and taekwondo classes at Madison Senior Center

Starting in June, Madison Senior Center members can enroll in two new classes to strengthen body and mind: self-defense and taekwondo.

On Mondays, members can participate in the “Senior Self-Defense” sessions. The class will run from 9 to 9:45 a.m.

“Members can learn practical safety techniques, situational awareness and quick moves to keep you safe and confident,” Rachael Burrus, Program Coordinator at the center, said.

“This is the first time that the center has offered martial arts classes to its members. The center has added self-defense and taekwondo to its upcoming schedule, a decision prompted by numerous requests from seniors seeking personal safety training after the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie (mother of “Today” co-anchor, Savannah Guthrie),” Burrus said.

Participants do not need a doctor’s release. Currently, these classes are open only to center members.

“When we think of self-defense, we often picture physical altercations. But for older adults, a great self-defense program is as much about awareness, physical confidence and everyday safety as it is about handling an unexpected threat,” Burrus said.

“Self-defense classes for seniors aren’t about matching an attacker’s brute strength; classes focus on leverage, balance and using a person’s natural center of gravity,” Burrus said.

For the other class, taekwondo students meet on Mondays from 10 to 10:45 a.m. “Taekwondo is great for core strength, flexibility, mental focus and coordination,” Burrus said. “Working with a professional instructor, you’ll get expert guidance, personalized attention and a safe environment tailored specifically to your fitness level.”

Class instructor is Mary Smith, who started training 47 years ago and has been teaching classes for 45 years. She earned a 7th-Degree Black Belt and is a Certified Grandmaster Instructor.

Participants will learn the proper way to block, counterattack, use several hand and foot techniques — even break boards.

A senior self-defense class focuses on a simple tier of safety:

• Avoid the threat through awareness.
• De-escalate or escape using positioning and voice.
• Defend efficiently using leverage, if absolutely necessary.

“Our classes are created to build self-confidence and awareness. The goal is for everyone to feel completely safe and secure when out in public,” Burrus said. “If these sessions achieve that, the center considers the program a true success.”

Self-defense and taekwondo each cost $40 per month. Pre-registration is required with the center’s dual systems; a participant must register on both sites:

• MyActiveCenter — Visit myactivecenter.com to log attendance.
• WebTrac – Visit almadisonweb.myvscloud.com/webtrac/web/splash.html. Type “Self-Defense” or “Taekwondo” in the search bar. A participant can pay directly online with WebTrac, or pay in person at Madison Community Center’s reception desk.

“Investing in your safety and health has never been easier or more rewarding,” Burrus said. “Spaces are limited to ensure quality instruction, so sign up today.”

For more information, call 256-461-1638, or email rachael.burrus@madisonal.gov.