Sensei Shadow and Sensei Carl Teach Self-defense Course Near Trinity United Church of Christ

There were kicks, punches, arm twists, arm blocks and pulled hair in the atrium of Trinity United Church of Christ (TUCC), 421 W. 95th St. But it was all voluntary and with smiles as women learned self-defense techniques from instructors Sensei Shadow (Steven E. Marshall) and Sensei Carl.

Approximately 50 women and girls of various ages showed up at 6:30 p.m., on Fri., May 21, to learn how to protech themselves. After doing a little cardio in the beginning of the workout, they went on to learn how to defend themselves from attackers behind them, in front of them and at night when their vision may be impaired.

The first goal was to "remain calm, don't panic." The second goal was to focus on the end plan, "I'm going home."

Then, that's when the self-defense techniques came into play. A handful of men and plenty of padding were used to practice each lesson during the free, two-hour class.

After several techniques were practiced in one large circle, groups were split into two so each instructor could give more hands-on work. Sensei Carl taught tricks about how to use a kubotan, which can be purchased in martial arts stores in Chinatown, and keys to protect oneself from attackers, in addition to body techniques. Women also shared incidents that personally happened with them or friends to find out what specifically to do when instances like this occur (ex. arms yanked in clubs, purses snatched, home invasion, robberies and ponytail pulls).

Both instructors teach regular classes at Robichaux Park, next door to TUCC, on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. for $25 per month. Private classes are available upon request. Those who are interested do not have to sign up ahead of time. They can register on site for the self-defense courses.

Additional Notes: This entry was originally published by the Chicago News & Events Examiner.