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Self-defence training at Palm Court Karate
A Division of Palm Court Karate · Since 1993

Self Defence
Training

Practical, real-world self-protection for every age and ability — taught by traditional Goju-Ryu instructors with over thirty years of experience. From awareness and avoidance to confident, hands-on technique.

30+
Years of experience
12+
Specialised courses
All ages
Teens to elderly
Certified
Certificate on completion
Self-Protection Training

Skills that work
when it matters

Real self-defence is far more than physical technique. Our courses begin with the things that keep you safest of all — awareness, prevention and the confidence to avoid a confrontation before it begins.

When avoidance isn't possible, you'll have practical, proven responses drilled into muscle memory — calibrated to your age, ability and the real threats you face, from street confrontation to anti-hijacking.

Prevention & awareness first

Reading situations, avoiding the fight, and the mental side of staying safe.

Effective physical technique

Simple, high-percentage moves and vital body targets — strength is not a prerequisite.

Tailored to who you are

Age-appropriate, job-specific and scenario-based — from teenagers to medical staff.

The Courses

Find the right course

Standard courses for individuals, specialist programmes for high-risk professions, and dedicated weapons training. Every course concludes with a certificate of completion.

StandardLevels 1–3

Ladies Self Defence

Our flagship programme, taught across three progressive levels — from basic theory and simple moves through to advanced practical application.

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Standard

Male Self Defence

A practical course for men covering awareness, avoidance, and effective physical response to real-world confrontation.

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Standard

Teenage Girls

Age-appropriate content for younger students — building confidence, awareness, and the skills to stay safe.

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Standard

Elderly — Male & Female

Designed for the elderly: less physical, but effective. Practical techniques that work regardless of strength.

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Specialist

Nursing & Medical Staff

Tailored to the unique risks faced by healthcare workers in wards, clinics, and emergency settings.

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Specialist

Paramedics

Self-protection for first responders working in unpredictable, high-pressure environments.

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Specialist

Teachers — Male & Female

Practical personal-safety training for educators, on and off campus.

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Specialist

Security Guards

Job-specific techniques and threat management for those whose work puts them in harm’s way.

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Specialist

Anti-Hijacking & Road Safety

Vehicle-based awareness, prevention, and response — among our most requested courses in South Africa.

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Weapons

Tonfa (Police Baton)

A basic self-defence course built around the police baton — control, blocking, and effective strikes.

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Weapons

Self Defence Stick

Kubotan, Yawara, and telescopic baton — compact, everyday-carry self-defence tools.

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Weapons

The Cane

Turn an ordinary walking cane into a discreet and effective means of self-protection.

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The Curriculum

Three progressive levels

Standard courses build from foundational awareness through to advanced practical application. Start at Level 1, or pick up where your experience leaves off.

Level 1
4 Hours

Foundations

Basic course focusing on theory and simple, effective self-defence moves.

  • Prevention & awareness
  • Mental & physical self-defence
  • Avoiding the fight
  • Vital body spots
  • Anti-hijack safety techniques
Most Popular
Level 2
8 Hours

Comprehensive

Full self-defence training combining prevention with practical application.

  • Preventative measures
  • Awareness & mental self-defence
  • Physical self-defence
  • Practical application
  • Rape prevention
  • Basic anti-hijacking course
Level 3
8 Hours

Advanced

Advanced practical application for experienced practitioners.

  • All Level 2 content
  • Advanced practical application
  • EMS self-defence
Prerequisite: Martial arts experience or a Level 2 certificate.
Talks & Workshops

We come to you

Self-protection and anti-bullying talks delivered on-site for groups and organisations across Johannesburg. Practical, engaging and tailored to your audience.

Schools — Anti-BullyingUniversitiesCompaniesNeighbourhood WatchesResidential Complexes
Book a Talk
Self-defence technique demonstration at Palm Court Karate
PCK Self Defence Training
Personal Training

One-on-one,
at your pace

Prefer private instruction? Every course we offer is available as personal one-on-one training — focused entirely on you, your goals and the situations most relevant to your life. Ideal for building confidence in a private setting, or accelerating your progress.

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Certification

Finish recognised

Every course member receives a certificate on completion — recognised proof of the skills you've earned.

Get Started

Enquire about
a course

Tell us a little about what you're looking for and we'll be in touch with dates, pricing and the right course for you, your group or your organisation.

Weekly Class

Ladies Self-Defence & Fitness Wednesdays, 19:15–20:30. Drop in any week.

083 228 6331info@palmcourtkarate.co.za
27 Janssens Rd, Constantia Kloof, Roodepoort, 1709

Ready to start?

Reach out directly and we'll get you set up with the right course, dates and pricing.

Take the first step

Confidence starts with knowing you can protect yourself and the people you love.

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