Toronto Women’s Self Defence

Unleash your Power with practical and proven training

Self-defence is the ultimate form of self-care. Build the strength, skills, and situational awareness to protect the life you love.

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Women learning self-defence

Replace Anxiety with Awareness

Many women live with a low-level background noise of anxiety—checking the backseat, clutching keys in the parking lot, or crossing the street to avoid a shadow. We teach you to replace that hyper-vigilance with situational awareness. You will learn to spot red flags early, trust your intuition, and project the kind of confidence that tells a predator, "Not this one. Not today."

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Two women practicing martial arts in a gym, one holding focus mitts and the other with fists raised in a fighting stance, with other people in the background.

Technique Over Size

The biggest lie women are told is that they are too small to defend themselves. In our North York studio, we deal in physics, not brute force. You will learn leverage-based techniques that allow you to break holds, escape chokeholds, and neutralize larger aggressors. This isn’t about trading punches; it’s about using your body’s natural weaponry to inflict immediate damage and escape safely.

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Women's self-defence class at Bathurst & Sheppard in North York.

Live a Bigger Life

Self-defence isn't just about surviving an attack; it's about what you do with your one precious life. When you know you can handle the worst-case scenario, the world opens up. You stop shrinking yourself to fit into "safe" spaces. You walk, travel, and live with the unapologetic freedom that comes from knowing you are your own best protector.

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Why we do this

I want a world where women are not the default victims. As a 17-year-old, I was assaulted on a crowded TTC bus. I lacked the skills to address it, and I carried that silence for years.

At House of Combat, we are changing that narrative. We don't use fear to sell classes; we use love—love of life, of health, and of the strength that is already inside you. Every woman who trains here becomes a force to be reckoned with.

I want you to believe in yourself. I believe in you.

Avigayil Basser

Co-Owner & Director, House of Combat

Training That Fits Your Life

Safe Environment: Train in a safe and supportive space with other women and girls (Ages 12+).

Expert Instruction: Classes are taught by Joel Gelfand, who has 30+ years of experience empowering women with reality-based skills.

Flexible Schedule: Join our dedicated Women’s Classes on Sundays at 12 pm & Thursdays at 9:30 am or integrate into our co-ed program when you feel ready.

Reviews for women’s self-defence classes

  • Screenshot of a positive Google review about Krav Maga classes at House of Combat, praising the instructors and management for their approachability and comprehensive training.
  • Screenshot of a 5-star Google review by Ellen, praising a Krav Maga self-defense training. Ellen highlights the skilled instructor, Joel, and mentions the class's welcoming environment and diverse experience levels. She also commends the program's organization and communication by Avigayil.
  • A positive 5-star review by Sarah K about learning Krav Maga at the House of Combat. She praises instructors Joel, Avigayil, and Chaim for their welcoming and patient teaching approach, fostering a friendly and clean atmosphere. Sarah mentions gaining confidence despite being new to the training.
  • Google review by Laurie P praising House of Combat, highlighting welcoming atmosphere, valuable skills learned, increased confidence, accommodating instructors, and recommending Krav Maga and BJJ classes.
  • Screenshot of a 5-star review for HOC Krav Maga. The reviewer praises the knowledgeable and patient instructor, Joel, and mentions a warm, friendly class environment with strong community vibes. Highlights include small class sizes, flexible memberships, and helpful staff. The reviewer recommends it highly.

Frequently asked questions

  • We also offer a full schedule of co-ed self-defence classes. We are proud to say that many women feel comfortable attending these so there are always female training partners you can work with.

  • Our women’s specialty classes are for girls and women ages 12+

  • Yes! Our women’s self-defence classes are beginner-friendly.

  • Women’s Krav Maga classes are taught Joel - our founder and head instructor. Joel is mindful and experienced and has been teaching girls and women how to protect themselves for over 30 years.

“Self-defense is not just a set of techniques; it’s a state of mind, and it begins with the belief that you are worth defending.”

— Rorion Gracie