Colfax church offers self-defense class

A self-defense class in a style popularized by the Israeli military will be taught April 27 at the First Baptist Church in Colfax with a class for men and women each.

“I’m excited. I think it will be fun,” said Tammy Lewis, co-coordinator for the event with Kristina Willson.

According to Lewis, the church always tries to host a spring event for the women of the congregation. This year they decided to do something different and bring in an instructor for a self-defense class. As it was discussed, the idea drew more attention with men also expressing interest. The decision was made to open the event up to the public.

“Safety is always something, I think, everyone is worried about,” Lewis noted.

The classes will be taught by the Krav Maga gym from Spokane. Krav Maga is a “form of self-defense popularized by the Israeli military that uses instinctual movements and reactions to deliver brutally efficient attacks and counterattacks designed to incapacitate your opponent as quickly and efficiently as possible,” according to the gym’s web site.

The curriculum is built to fit every life style and fitness level, but the physical is only half of it. The first hour of the class is lecture on topics including situational awareness, detecting threats and taking a mental approach to safety.

The second hour is hands-on training, but those uncomfortable with that portion are welcome to watch and learn.

Lewis said if there is enough interest, an additional class may be added. Pre-registration is required. Class size is 10 to 25 people.

Classes will be April 27 at the First Baptist Church gym in Colfax. Women’s session is 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. and men’s session is 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Minimum age is 11 years old. Cost is $50 per person.

To pre-register, email [email protected].