Positive Force Offers Free Self-Defense Classes For Women

By Maria Merlino
Who trained with Chuck Norris?
6th Degree Master Joe Pennisi did.
6th Degree Master Hugo Armando said the class teaches women how to identify and prevent dangerous situations. Women will also learn hands-on defense training in the two-month weekly course. The course has foundations in education and awareness that also includes lecture, discussion and self-defense techniques. This course isn’t simply a list of do’s and don’ts. It looks to educate and empower women to be able to make dynamic risk assessments of situations where harmful intent may be present. The program will enable women to defend themselves against common chokes, grabs, bear-hugs and other attacks. Women also learn how to defend themselves in various scenarios including disarming a gun or knife from an attacker and learning how to break the fingers and wrists of the bad guy.

6th DEGREE MASTER Joe Pennisi demonstrates how to break wrist of an attacker with just an adroit move at Positive Force Karate, 1704 Jackson Street. His dojo is offering free women’s self-defense classes for a two month weekly course. Read full story, P. 2. Photo by Maria Merlino

“Many women go into shock when attacked because they have no frame of reference,” said Master Pennisi. “This empowers the perp. It’s why he does it, for power and control. We will give you the skills to build up a mental library, like getting a book on a shelf. Rape and abuse are hateful acts.
In the philosophy of Aikido, strength is redistributed. Women will learn how to manipulate the strength. It’s not about muscle but how to work the joints. We live in wicked times, but taking this course will give you the street surviving skills, and remove any emotion from doing it.”
The course, which normally costs $125 a month, will be held on Monday and Wednesday evenings and every other Saturday. Master Pennisi would like to partner with the community to bring these skills to women who want to the lifesaving tools and experiences in o that will allow them to walk with confidence and know that they have a fighting chance to protect themselves when they need it most.
Positive Force Karate
1704 Jackson St.
Philadelphia, PA 19145
Instructors: Joe Pennisi, 6th Degree Master Black Belt and Hugo Armando, 6th Degree Master Black Belt
Calls will be taken Monday or Wednesday between 4 and 7 p.m. Call (215) 551-1311. to schedule.

   Send article as PDF