Background to DSD

Dynamic Self Defence was founded by a group of dedicated instructors who had a common goal of taking the best martial art and self defence techniques and combining them into a comprehensive self-development program.

The program provides not only practical and powerful self defence techniques, but delivers it in a manner to improve cardiovascular and muscular conditioning as well as developing mental awareness, self-esteem, discipline and confidence.

The name Dynamic Self Defence was chosen after much debate, deliberately choosing a non-oriental name. Although we may incorporate techniques from the orient or elsewhere, we want to be seen as a multicultural organisation as we live and work in the United Kingdom, a multicultural society. We also believed that if possible a name should say what it is.

Kinaesthetic or movement learning is the basis of our teaching methodology. Just as with auditory and visual learning each individual learns at different rates and skill levels. Co-ordination and body awareness also varies greatly amongst individuals. The Dynamic Self Defence system recognises that for a student to get the most benefit and be able to perform techniques successfully, the use of consistent imagery and keywords is paramount.

To this end we have developed a comprehensive teaching program that ensures consistent and high quality teaching in all our association schools. Instructors encourage positive feedback both from instructor to student and between students, all adding to enhance the learning experience.

Many traditional styles of martial art and self-defence systems often teach "interesting" but impractical techniques whereas Dynamic Self Defence teaches practical and powerful self-defence techniques that are natural and fluid. Dynamic stances are used that allow mobility in self-defence situations and the ability to put ones body weight into a punch, strike or kick and hence generate more stopping power. Economy of motion by having the hands up in a defence posture and by using single continuous movements instead of separate stop - start techniques. Continuous motion allows the momentum of one movement to assist in the performance of the next. It also ensures a good aerobic workout unlike some forms of traditional stop-go type of training.

All movements involve large rhythmic movements developing better co-ordination and correct habits for practical self-defence. All movements are designed to be bio-mechanically correct in terms of power, efficiency and minimising the risk of injury. All movements and techniques feel natural, are easy to learn and remember. To develop automatic self-defence responses, the movements are practised under gradually more realistic conditions. This develops student confidence as they develop practical conditioned responses.

As of September 2006, The Modern Defense Association of America joined forces with Dynamic Self Defence and together formed a joint collaboration - welcome to Dynamic Self Defence International - the future of modern self defence.