TY Self-Defence Workshop

Self-Defence Workshop

By Megan Broughill, TY

The TYs in Athboy Community School had two groups taking part in a self-defence course on Monday 23rd of March. 

The instructors, Liam and Thomas, explained that the term ‘Martial Arts’ actually comes from the word “marshal,” meaning military training, which helped us understand that these techniques were originally designed for real-life situations and survival, not just sport or competition.

During the workshop, we were asked important questions like how many people were attacked in the Republic of Ireland and what our personal game plan would be if we were ever attacked. These questions made everyone stop and think seriously about their own safety and awareness. 

We were taught how to avoid getting hurt if attacked, with running away being the number one and most important option. The instructors strongly emphasised that self–defence is about staying safe, not about fighting or trying to win. Avoiding danger and escaping safely should always come first.

The message was that if you aren’t prepared, you don’t know how to give it your all or react properly under pressure. Practising skills like Muay Thai, Karate, or Boxing is going to help a lot, and you can defend yourself much better if you’ve trained before or maintained your training.

We also practised some basic techniques, such as standing with one leg in front, turning your hips when punching, and using your whole body instead of just your arms. We also learned how to protect ourselves in bad situations that you can’t run from.

Overall, the TYs had a great day. It was one of the most important lessons they have learned from their workshops so far, focussing as it did on real-life situations and personal safety. It was also extremely entertaining and engaging, with everyone involved learning new skills.