Tracy

When I started taking Fitness classes at ASD, I was 28, a size 10 and weighed 155 pounds. After six months, I lost 25 pounds and could fit into a size 4. Now at 30 years old, I am in better shape than ever. I had tried the gym, running, and dieting. Thanks to ASD I have finally found something that motivates me to get the exercise I need.

Marcie

I am 30 years old and I have 2 children. I was having a really hard time losing weight after having my second child. Since joining ASD, I’ve finally found something that not only works but also is fun and has given me the results that I wanted. I’ve lost over 30 lbs in 5 ½ months without even changing my diet. I started out weighing 163 lbs and now I’m down to 131 lbs and I’ve gone down 3 dress sizes. I am so thankful that I found ASD because it has helped me achieve my fitness goals and most importantly given me the confidence and knowledge to defend myself if ever in that situation.

Rachel

After the birth of my second child, I was having difficulty losing the 70 pounds I had gained during my pregnancy. As a New Year’s Resolution, I attended my first ASD class in February of 2004. I was hooked! Over the next few months, I lost inches and fat, and looked noticeably better in my clothes. Attending Austin Self Defense classes three times a week has become a habit for me. As a result, I feel stronger and more equipped to defend myself in an attack. In addition, ASD is also a great outlet for me as an individual. I find that I cope with life’s daily stressors more effectively when I am exercising regularly!

Jeremy M

I have been attending the Austin Self Defense Mixed Martial Arts and Haganah Training programs for a year now. Before this I had various stints of combative training that utilized different disciplines. The training I have recieved through Austin Self Defense has been the best overall. My skills, stamina, and confidence has excelled far beyond what I could have ever predicited. Besides the ability to overcome and neutralize a threat, my fitness level has increased tremendously. Before I was a very traditional workout person. Now I see the benefits of a total body regimen. Austin Self Defense programs incorporate drills that challenge strength, flexibility, and endurance.

The instructors are great. They are very patient and helpful in tuning a persons performance. The support the instructors give is tremendous. They have all been very respectful to each person as an individual. No one is made to feel ridiculed or less of a student. I have been working in law enforcement as a police officer for 6 years. The training I recieve is definitely applicable to the law enforcement field. My ability to utilize the physical application of force has increased greatly. I have taken what I have learned and trained others.

Not only does a member recieve training but a news letter that is very informative on topics of nutrition, injuries, and combative skills. I have and will continue to recommend Austin Self Defense as a place to train.

Jeremy M

Laura

I really enjoyed yesterday's class. I expected the class to be tough and it well surpassed my expectation! Partnering with Charlie was good, he was sensitive to me being new, but not too much. The few folks I met were friendly as well. You and Andrea did a fine job of making me feel welcome and informing me of the art. Your experience shows well in your teaching.

Laura

Jim

I was extremely impressed at such a rigorous workout. With such an eclectic group of students, I expected the class to be a little less physical to cater to the older gentlemen, and some of the younger students, but I was pleased to note that the same level of physical stamina was required for all.

The lesson of the day, and the previous lesson of the day were taught perfectly. There was enough breakdown for a new student to grasp each piece, but it moved swiftly along, allowing the current students to practice. The scenario was extremely important in bringing the self defense technique into the students association (i.e. students can associate the need for it in a nightclub, bar, or even tight quarters, like an airplane). This was handled perfectly. The continuous break for exercise was key to keeping the "combat attitude", as most warriors will tell you about the endorphin/adrenaline rush during an actual confrontation, and exercising constantly helped to simulate this.

The many bag drills were well done, and the presentation of "If you don't have wraps or gloves, then go bare fisted to condition your hands" was appreciated. I've been known to use bag gloves about 10% of the time, preferring to work the bag bare-handed for the same reason.

All in all, I was impressed by the familiarity shown by both instructors, Dan and Andrea worked well together which reflected well to the rest of the class. While most students can't/shouldn't use the force shown by both instructors, it was important to note how much force COULD be generated when practicing certain techniques.

Thank you, Jim

Ryan

I found just what I was looking for at ASD, with Haganah. Mr. Kiser had told me since I first began attending class, that efforts were in motion to bring other courses of study to the facility. And his perseverance has paid off, as I am now able to attend Boxing, Krav Maga, and Submission Wrestling -- all in one place.

Since starting class, I have dropped 75 lbs., my energy is through the roof, and I feel that "fighting shape" is just around the corner! I was an assistant Combatives Instructor for my unit, in the military, and the Haganah course has allowed me to pick up, right where I left off. The way the classes are structured and conducted ensure that my form, technique, and muscle memory are thorough... and hopefully effective. The way in which I carry myself has undoubtedly changed for the better, or so I am told.
I am now able to attend Boxing, Krav Maga, and Submission Wrestling -- all in one place. Haganah, and Austin Self Defense are definitely keeping me Army Strong! Hooah!

Jean

I'm a 48 year old wife and working mother who started the Core Combatives classes at Austin Self Defense a little over a year ago with my 16-year old daughter.

My goals were two-fold:  to get in better shape physically and to ensure that my daughter had self-defense skills before starting college. What I didn’t realize was what I would learn about my endurance and my self-esteem.  I am physically stronger, more agile, better prepared and more self-confident. In addition, I’ve watched my daughter gain strength and skills that I hope as a mother that she will never have to use. I can say that working with Dan and Jeanette has been wonderful. They are both patient and attentive and always maintain a warm and friendly atmosphere.

I’ve never felt ‘out of place’ working there because there are people of all ages and physical abilities with goals similar to mine. My workouts never fail to improve my attitude, to reduce stress and to feel stronger.