Knife Defence Training in Melbourne

We've taught knife defence in Melbourne for over 20 years as a natural extension of Japanese Jiu Jitsu. Teens and adults train in it regularly, because you can't take self defence seriously in Melbourne without it.

It's the reason I started. I was threatened with a knife when I was 20 years old, and that's when I began training in jiu jitsu.

Real life

Over the years, students have told us about using this training in real situations. One woke to find a burglar in his home with a machete, and controlled him using a choke and holds learned at our school until police arrived. In his words: "You don't think you'll ever need it until you need it."

We never suggest taking on a knife if you can get away. Escaping is always the first choice, and carrying a knife for your own protection only makes things worse. If someone pulls out a knife and demands your wallet, hand it over. Nothing you own is worth dying for.

What we cover

• Protecting your neck
• Slash and stab defences
• Evasive footwork for escaping
• Grab and stab defences, where someone grabs your shirt and then tries to stab you
• Knife defence under pressure

We train with wooden training weapons. Teens learn age-appropriate versions in Junior Adults, and adults learn in Japanese Jiu Jitsu.

Common questions

Is knife defence included in normal classes?

Yes. Teens and adults train in it as part of their regular programme, with dedicated periods each year.

Is it safe to train?

Yes. We use training knives, and we build up techniques gradually before any pressure testing.