Self-defence for teenagers in Szczecin: what happens at a first workshop?
Parents often book a class because they want a teenager to feel more capable on the journey home. The teenager may be wondering how they will look in front of the group. A good first session addresses both concerns. Our Szczecin youth workshops are for ages 12–17, with activities adapted to the group’s experience.
Start with a decision
Imagine several people at a bus stop trying to persuade a participant to follow them elsewhere. The group considers when conversation turns into pressure, who else is nearby and which short phrase could help end the encounter. Two teenagers might choose different words and both complete the exercise well. During the debrief we look at whether they noticed an opportunity to leave.
Practise at an agreed pace
Partners agree on a pace and a signal to end the exercise. One starts the conversation while the other replies and moves away. They then swap roles. On a second attempt, participants can see whether moving while speaking makes the words easier to use. Watching and discussing a scenario is another way to take part.
Questions parents can ask before booking
Ask about the age range, pairing participants and the signal for stopping an exercise. Teenagers differ in development, experience and comfort with physical contact. The instructor should explain the purpose before asking them to try a task. Young people need to know they can raise discomfort without being mocked.
Afterwards, ask what they remember rather than testing their reactions by surprise. Useful questions concern getting help, noticing an exit and communicating boundaries. Training can start a conversation about safety, but it does not replace adult action on bullying. An ongoing problem also needs contact with the school and support suited to the situation.
What to discuss before booking
When enquiring, include the young person’s age, previous experience and whether a quieter group might suit them. After class, try asking which words or actions they would like to practise again. This opens a more useful conversation than asking whether they could defend themselves in every situation.
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