Tauranga Martial Arts Academy instructor Christine Young is looking forward to sharing self-defence moves with women for free as part of International Women's Day. Photo / George Novak
Tauranga Martial Arts Academy instructor Christine Young is looking forward to sharing self-defence moves with women for free as part of International Women's Day. Photo / George Novak
Tauranga martial arts experts are offering free self-defence classes to women as part of International Women's Day today.
Christine Young from Tauranga Martial Arts Academy said she hoped to raise greater awareness of International Women's Day in Tauranga.
"This is exciting because New Zealand hasn't really embraced it so much.It hasn't been a big deal in New Zealand."
Ms Young and her team of fellow instructors would offer easy self defence moves for women of any levels.
She said the classes were open for women aged 12 and over to attend.
"Through martial arts we are empowering women to be more confident and have a greater voice," Ms Young said. "People think that it's quite a macho thing, and it can be, but it's not all about fighting. It's for self-defence and giving people more confidence to do what they want to do.
Ms Young said International Women's Day was celebrated overseas as a national holiday in countries such as Morocco and Turkey "and heaps more".
Fellow instructor Chloe Almey said she hoped the free lessons would serve as an eye-opener for women.
"It will give people the confidence and show them what they can do. People often don't believe what they can do in martial arts until they see it," she said.
The lessons begin at 6.45pm and run until 8pm at Tauranga Martial Arts Academy on 1st Ave West.
