Self-defence for women and men

If someone grabs you tonight, will you know what to do?

Practical Krav Maga and Jiu-Jitsu self-defence in Marbella. No experience and no special fitness needed.

Practical protection for everyday life

Our self-defence classes draw on Krav Maga and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to give you simple, effective responses to real-life threats — no previous experience or special fitness needed.

You will learn to recognise danger early, de-escalate where possible and act decisively when you have to.

  • ✓ Techniques that work under stress
  • ✓ Awareness, avoidance and de-escalation
  • ✓ Suitable for all ages, sizes and fitness levels
  • ✓ Welcoming, respectful training environment

1997

Teaching in Marbella since

6th Dan

Patrick Bittan, founder

18+

Champion titles won by the team

65+

National and European medals

Real life

The situations we train for

Real life rarely looks like a film. We practise the moments people actually face.

Walking to your car at night

Awareness, distance and what to do if someone follows you.

Pushed to the ground

If someone takes you down and gets on top, Jiu-Jitsu teaches you how to get them off and back on your feet.

With your child next to you

You can’t just run. Learn where to put your child and how to keep the attacker away.

Grabbed or pinned

Wrist, hair, a bear hug from behind, pushed against a wall — break the hold and get away.

Trouble outside a bar

Calm the situation first, and defend only if you must.

Someone with a weapon

Basic, realistic responses — and knowing when to simply run.

Patrick Bittan

Your coach

Learn from someone who has been there

In Brazil, Patrick entered an open-weight tournament against an opponent of around 150 kilos. He went down under the full weight of the bigger man and his jaw was badly broken.

Many people would have stopped there. Patrick healed, went back to training, and one year later he was world champion.

That resilience sits at the heart of how we teach self-defence: stay calm, adapt and never give up.

Step by step

How you progress

From your first class to real confidence under pressure.

01

First class

Learn simple, effective responses from day one.

02

Awareness

Spot danger early and avoid trouble before it starts.

03

Core defences

Escapes from grabs, holds and strikes.

04

Pressure testing

Realistic drills that build calm reflexes.

05

Confidence

Skills you can rely on in everyday life.

Programmes

Our classes

All levels

Self-Defence Fundamentals

The essential building blocks: stance, awareness, strikes and escapes from common attacks.

  • Escapes from grabs and holds
  • Striking and creating distance
  • Situational awareness

Intermediate

Krav Maga Applied

Scenario-based training that builds confidence under pressure.

  • Defences against multiple attackers
  • Stress drills
  • Ground survival

Small groups

Private & Women’s Sessions

Focused sessions tailored to your goals, schedule and comfort level.

  • One-to-one or small group
  • Personalised plan
  • Flexible scheduling

Class days and times are listed on our timetable. See membership for prices.

What you will learn

Six skills, one system

Krav Maga covers threats while standing. Jiu-Jitsu covers what happens if you end up on the ground. Together, they cover both.

Awareness

Reading the street before trouble starts.

Escapes

Getting free from common holds and grabs.

Defence

Protecting yourself against strikes and kicks.

Reaction speed

Drills repeated until the response is automatic.

Stress control

Breathing and clear decisions under pressure.

Weapons

Realistic responses to armed threats.

Common worries

“I’d like to, but…”


I would freeze

Most people do, the first time. We train the same reactions again and again, under light pressure, until your body moves before you have time to panic.

I’m not strong or fit

Good technique beats size. Jiu-Jitsu was built so a smaller person can control a bigger one using leverage. Fitness comes with training — it isn’t a requirement to start.

I don’t want to get hurt in class

Every technique is taught slowly first, with a partner at your level. You decide the pace, and the coach watches the whole time.

I’m a woman — will I feel comfortable?

Classes are mixed, respectful and supervised. You choose your partner, and you can always ask to train with another woman.

Do I need to buy gear?

Not to start. You can borrow gloves and pads at the academy. If you stay, gloves and a mouthguard are available here.

Gallery

Inside the academy

★★★★★

“Practical, friendly and professional. I feel far more confident walking home at night.”

Self-defence student — add a real Google review here

When you can train

Monday

  • Krav Maga (12+)

    –

Tuesday

  • Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu All

    –

Wednesday

  • Krav Maga (12+)

    –

Thursday

  • Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu All

    –

Saturday

€700

per year, adults. Less than a coffee a day to know how to protect yourself

€80

per month, if you prefer

FREE

first class, no commitment

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost?

Your first class is free. See our membership page for current prices.

What age can I start?

Our self-defence classes are open to teens and adults. Children have their own kids programme.

What is the difference between self-defence and Krav Maga?

Krav Maga is one of the systems we teach. Our self-defence programme combines it with Jiu-Jitsu for the ground.

How quickly will I learn useful skills?

You will learn practical techniques from your very first class. Confidence and reflexes build with regular training.

How often should I train?

Two classes a week is a good start. Consistency matters more than intensity.

Do you offer private sessions?

Yes — one-to-one or small group sessions can be arranged. Contact us for details.

Still have a question? Get in touch — we’re happy to help.