Self Defense

Our self defense clinics are a major component of how we at Harlem Free Fight Academy use martial arts to impact the community. Personal safety should not be a privilege, and by offering these clinics completely free of charge, we remove the financial barriers that too often prevent those at the highest risk from accessing the protection they deserve. We host clinics monthly to ensure we are consistently showing up for our community — not as a one-time event, but as an ongoing commitment to the health and safety of every person who walks through our doors.

We also recognize that self defense is not one-size-fits-all. That's why, in addition to our general clinics, we offer specialized training designed for the unique risks and environments that specific groups navigate every day. Our specialized clinics serve nightlife workers, healthcare workers, first responders, and small business owners — populations who face distinct and often underappreciated safety challenges in their work. We tailor each clinic to be as relevant and practical as possible, so participants leave with tools they can actually use in the situations they're most likely to encounter.

Whether you're attending for the first time or returning to sharpen your skills, everyone is welcome. For the most up to date information on upcoming clinics, please email mattg@harlemfreefight.org or check our schedule on BJJ Link.

"Jiu jitsu and martial arts do not build character, they reveal it."
— Ricardo Almeida