North Texas women say self-defense parties let them learn how protect themselves -- all in the comfort of their own home.
Instructor Jeff McKissack, of Defense By Design, said it one of the best ways for women and their friends to learn self-defense.
"Women do get together for a number of different reasons and things," he said. "Why not have self defense as one of those things?"
McKissack calls his programs BYOB -- bring your own bodyguard. The atmosphere makes it easier to learn techniques, he said.
"They're not coming into a classroom situation with a group of strangers," he said. "They're here with their friends. They're here to have fun. That automatically lowers their defenses a little bit to make them more receiving of what we're going to do."
Partygoer Paula Jandura agreed that the setting makes it easy to learn.
"I would highly recommend this, because unless you've done kickboxing or some self-defense course, you (have) probably not done anything, and I think most women haven't had exposure to this," partygoer Paula Jandura said. "We're intimidated by it."
At one local party, women of all ages learned how to spot trouble, what the best ways to deflect punches are and how to protect their heads and avoid getting knocked off their feet.
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"It's almost like a Tupperware party," said party attendee Rachel Li. "We have food and drinks, and it's a fun time, and it's also something you can take something from it."
She said she knew from personal experience how the class could come in handy.
"When I lived in Chicago, I actually was held up three times and mugged, and having some technique to use so you don't freeze up is very important," Li said. "At least it gives you something to fall back on."
Defense By Design teaches at homes, clubs, churches or other locations people ask for. The cost is $50 per person.
People interested in similar courses can also contact local martial centers and ask for their rates.
