Derwent Self Defence Club

Derwent Self Defence Club

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Self defence classes based in East Riding of Yorkshire

Affiliated with Bearsden Martial Arts, the club has its roots in Shotokai Karate but, reflecting the interests of the senior instructors, has evolved to incorporate elements of many martial arts, such as judo, jiu-jitsu and aikido. The over-arching principle is one of self defence and the emphasis is on self development and continual improvement so there is no competitive fighting element to what we do.

Photos from Derwent Self Defence Club's post 05/06/2026

Waaay back in January we held a course and grading but unfortunately, due to injury, Christine couldn't complete the entire grading. Last night she finished the job and achieved her yellow belt. We are so proud of her and her determination plus a fabulous hip throw! Well done Christine!

Photos from Bearsden Martial Arts Club's post 31/05/2026

Congratulations Rachel from all of us at DSDC 👊

08/05/2026

Last week, one of the members had seen some self defence techniques online and wanted to try them out. So we did. Some of them really didn't work for us so we played around to see what DID work.
No need for complicated moves. Simple techniques that work.

16/02/2026

Fabulous work from Bearsden Martial Arts Club we hope to join you for this year's event 👊

We’re absolutely delighted that our 40th birthday has been recognised with a Scottish Parliament motion. Everyone involved with BMAC is very proud of the club, our efforts to make martial arts as accessible as possible, and our fundraising for good causes.

A big thank you to our local MSP Marie McNair MSP for raising the motion and supporting the club.

You can read the full text on the Scottish Parliament website:
https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/votes-and-motions/S6M-20807

31/01/2026

We couldn't say it better ourselves...

BMAC’s motto is self‑defence skills for all. We believe martial arts should feel open, welcoming and accessible to anyone who wants to learn, grow and have fun along the way.

This photo of BMAC’s Louise and Matt from Derwent Self Defence Club captures that spirit perfectly. Yes, there’s a noticeable size difference between them, and that’s exactly the point. Both are green belts, both are progressing brilliantly, and both are pushing themselves enthusiastically toward their next grade. We can’t wait to see how their skills continue to flourish.

No matter your age, build, experience or fitness level, martial arts training has something valuable to offer you. It will challenge you, strengthen you and reward you in ways you might not expect. If you’re inspired or ready to try something new, get in touch and begin your martial arts journey with BMAC. We’d love to welcome you to our club.

Photos from Derwent Self Defence Club's post 30/01/2026

A civilised pictured then a silly one from the course 🤣 By the end of the day, new faces had become familiar friends. We were sad to wave off Bearsden Martial Arts Club but we're planning a road trip up to them soon!

Photos from Derwent Self Defence Club's post 29/01/2026

Happy birthday to our coach, Emma!
Celebrated the right way with chunky slices of home made birthday cake (Thank you Jennifer!) at tonight’s session (post-training, of course!)’

26/01/2026

As part of the course, we held a grading where club members got to show off their skills. As a result, Shane was awarded a red belt, Jenny a yellow belt and Matt a green belt.
A fantastic display from everyone. Very proud of you all.

25/01/2026

We had a fantastic weekend training with our friends at Bearsden Martial Arts Club so much information that we will work on!

We also did a grading and have a new red belt, yellow belt and green belt. Fantastic work everyone. I am so proud of you all for how hard you trained this weekend and leading upto it.

Hard work deserves a social! The Percy Arms Airmyn thanks for the delicious grub!

23/01/2026

We are so excited to see and train with our friends at Bearsden Martial Arts Club

The course will include groundwork, attacks against the wall, defence against knives and a grading!

It's gonna be good!

It’s all aboard the BMAC bus as a group of us head to Yorkshire today to train with our good friends at Derwent Self Defence Club. This is our second visit to DSDC and if the first one is anything to go by, this weekend should be a blast!

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Location

Telephone

Address


Cadet Hall, Flatgate, Howden
York
DN147AD

Opening Hours

Monday 6pm - 7pm