FAQs

WW2 combatives involve physical contact, and while minor bumps and bruises are common, serious injuries are rare with mindful practice.
 
Our instructors are highly experienced and continuously emphasize technical precision and control to minimize injury risks.
 
Expect to feel some muscle soreness, especially after your first few sessions, as you’ll be engaging muscle groups you may not have used in this way before. With consistent practice, you’ll likely feel this after most sessions—a sign of building strength and resilience.

You don’t need any specific level of fitness to get started! Training in something enjoyable and engaging will naturally help improve your fitness and keep you motivated. We will ease you into training at your own pace, and no one will push you beyond your comfort zone or capabilities.

Eventually you will want to buy your own, but the club will loan equipment to you for free as a beginner.

Absolutely! In fact, many of the original students of this combat system were women. During WWII, the Special Operations Executive (SOE) sent 39 female agents into occupied France, all of whom received combatives training. A well-known example is Nancy Wake, nicknamed the “White Mouse” for her skill in evading the Gestapo. During a raid, she used her training to kill an SS sentry, recalling, “They’d taught this judo-chop stuff with the flat of the hand at SOE, and I practiced it. This was the only time I used it—whack—and it killed him all right. I was really surprised.”

The suitability of WW2 combatives for individuals with disabilities depends on the severity and nature of the condition. If you feel capable and interested in participating, we are committed to making reasonable adjustments to facilitate your training.
 
Our lead instructor is neurodivergent (with dyslexia and dyspraxia) and has extensive knowledge of neurodivergent learning styles and the necessary accommodations to support all students effectively.
Many aspects of WW2 combatives are indeed applicable to modern self-defense, particularly skills like situational awareness and quick decision-making under pressure. However, many of the techniques taught in these classes emphasize pre-emptive strikes and intense physical force, which, if used in a modern context, could lead to serious legal consequences.
 
We do not advocate using this class as a self-defense program. Our goal is purely to keep history alive by practicing the techniques and skills in a safe and controlled environment, for enjoyment and educational purposes only.

Unfortunately, due to insurance restrictions, we are unable to accept children under the age of 16. However, individuals aged 16 and older are welcome to join with an adult guardian.