Bolstering Self-assurance Slightly Further
The 8c class of Kardinal-von-Galen-Gymnasium in Hiltrup embarked on an unconventional learning journey, participating in a boxing and self-defense training session led by Strong Partners. The event, held on the lawn of the LBS at Himmelreichallee in Münster, saw the students travel by bicycle and roller to hone their practical self-defense skills, build confidence, and improve their physical fitness.
The session was led by Mitch Judd, Shari Bagusche, and Nina Scholz from Strong Partners. Mitch Judd emphasised the importance of controlled self-assertion, keeping opponents at a distance, and avoiding harm to others during the training. The trainers from Strong Partners explained techniques clearly and concisely, making them easy to understand for the students, most of whom had no previous experience with boxing.
The practical part of the session focused on finding the fighting stance with secure footing, practicing punching techniques, evasive maneuvers, and learning how to free oneself from unwanted embraces or strong hand-holding. Federica, who has experience in Taekwondo, had a sparring session with trainer Shari and received praise for her skills.
The warm-up with Nina was a breeze, and the students became more confident and skillful in their punches and movements as the training progressed. Emilie and Smilla enjoyed the training, with Emilie commenting, "This is cool here." Kjell summarised the training as "really fun" and found it helpful in finding a balance between attack and defense.
Axel Niedenfuhr, PR representative from LBS Nord-West, participated in the training session as a quasi-co-trainer, having learned self-defense techniques. He demonstrated protective hand positions and dodging techniques to the eighth-graders, further enhancing their learning experience.
The balance exercises with the ball awakened ambition and team spirit among the students, making the training session a memorable and empowering experience for all involved. Such training sessions are typically organised to teach students practical self-defense skills, build confidence, and improve physical fitness. They aim to empower young people to protect themselves, develop discipline, and foster teamwork through the structured environment of boxing and martial arts training.
The trainers from Strong Partners also incorporate education-and-self-development into their sessions, highlighting the relevance of learning football techniques for the development of strategic thinking and teamwork. Kjell, who is also passionate about sports, particularly football, reflected on the session, stating, "Learning these self-defense skills is like playing football, it requires coordination, quick thinking, and the ability to work as a team."
