We're pleased to be able to offer free self-defence classes for the Trans* and gender non-conforming community of Manchester 💜
With hates crimes toward trans* people on the rise globally, and an increase of + 69% to hate crimes reported by trans people in the last 12 months in Greater Manchester, learning to protect yourself is a critical life skill 💞
Self-defence is about learning to stay calm, and being prepared, for when some is acting aggressively towards you within your personal space.
It is not about attacking someone with great skill, but instead disarming the situation, and being equipped to remove yourself from a situation as quickly as possible, should the aggressor be unwilling to calm down.
In these fully funded classes, made available thanks to Sparkle - The National Transgender Charity, we have a trained instructor delivering easy-to-use self-defence skills.
Facilitated by LGBTQ Wellness and Be Trans Aware, we are experts in management of accessible and safe spaces for trans* and GNC people:
- a private studio space solely for our participants
- accessible shower and toilet facilities
- Volunteers on site to support from the moment you arrive at the gym
- full support assured directly from the Board of PureGym UK, and the PureGym LGBTQ+ Forum
Key information:
- we will provide gloves and pads
- we will mostly work in pairs, with people of similar size and experiences
- complete beginners to self-defence and/or exercise are welcome
- water is available on site
- accessible and gender neutral toilet and shower facilities are available on site
- we will meet you at the studio entrance to bring you into the studio
Keeping you safe and comfortable:
- we know everyone will be nervous first arriving
- we know gyms can be particularly daunting for us all
- we are on site from 6:30pm to ensure your comfort from arrival
- we will direct you to our studio, and all changing facilities
- you will have our number should you need to call us
FAQ
Is there gender neutral changing facilities/toilets?
- The ground floor offers an accessible toilet and separate accessible shower
- Our studio is positioned 10 seconds directly from the accessible facilities
Who is the instructor?
- a cis ally, Johnny is a friend of the owner of LGBTQ Wellness, James/Jade 🏳️⚧️
- having been an MMA fighter, and working as a bouncer for 10 years, Johnny has completed various qualifications in disarmament and self-defence
- contrary to preconceived ideas people have of an ‘MMA ex-bouncer’, he is a Big Friendly Giant with a heart as pure as gold💛
- Johnny will do his utmost to make you feel comfortable, and learn in a safe and calm setting
Why PureGym?
- Historically known for being a ‘certain type’ of gym, in recent years PureGym has invested heavily in creating safer, more inclusive studios.
- Having the backing of the Board of PureGym UK, and their LGBTQ+ Forum w✨ch includes the Diversity & Inclusion lead for the UK, we have been offered full support in delivering these classes in their studios, and will do everything they can to ensure the safety and comfort of our participants.
- If this program of work is successful, PureGym may roll this out at other studios in major cities - this therefore has the potential to be a BIG win for the community ✨
So let's enjoy it, and make it Bada$$ ! 💜💜💜✨