I didn't have any experience with self defense classes until I stumbled across Mindset Lab. They have courses in several category types, so there's a little of something for everyone and any experience level: Combatives (defending yourself using only a tactical flashlight), Force on Force (a combination of classroom and scenario-based learning), and Other (stuff like how to escape restraints, defeating locks, and an improvised weapons lab). Every class I've taken (5 so far, and I hope to do more!) has challenged me beyond my comfort zone---and that's a really good thing. Learning theories and in the classroom is one thing, but I had no idea how I'd react in certain situations until I was placed in them in the scenarios portion of the classes. The owner and the role players are great guys and make everyone feel welcome and comfortable. I see why they call the company Mindset Lab---you really do change your mindset through taking classes with them. Highly recommended, even if you're not a gun owner (I'm not). read more