Pella High School students recently learned the basics of self-defense.

Last week, Matt and Chris White of Triumph Martial Arts spent the entire day at Pella Community High School, working with over 350 kids across 8 different PE classes. Freshman and Sophomore kids worked on basic self-defense skills from a standing position, while Juniors and Seniors learned how to protect themselves if taken to the ground.

“We’ve been working with PE teachers at area schools for years,” says Matt, Chief Instructor at Triumph. We understand that the needs and interests of kids vary by age, so we’ve always tailored our martial arts and self-defense presentations to fit the audience.”

Pella High students learned important basics of self-defense, such as walking with confidence and making eye contact, as well as staying engaged and being aware of their surroundings.

“This year we wanted to share some “advanced self-defense” techniques with the Juniors and Seniors.” According to White, “Most of them have been through our training before, so we wanted to add something a little different, and build upon what we’ve taught in the past.” Upper-class students learned how to fall safely, how to keep an attacker away, and how to defend and escape – all while on the ground.”

Triumph Martial Arts offers ATA Taekwondo, Carlos Machado Jiu-Jitsu, and KMF-AC Krav Maga training options for families in Marion, Mahaska, and Jasper counties. Triumph will celebrate its 20th Anniversary next year.