- Originally published on the Bartitsu.org site on Thursday, 16th December 2010
by SARAH N. FITZGERALD, METRO VANCOUVER
For many, the Lower Mainland’s wet weather comes with the burden of carrying around an often-cumbersome umbrella. But what if you could turn your weather-based tool into your own personal defence device?
Academie Duello offers an umbrella self-defence workshop that will teach you how to use your wet weather companion to ward off any hooligans.
The course runs several times a year and is based on Bartitsu — a stick-fighting style developed in Victorian England.
David McCormick, who teaches the course, said it’s quite popular.
“It’s very energizing because unlike some martial arts (it’s not) an exhaustive, fatiguing workout. (We) teach skills that are at the same time fun and practical so people can remember what they’ve learned.”
The course, which lasts four hours, costs $60 and is good for most ages and body types, said McCormick.
As for the satisfaction level, McCormick said students are usually laughing when they leave, “and seeing a tool they use everyday in a whole new light.”
For more information on David’s umbrella defence and Bartitsu courses, please visit the Academie Duello’s Bartitsu page.