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Who Needs Self Defense?
Two women share their experiences.
By Alex Iglecia
Published in the Boston Women's Journal

Beth and Alison completed an 8-week introduction to personal protection, Genuine Bussey Style.
We took a few minutes to ask them about their thoughts after passing the first set of milestones on their way to earning a C.A. (Combat Advisor) certification.

[Note - Genuine Bussey Style is now POWER. TO PROTECT]]

Why did you take the Genuine Bussey Style Session?

Beth
”I am a young, single woman, and I live alone. There will be times that I feel intimidated by someone else and not in control over my environment. I do not want someone else to have more control over my body than I do. The session helped me to feel more secure knowing that I have options and there is an exit to potentially dangerous and dangerous situations.”

Alison
”I had been looking for a self-defense type of class for about six years and had only seen the Model-Mugging type of class in which the attacker wears a padded suit. After hearing from various people that that type of training is often unrealistic (usually muggers grab, wrestle etc.), didn't want to bother.

After seeing the BCAE catalogue blurb about Genuine Bussey style and looking up Robert Bussey's website, was much more interested. The Bussey website emphasized the martial arts background, the basis on natural movements, and the ability of people of all experiences to easily grasp it. The website also easily convinced my very anti-self-defense class boyfriend.”

What would you tell your friends about Genuine Bussey Style?

Beth
”I would encourage friends of mine, male and female, to take the class. I would describe Bussey Style as focusing on "What If, No Rule" situations. I believe this is very beneficial in many types of threatening situations. Being jumped or car jacked really has no set structure. Bussey forces you to act quick and smart in order to escape. ”

Alison
”I would emphasize that it’s fit for men, women, and children. Does feel reflexive, thus inspiring confidence in ability to actually defend oneself without practicing daily or being black belt. I think the martial arts aspect appeals to men and the "using your natural abilities" appeals to women b/c they don't feel pressured to be especially coordinated or athletic.”

How would you describe the instructor?

Beth
”I found the Alex Iglecia to be very professional, committed, and have a pleasant demeanor. Alex did a good job at alleviating concerns with a variety of different personalities within the class. He provided alternative moves for people who had trouble with certain issues regarding either strength or flexibility. If an answer was not readily available he always made it a point to find the answer and address it at the next class. He also made himself available in and out of class for questions or concerns. ”

Alison
”Being upbeat and focused is a big plus, gives students a sense of structure, planning, and options to situations (attacks) that would normally feel anything but. Confidence-inspiring to be able to throw scenarios out and see them met with ad-libbed moves that work well, shows extent of instructor's knowledge.

It was also really nice that he went the extra mile; going out with the class afterwards was a nice touch. I think the instructor makes or breaks the class no matter how terrific the material may be.”

 

How do you feel now about your ability to protect yourself?

Beth
”I know that any situation that will arise will be intimidating and fearful, however, I feel this experience has allowed me to realize that there are exits and options and the class helps you to react to these situations quickly. I feel I am much better off having taken this class.”

Alison
”I automatically feel much more confident in public places knowing that I have options at hand and in ability to extrapolate if a confrontation doesn't fit an exact attack scenario.