Who uses Kapap/ESDS?

Kapap and ESDS have been taught to many clients in the UK, Europe and the USA ranging from police, military, and large companies through to small businesses and private clients.

What will I learn?

See our dedicated Kapap & ESDS pages to find out exactly what techniques you’ll be taught.

What if I have/have not taken martial arts before?

For many people, Kapap and ESDS are their first experience of self defence classes. However, we also have many students who come to train with us and have numerous years of experience in other systems. In fact, most Kapap/ESDS instructors have years of training in a variety of systems. Therefore, Kapap and ESDS have proven to be very open systems which welcome all who wish to participate, regardless of background.

How long will it take for me to become proficient in Kapap/ESDS?

Kapap and ESDS unlike many other martial arts, are a very fast-progressing system. Part of their design was driven by the need to train people very quickly and very efficiently. Consequently, it typically takes a person of average physical ability perhaps only several weeks before progress is achieved and noticeable.

How safe are Kapap/ESDS? Do I risk getting hurt?

Kapap and ESDS are as safe as any other martial art form. Our first principle is safety and classes are typically small and tightly controlled. The chances of being injured during a class are remote and even less than for any other sport. The chances of someone attacking you and being injured, however, are high.

What should I wear? Do I have to buy special equipment or clothes?

Unlike other martial art forms, there are no imposed uniforms for Kapap/ESDS. Track suits or jeans and a comfortable t-shirt are typically sufficient. For boxing, gloves and wrist wraps are required. We do require that you bring body protection (groin protection for men) to each class.

Is there a tournament competition and a belt system for Kapap & ESDS like other Martial Arts?

Kapap & ESDS do not have a colour belt system of advancement in expertise. There are no competition events like there are for other martial arts. Similarly, there are no katas in Kapap/ESDS.

Do you sell training clothes and gear?

During each session, we take orders for official Elite Self Defence gear for our students.

How long are the classes?

Tuesday’s class is 2 hours long and our saturday class is an hour long.

Do you teach ground fighting?

Yes, we understand the need to defend ourselves in the event we go to the ground. However, we always look to get up as soon as possible.

How do I get started?

Drop by our facilities during any normal class times, Tuesday or Saturday
during a training session, and there will be someone there to speak with you.
If you can't stop by, give us a call on 07882 625016 or send us an email

What if I am not sure about joining a class?

You are always welcome and encouraged to sit-in on a class to determine for yourself if Kapap or ESDS are right for you. There is no obligation whatsoever. Email or call us to set up a convenient time for you to explore Kapap and ESDS.

I want to spar, is that available?

Absolutely. Our continuing students participate in the intermediate/advanced level classes which include sparring (with gloves and full head protection) and grappling. In these classes, you'll test your combative skills with a partner who's trying to do the same. Student safety is always emphasized. These classes require the permission of the instructor to participate.

I don't want to spar, will I be forced to?

No. Sparring is conducted in the special optional fight class described above. In Kapap & ESDS it is not necessary to be good at sparring to learn to defend yourself. Remember, in self defence there are no rules. In sparring, some rules must be imposed to maintain student safety. While sparring may help you become a more proficient, coordinated fighter, it is not required.

I am a small person with little strength. How can Kapap and ESDS help me?

Kapap/ESDS are designed to benefit the average person. These systems are not about sheer strength or power. As a matter of fact one of the basic principles of Kapap/ESDS is that one should not oppose power with power. Rather, Kapap/ESDS blends a combination of physical skill with mental self-defence determination. Consequently, Kapap & ESDS are more accessible to more people of either sex, shape or size than many other martial art forms.

My partner and I both want to learn Kapap/ESDS. Can we take classes as a couple?

Why not? What better way to ensure that your better half is as prepared to face an attacker as you are? As an added bonus you are guaranteed a workout and training partner in your home as well.

Are you available for private tuition?

Yes, private tuition is the most effective way to learn self defence as you will be training one to one with the instructor.

We can cater for private tuition for groups of 1- 4 people so why not gather a couple of friends and book your private class together?

Where do the classes take place?

The classes will take place at the Beach Leisure Centre in Aberdeen.

Short courses/corporate training will take place in various locations, from client’s premises to rented studios and bars for scenario training.

If there’s anything that hasn’t been covered by the FAQs, don’t hesitate to call me
on 07882 625 016.