Self-defense classes for ladies offered by former Marine in Perry

A retired Marine who has traveled all over the world returned home to Perry and decided to bring a few talents with him.

Twelve years ago, retired Marine Gunnery Sgt. John D. Brown Jr. started teaching Martial Arts in the Marine Corps. It was then Brown knew that once he retired, he wanted to continue coaching and teaching.

On Aug. 26, Brown opened the Combinations Defensive Fighting gym in Perry.

He noticed there was not much opportunity in the immediate area for Mixed Martial Arts, and so the Combinations Defensive Fighting gym was born.

“I wanted to bring more awareness and security to the area,” said Brown.

The Mixed Martial Arts gym offers a variety of classes, including a female self-defense class on Saturdays.

When his first class was held, a dozen women stared wide-eyed at Brown as he began teaching them the art of self-defense.

“Did you know that in Colorado a female was on her morning jog when a male tried grabbing her. In the same park, a different lady was raped,” stated Brown. “You never know when or where you will be attacked. Age does not matter!”

Markita Cohen of Warner Robins shared, “This class is beneficial for me. I work in downtown Macon and I normally arrive at work around 6:30 a.m. I park in a parking garage. It is useful especially since you never know when something can happen. This also gives me and my daughter something to do together.”

“The female self defense class is combination of mental and physical skills. It teaches females the physical aspects of defense, such as different types of strike methods, but it also teaches women how to be aware of their surroundings,” stated Brown. “I want my students to be able to see situations before they happen.”

The gym offers more than just female self-defense classes. There are classes for kids and adults, a fight fitness class, advanced classes, and open training.

“This is also a place for kids. Not all kids are involved in sports. This gives them another outlet to learn discipline and to physically get stronger,” shared Brown.

The gym’s mission states students will become physically and mentally prepared to protect themselves in the event of or when faced with physical confrontation.

Brown is a 1990 graduate from Perry High School. He served in the Army and Marine Corps for more than 17 years and retired in July.

The gym is located at 1307 Ball St., Suite 400 in Perry. For class times and more information contact Brown at 478-955-9462.

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