Reading Martial Arts
& Self Defence School
Most People Learn Martial Arts That Look Good… But Fail in Real Life.
At SDCA we teach practical self-defence for the real world — not choreographed moves, but real skills that protect, empower, and build confidence at any age.
Does this sound familiar?
🔵 Your child is being bullied and it’s crushing their confidence.
🔵 You’re worried they’re struggling with discipline, focus, or respect.
🔵 You’re scared your daughter wouldn’t know how to react if something ever happened.
🔵 You don’t feel confident walking alone, especially at night.
🔵 You’ve been told to “stay calm” – but no one showed you how.
🔵 You want your family to be safe — not just fit or flexible.
🔵 You freeze when things get real, because you’ve never trained under pressure.
🔵 You’ve tried traditional martial arts… and it didn’t work when it mattered.
We feel your frustration.
You’re not alone in this — and we’re here to offer you something different. Something practical. Powerful. And potentially life-changing.
Hi there, I’m Master Dave, and I’ve been training in martial arts for over 30 years. I hold 7 black belts, along with a range of instructor qualifications - but what matters most to me is using that experience to help people grow in confidence, strength, and self-belief.
Anyone who knows me or has trained with me knows how passionate I am about what I do. I genuinely love teaching and seeing that spark in my students when things start to click - when they realise just how capable they really are.
I’m not here to judge anyone. I’m easy-going, friendly, and I always aim to make people feel comfortable from day one. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to take things to the next level, I’ll tailor your training to suit you.
I’m also flexible when it comes to private training or group events - whether it’s one-to-one, at your home, or something specific for schools, teams or workplaces, I’ll work around you.
If you’re ready to give it a go - or just want to find out more - I’d love to hear from you.
I Am Currently Teaching
SDCA Classes In Reading!
Check Out Our Programmes
Kids’ Self-Defence (Ages 7–17)
Confidence. Focus. Respect.
We teach kids how to stay safe, stand tall, and handle real-world threats.
Tuesdays & Thursdays 6–7pm | Caversham Hall
& The Weller Centre
Girls-Only Self-Defence (Ages 13 - 17)
Strong. Capable. Unstoppable.
A safe space to learn real-world self-defence designed specifically for Girls.
Wednesday's 5–6pm | The Weller Centre
Adults Self-Defence
Sharp skills. Real results.
Built for real life — fast, effective training to protect yourself and others.
Weekly classes + private options available
Private 1-to-1 Training
100% personal. 100% results.
Tailored coaching with Master Dave — built around your goals.
Corporate Self-Defence
Protect your people. Empower your team.
Custom training for staff in pubs, NHS, care, security, schools & more.
Online Self-Defence Courses
Train anywhere. Stay prepared.
Access powerful, step-by-step training online — anytime, at your pace.
[View courses →]
Train with Us & Gain
Real Confidence!
The way we teach our martial arts and self defence classes will naturally build rock solid conifidence that lasts and shows.
Here’s What Makes Us Different – and Why Students Keep Coming Back
We Teach Self-Defence That Works in the Real World
This isn’t choreographed martial arts. It’s no-nonsense, real-life training that shows you how to protect yourself and your loved ones — fast. Whether it’s a street attack, confrontation, or bullying situation, you’ll be ready.
Confidence. Clarity. Control.
Our training goes deeper than punches and kicks. You’ll develop the mindset to stay calm under pressure, make quick decisions, and walk through life with real confidence — not fear.
A Safe, Supportive Environment for All Ages & Abilities
Everyone is welcome here — beginners, families, key workers, women, teens. We build a strong community where you’re pushed to improve but always supported. No egos. No intimidation. Just progress.
Skills You Can Use from Day One
From the very first class, you’ll be learning practical, effective techniques that you can actually remember and apply. Awareness, boundary setting, striking, ground survival — it’s all real, relevant, and powerful.
Your First Step Starts Here
Book your free trial today — and feel the difference from the moment you walk in.
Check Out Some Of The
Action At Our School
Master Dave Demonstrating an Arm Bar Takedown on Instructor Sam!
Instructor Sam Teaching Striking With The Breakboards!
Certifacation time!
Master Dave Demonstrating an Arm Bar Takedown on Instructor Sam!
Want A Free Trial
Class At SDCA?
Book your FREE class today and start your journey toward strength, confidence, and total self-defence mastery!
All you have to do is click on the (Get Stared) link below.
Reviews from Our Students
“I wasn’t sure what to expect, but this free class was amazing! The techniques were simple yet effective, and I left feeling more confident than ever. The instructor was friendly and knowledgeable—I’ll definitely be coming back!”
- Sarah W
“I brought my 10-year-old son to the free class, and we both loved it! The atmosphere was welcoming, and the training was practical and fun. Highly recommend this for anyone wanting to learn real self-defence!”
- James R
“I’ve always wanted to learn self-defence but never took the leap—until now! The free class was eye-opening, and I learned valuable skills in just one session. No pressure, just great training. Can’t wait for the next class!”
- Emma T
Frequently asked questions
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late!
A dangerous situation can happen anytime. The best time to prepare was yesterday. The next best time is NOW.
Book your FREE class today and start your journey toward strength, confidence, and total self-defence mastery!
