A NEW martial art system has opened at Alnwick's Willowburn Sports and Leisure Centre.
Directional Fighting Method is a no-nonsense modern martial art that teaches self-defence and practical fighting techniques.
The system teaches practitioners how to use simple changes in direction and body weight to deliver devastating boxing punches, kicks, strikes, locks and takedowns to an assailant.
As most street fights end up on the ground, grappling and restraint t
echniques form a significant part of the style.
The system is the third of four schools that DFM Martial Arts are offering in the town. The two other DFM schools already open – combat kickboxing and kickboxing 4 fitness – are also based at the leisure centre and are held on Wednesday evenings, starting at 7pm.
DFM Instructor Phil Doherty said: "The system is based on the eight angles of evasion which are the directions a defender can move to when evading an attack.
"Because the four main areas of fighting are taught – punches and kicks, locks, takedowns and grappling – it provides a good all-round effective system that is suited to both sexes.
"There are no high kicks or martial sports techniques in Directional Fighting Method. It's a no-nonsense art with one purpose in mind – to allow its practitioners to be able to defend themselves against violent assault.
"As well as learning open hand techniques the system also teaches weapons such as knives, sticks and staff, and how to defend against them.
"This system is ideal for both novices and those martial artists who want a practical, modern style devoid of competition training. It's simple and straight to the point."
Three DFM's Kickboxing students recently took their first gradings. Lisa Williams, Mark Fox and Dianne Crole all passed their yellow belts after good displays of fitness, technique and sparring at the Willowburn Sports Centre-based school.
DFM Kickboxing Instructor Darren Currah said: "The students showed true determination and the grading panel were very impressed with the standard they had achieved.
"Kickboxing provides good fitness training and builds confidence and self-belief."
For further details phone Darren Currah on 07967 724064 or Phil Doherty on 0191 4143070 or email us at directionalfightingmethod@yahoo.co.uk
