Always a student.
Practical by experience.
I’m Chris Friesen, Owner and Chief Instructor of Self-Defense Manitoba. My approach is shaped by more than 30 years of learning, training and teaching.
Keep it simple.
Keep learning.
My philosophy on self-defense centres on simplicity. I work to strip away techniques and tactics that are unessential or too complex, so the focus stays on practical skills.
I believe self-defense should be accessible to people of different ages, genders, fitness levels and body types. That belief guides how I develop and teach each session.
A wide foundation.
A practical focus.
I have been involved in self-defense and combatives as both a student and an instructor for more than 30 years. My training has included taekwondo, jiu jitsu, karate, jeet kune do and boxing, alongside reality-based systems such as Blauer Tactical Systems, Target Focus Training, Commando Krav Maga and Senshido International.
That varied background informs a straightforward approach: keep learning, question complexity, and focus on what makes training useful for everyday people.
Commando Krav Maga · 2012
I became certified in Commando Krav Maga on March 4, 2012, following an intensive certification course. It challenged me emotionally, mentally and physically, pushed my perceived limits, and helped me become a better instructor.
SAFE International · 2013–2016
In June 2013, I became a Certified Partner of SAFE International. I taught its self-defense courses until the end of 2016, when I returned to teaching independently as Self-Defense Manitoba.
Senshido International · 2014–2015
I attended invitation-only Senshido International training courses in Toronto in 2014 and Montreal in 2015. In 2015, I also trained one on one with Richard Dimitri in Toronto.
Always a student
One of the most important lessons from my training is to never stop being a student. I continue to value new ideas and perspectives, including what I can learn from my own students when I stay open to it.
The thinking behind
the training.
Watch my original two-part interview on reality-based self-defense.
Practical training.
For everyday people.
Start with a seminar. Build your skills. Bring training to your workplace or group.