WAUWATOSA, Wis. — Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Academy in Wauwatosa is seeing an increase in people taking self-defense classes.
Over the last few years, the city of Milwaukee has seen an increase in violent crime. That increase is part of what caused the local jiu-jitsu academy to go back to its roots — focusing on teaching self-defense.
For the past two and a half years, the Knudtson family has been training at Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Academy in Wauwatosa. All six siblings and their parents train together in self-defense, as well as in a handful of other classes.
“This definitely teaches you to be more aware and more disciplined, and just focus on it as much as you can, so you have the confidence when you go out into the world,” student Hannah Knudtson said.
The family joined the academy in hopes of having their kids learn more about protecting themselves and situational awareness. It’s something that mom Rachelle Knudtson said is extremely important to her.
“Society is not a safe place to be.” Rachelle Knudtson said. “Neighborhoods aren’t safe, especially as our kids are growing up, high-school, getting out into the workforce, going out into the stores. We don’t want them to be someone who is taken advantage of or abused in any way.”
Teaching safety and awareness is one of the many reasons why owner Skye Middelton started the academy and began offering self-defense classes.
He said he’s noticed the increasing crime trends within the community and wanted to do something about it.
“I don’t think there is any greater calling for a human being than to help others,” Middelton said. “While it is a business also, we are helping the community, and that’s what really helps me sleep at night and want to get up in the morning. It’s powerful.”
The classes are mostly about learning news skills to remain safe and confident. But for the Knudtson family, it’s also about having fun and being with their family while they learn.
“It’s fun to know, and it’s very good to know.” Abby Knudtson said. “I have never had to use it. I can play around with my friends every once in a while and that’s fun. But I’m glad I’ve never had to use it. It’s very valuable to know, especially as I am getting older and going out into the world,”
The family said it’s a practical way for them to stay safe and prepare for the worst, all while hoping for the best.