Krav Maga Self-Defense and Kickboxing in Norwich Connecticut

Imagine living your life knowing you were expertly trained to deal with any attack, and in better shape than
you ever thought possible.
Welcome to Krav Maga.

"I have been involved in many sports but this really has been great for all around conditioning."

Dr. Steven Green, 58 years old, 360 Defense student since 2002.

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"I have been taking martial arts for several years and I have been extremely impressed with what it has done for me. My strength, flexibility and endurance have all significantly improved. I have been involved in many sports but this really has been great for all around conditioning. Learning new physical maneuvers involved in a new form gives a real sense of accomplishment.

Mr. McShane and his staff are experts at what they do and are very understanding and patient teachers. The people that I have met through martial arts have been the best. I look forward to going every week." - Dr. Steven Green

Do Any Of These Describe You?

You want to feel better and get in shape.
You’ve tried running, the gym, cardio-kickboxing - but you didn’t get the results you wanted and it got boring.
You were into martial arts as a kid and want to get back to it, but you're not into wearing a baggy white gi.

With kids and work, it's hard to find time to get and stay in shape.
You're serious about learning real self-defense.
You need to burn off stress in a positive way.
New Years Resolutions never seem to work out.

You need a compelling reason to quit bad habits.
You're sick of the treadmill.
You're frustrated because exercise has never seemed to work out, and you're still paying for that unused gym membership.

You need to get around some positive people.
You just want to have some fun.
...and hitting stuff sounds like that kind of fun.

This is 360 Defense Martial Arts.

Krav Maga is the fastest growing martial art for adults and combines real, practical self-defense with full-body conditioning to give you the best, most interesting workout you've ever experienced. With 360 Defense Krav Maga, you get:

- ...360 Defense Krav Maga. As one of the hottest adult martial arts out there, Krav Maga is a modern-day system taken directly from the Israeli military. Krav Maga is not a "martial art"... It is a no-nonsense, no-frills approach to self-defense. Krav Maga self-defense is easy for beginners to learn, and uses the body's natural reactions to set up realistic and devastating fighting techniques. If you missed it, Krav Maga was recently featured on the History Channel's 'Human Weapon' series, and 'Fight Quest' on Discovery. Just do a search on youtube for it. It's easy, fun, and IT WORKS.
- ...Kickboxing. This IS NOT CARDIO KICKBOXING! No tights, no aerobics, no bad 135bpm workout music. You will learn the proper techniques for kicking, punching, knees, and elbows, while blasting pads and targets for an incredible, calorie-burning workout. With 360 Defense, you get the best of kickboxing without getting in the ring.
- ... An Effective, Full-Body Workout that will leave you feeling accomplished, after every class. 360 Defense improves flexibility, tone, endurance, and energy, and burns up to 900 calories per hour. It's not uncommon for students to lose 10lbs. in their first month. Some have lost as much as 50lbs in under six months.
- ... Proven Self-Defense Principles designed to keep you safe. With 360 Defense Martial Arts, our Krav Maga system is continually improved so you're always getting the latest in martial arts tactics and development.
- ... The Motivation of a structured system to keep you seeing progress. This is where other exercise systems may have failed you. At 360 Defense, you have someone helping you, guiding you, and the support of other students just like you. In short, accountability. We help to build you from within, to create self-discipline so strong you won't need anyone else to push you.
- ... A Friendly, Safe Workout Environment. We have great people training here at 360 Defense, and a safe facility to keep you in 'fighting shape.' Our students are comprised of Doctors, Police Officers, Nurses, Coast Guard and Navy personnel, Engineers, and all sorts of professionals.
- ... The Attention of Full-time, Professional Instructors. This is important - at 360 Defense Martial Arts, teaching is our only job. Our instructors are not distracted by dayjobs - this means better quality instruction for you.
- ... A Fun Activity for YOU. It's time you can take for yourself, to vent frustrations and feel great, every week. You get to hit stuff HARD in this class. It's difficult NOT to feel better afterward.
- ... A Way To Meet New Friends. You'll surround yourself with motivated, like-minded people that will push you to try your best.
- ... Improved Energy. Working out keeps your body and mind balanced and gives you more energy at work and home. Would increased energy help you get more done?
- ... Goals, Short and Long-Term, with an emphasis placed on personal achievement. If you aren't a goal-oriented person, would it help you to become one? Martial Arts is one of the best ways to learn the habit of Setting Goals.
- ... less of a waistline.

Both my husband and I have noticed a greater level of confidence in myself.

Megin Sechen (Black Belt and mother of 2), Baltic CT

"Sensei McShane -

"After watching (my son's) classes, I often thought about trying martial arts myself. When Andrew signed up, I decided to give it a try. As nervous as I was, you and your staff made me feel comfortable. Over the past few months, I have noticed so many changes in myself. I definitely enjoy the workout. You push me to do things I never thought I could or would do. Both my husband and I have noticed a greater level of confidence in myself. I wish that I had known the self-defense techniques years ago.

Thank you again for all you, Mr. Hesser and the rest of the staff have done for my family."

The Best Way To Try Out Krav Maga Self-Defense For Yourself Is To Fill In The Blanks Below...

Head Instructor - Charlie McShane

5th Degree Black Belt in the 360 Defense system
2nd Degree Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Marcio Stambowsky
1st Degree Black Belt in United States Krav Maga (2/21)
Certified CT707 Israeli Special Forces Krav Maga Instructor under Nir Maman (9/9/12)
Certified Level 1 Krav Maga Instructor, Krav Maga Alliance (4/12)
Certified Level 1 Muay Thai Instructor under Master Tran (11/09)
Certified F.I.G.H.T. Israeli Martial Arts Instructor (10/08)
4th Degree Master Instructor, Pyong Hwa Kunin Tang Soo Do under Grandmaster Steve Voelker
Brown Belt in Judo at Norwich Judo Dojo
Certified LOCKUP Police Ground Fighting instructor under Rob Magao (6/15)
Student of AMOK Combatives/blade training under founder Tom Sotis.

Coach Charlie is a Level 1 Instructor in Tran's Muay Thai

With over 25 years of experience, Charlie has traveled all over the US and to England to study and compete in martial arts, as well as learn modern teaching and coaching techniques.

Competitive Achievements:

1999 ITSDMGKF World Championships, Watford, England - Gold Medalist: Lightweight Sparring
2003 IGTSDA World Championships, London, England - Gold Medalist: Weapons, Gold Medalist: Team Forms
2003 AAU US National Jiu-Jitsu Gold Medalist, Lightweight Gi Division, Houston Texas
2003 AAU US National Jiu-Jitsu Gold Medalist, Lightweight No-Gi, Houston Texas
2003 AAU US National Jiu-Jitsu Gold Medalist, Lightweight Traditional, Houston Texas

Rickson Gracie & Charlie McShane, 2005

Charlie has also instructed the Hartford Police in unarmed techniques, as well as taught a self-defense course at the Navy Base in Groton. He has taught martial arts to thousands of New London county students at 360 Defense Norwich since 2002.

As a full-time, professional martial artist since 1996, Charlie has trained with instructors like Marcio Macarrao Stambowsky (BJJ), Royce Gracie (BJJ), Mark Lane (Krav Maga) Paul Garcia (Krav Maga), Steven Voelker (Tang Too Do) Master Hung Tran (Muay Thai), Tom Sotis (AMOK), and top USJA instructors Bill Montgomery and Joan Love.

EVIDENCE:

"... And I've lost 30lbs."

Leanda Z, Brooklyn CT

"It's the best thing I've ever done for myself."

Natalie Gabor, Jewett City

"If you're looking for a place to learn self-defense and get fit and have fun while doing it, 360 Defense is the perfect place for you."

Sam C, 31, Norwich

"You're never judged."

Tina, Norwich

"I started to build more confidence in myself with each class I took."

I started 360 Defense when I was 40. As a wife and mother of four, my time has always been devoted to them. After years of sitting back, I took the leap and joined. I had so many mixed emotions about stepping onto the mat. How can someone my age even consider something new! I had never done anything like this, nevertheless made time for myself throughout the years.

I took my first class and what an amazing feeling! I am not sure what exactly I enjoyed the most. Was it the hour I allowed for the focus to be on me or was it the physical workout, or perhaps a combination of both. I started to build more confidence in myself with each class I took.

Three plus years later I was given the opportunity to train for my Black Belt. The encouragement and support throughout this school is absolutely amazing! Who said you can't teach old dogs new tricks!

I look forward to every class not only for myself, but helping others also! 360 Defense is not just a Martial Arts school, but a place you can go and know that there is always a welcoming smile, someone willing to lead a hand and help you grow both on and off the mat!

Carol Dziekan, Baltic

"Who knew that I would love martial arts so much?"

Sensei McShane, I'm so glad we found your school. Both me and Seth are loving. And thanks for kicking my bootay every Tuesday and Thursday morning. I look forward to the classes. Who knew that I would love martial arts so much? I should've started this years ago!! :)

Melissa Tamborra, Norwich CT

"I can’t believe how fast the weight is coming off."

30lbs. in four months (not typical).

Sensei McShane,
Thank you for taking me on as a student. In just 4 months time I’ve come halfway to my weight loss goal. I’ve lost a total of almost 30 pounds of my 60 pound goal. I can’t believe how fast the weight is coming off. I’m also more motivated at work and around the house. I have much more energy and feel great! I wish I found 360 Defense Martial Arts years ago!

Jason Pawloski, Brooklyn CT

"At 37 years old, I feel that I am the most fit I have been in my entire life."

I have been a student at 360 Defense Martial Arts for 2 years. I started as a parent sitting in the waiting area watching my 2 boys take class. My interest started in taking the adult class for fitness. I wanted to lose weight and to gain more energy. My husband wanted me to join to learn self defense. As a social worker for adults with severe mental health problems, many are homeless, as I am known to walk to a car with a person living in it and offer services, I work with male sex offenders, active substance abusers, I make DCF referrals and continue to work with the parents after the child had been taken away, etc. I never know what I will walk into and I am also a supervisor.

I never imagined that I would gain much more than fitness and self defense being a part of 360 Defense. The most amazing part of the school is the people. Sensei McShane, Sensei Fritz, Mr. Ayala, Mrs. Cedio, and all of the students is what makes the school different from anything that I have ever been a part of before. From the moment I walked onto the mat as a white belt I felt welcomed by the senior belts teaching and assisting me and always wanting to be a partner. I feel that the people I have met here at the school are lifelong friends. All of the instructors take the time to give me feedback so I can become better, with experience comes confidence. That is what I have learned through my time as a student.

I have learned that I am stronger than I could have ever imagined. And I just don’t mean in strength, but of course that too. At 37 years old, I feel that I am the most fit I have been in my entire life. I am able to keep up with my 2 very active boys and that is so important. What I have learned at 360 Defense makes me a better person, a better mother, a better supervisor, and a better me all around. I am very grateful to be a part of 360 Defense Martial Arts of Norwich.

Holly Fish
Norwich, CT

"The best thing I have done for myself."

360 Defense Martial Arts. I had walked by many times. I had a chemo cure that was 100% effective, however had left me in a low self esteem state of mind that would not pass. I stopped in, I signed up. That is the best thing I have done for myself. Just this week I joined a gym. I also have a left arm that is a bit limited. I now look forward to 360 Defense and the gym. Things are just so much better for me now. The staff are just so nice and effective. Self-esteem problems whats that.......I am 65 years old and thats just a number.

Russell Quinn, Norwich CT

"I wanted to do something to both challenge myself and get in shape."

I've always wanted to get seriously into a martial art. I did Judo many years ago, and for one reason or another, never got back into it. I wanted to do something to both challenge myself and get in shape. I found both at 360 Defense Martial Arts with the Krav Maga, kickboxing, and BJJ. I've done gyms before, but the missing element there for me was the camaraderie. At 360 Defense, you are surrounded by your fellow students all working towards the same goals; everybody supporting and pushing each other to do their best.

Matt Zupka, Norwich CT

Why martial arts?

As a 50 year old, I've come to recognize the benefits, and necessity of physical fitness and good health. While I've tried to remain active, I was ready for a change from my typical gym work outs. The rigor, and discipline of martial arts training offered the challenge I was after. Additionally, my son has been training for many years, and I've witnessed all the positive things it has done for him, beyond just physical fitness. Training together with him has also offered us a unique bonding experience, which is so important between a father and his teenage son.

Why 360 Defense Norwich?

That decision was easy. Having watched my son train at this school for over five years, I've come to recognize what a unique place it is. Sensei McShane has created a environment and a teaching style that motivate students to excel. He does this without intimidation, or being judgmental. No matter what your skill level, he, and all his instructors, provide a supportive and positive atmosphere that make you want to train harder and do better. All that they ask is that you give it your best. Their attitude, coupled with the natural camaraderie amongst the students creates the motivation to push yourself ever higher.

Thanks -

John Kremer
Bozrah, Connecticut

"I'm very glad I found your school and look forward to my future training."

Sensei McShane,

I have to compliment you on the wonderful job you have done in creating 360 Defense Martial Arts in Norwich. As a new student I've been extremely impressed with you, your students and staff. Every student I've worked out with has been gracious and patient in helping me get up to speed with the correct way to perform strikes, hold pads and generally provide great encouragement during my workouts.

You and your instructors are equally impressive. As a certified teacher, I understand the challenge of working with 10-20, or more, students' different personalities, abilities, and motivations. You and your instructors all have the "heart of a teacher", always finding the positives and pushing us to do better. I'm very glad I found your school and look forward to my future training.

Paul Heely
Norwich, CT

"Your program pushed me physically more than anything other
exercise program I have started..."

I just wanted to say thank you again for a great year-and-a-half of training. Your program pushed me physically more than anything other exercise program I have started, and learn a lot about myself (the good and the bad).

The part of your program that I believe sets it apart from most others is the few minutes at the end of class to reflect on the history, stories, and topics you find to encompass a new way of thinking which hopefully leads to some form of self-betterment not only physically buy personally and mentally as well.

Since you spoke of the topic about not letting a failure stop you from a goal, and the student who has taken the Black Belt test twice, I have thought about one of my favorite quotes.

"It is not the critic who counts: not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles or where the doer of deeds could have done better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood, who strives valiantly, who errs and comes up short again and again, because there is no effort without error or shortcoming, but who knows the great enthusiasms, the great devotions, who spends himself for a worthy cause; who, at the best, knows, in the end, the triumph of high achievement, and who, at the worst, if he fails, at least he fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who knew neither victory nor defeat." ~ Teddy Roosevelt

I hope that my new professional path will eventually allow me the time to dedicate myself to the program again.

Thank you again and to all of the Instructors

Kyle Bernard

Brooklyn, CT

"I don't get bored from it like I did with ALL the other workouts I have done..."

I have trained at 360 Defense Norwich for 3 months now. When I first started looking for a school to train at I was a little hesitant. I had never trained in a martial art and at 30 I figured I was too old to start, that most people training had started as kids. I was also unsure as to what art to train. I found 360 Defense online and recognized kickboxing as the striking style most used by MMA fighters and that caught my attention. Also, I had heard of Krav Maga, and as a Correctional Officer, knew that the best, no nonsense type of self defense would probably be what was best for me.

From the "quick start class" I knew right away that I was going to love training at 360 Defense Norwich. The instruction was helpful and I didn't feel like I was "jumping into the deep end." My first class also happened to be the first class for a few other people in my age range, so I was not alone in that regard either.

Not only do I look forward to class every week to learn more, but the work out is great and I don't get bored from it like I did with ALL the other workouts I have done. When it's been a few days since my last class, I can't wait to get to the next one.

Troy Wood
Danielson, CT

"The first thing in a long time that keeps me going back to workout and exercise..."

After years of occasionally considering getting back into martial arts, the Krav Maga and Kickboxing offerings that 360 Defense Martial Arts provides met just what I was looking for (in addition to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu).

The positive culture of the school stands out immediately after joining and is reemphasized in every class. The mix of calisthenics and self-defense gives me workouts that rival anything I've had in the military, with positive reinforcement that acknowledges varying levels of ability.

Besides that, the classes are the first thing in a long time that keeps me going back to workout and exercise, while learning effective martial arts and developing a much stronger desire to continue pursuing self-defense.

Finally, Sensei McShane and all the instructors are always doing their best to improve the curriculum, assist students, and remain concerned for the progress of everybody.

360 Defense has set the bar for martial arts for me as far as what I expect in a quality school with the right culture and attitude.

Dan Gackowski
US Navy

"Learn some self-defense and get the body in shape for Spring when my workload starts."

- Jeff Keefe, GS Flatwork LLC, Uncasville CT

"That was my goal when I first called 360 Defense for a tryout in December 2009. I do concrete construction for a living and keeping in shape is a must for me in the off season and at 46 years old, it was time to make some better habits.

The workouts are way beyond what I was doing on my own and always changing. You will not get bored here. The students are supportive of on another and this pushes you to do more which creates a great workout environment.

Sensei McShane and his assistants are excellent, patient teachers and stress the proper form and technique of each move. I would highly recommend 360 Defense to anyone reading this. You will get in better shape, learn self-defense as were my goals, and something I was not expecting, with the philosophy taught here, perhaps become a better person."

"Don't tell yourself why you shouldn't, ask yourself why haven't you been."

"360 Defense has helped my family build stronger as a group and as individuals. My 6 yo Sonitah is a shy timid little girl but once that uniform is on she is a "ninja in training" her confidence sky rockets and she is ready to go.

Speaking for myself as a 33 y/o man... Training has given me some of the energy I have lost through the years and my health. I haven't felt better in years. The enviroment you are sorrounded with is full of energy and possitive reinforcement. Don't tell yourself why you shouldn't, ask yourself why haven't you been.

Thank you Sensei McShane and 360 Defense Martial Arts.

Shawn Shook
Norwich, Connecticut

The workouts are challenging, fun, and very original.

360 Defense is a great place to test yourself. The workouts are challenging, fun, and very original. If you are a person who likes to work out in a positive environment, 360 Defense Martial Arts is for you.

Matt Frank
New London, CT

Thomas Wilson, 62 years old, Norwich

Frequently Asked Questions:

Is it okay that I have no experience?
Yes. We always have beginners coming in, and we'll show you the kickboxing and Krav Maga basics first so you can comfortably keep up with class.

Sounds pretty intense:
It’s a good, thorough workout, that’s for sure. But my classes have a supportive and fun atmosphere that makes them a great time. No barking drill-instructors here, just a lot of like-minded people achieving their goals together.

Is 360 Defense Martial Arts a Licensed Martial Arts School?
Yes. Our State of Connecticut Health Club License is #HCL.0000754. Many martial arts schools are unlicensed! If this is important to you, make sure you ask at any school you visit.

Can I come watch a class first?
Of course, just call us at 860-889-1818 so we can let you know when the class is.

Will I be getting hit?
Our classes are very SAFE. We use pads, shields, and safety equipment constantly, and the injury rate is VERY low.

I want to compete in Kickboxing/MMA. Do you have a fight team?
No. Competition is not our focus. If you are serious about fighting, check out our friends at Rogers Academy Of Martial Arts or Team Dexter Vale Judo.

If you are competitive, our Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu program might be what you're looking for.

What kind of people get involved in this? Just shaved-head, tattooed MMA guys?
Not at all - we have nurses. Doctors. Police officers. College professors. Physician’s Assistants. Casino workers. College students. Interface Analysts. High School Teachers. House Moms. Engineers. Pipe Fitters. People from all different walks of life benefit from classes at 360 Defense Martial Arts.

Am I Too Old?
Too old to get in shape, learn self-defense, and feel great? Is there an age limit on that? Not that I’ve ever heard of.

Are Classes Co-Ed?
Yes, all of our classes are for men and women. We feel, especially for self-defense, it’s important to work with a variety of partners to promote realistic training. This results in higher confidence in our students, which makes you less of a target.

I have previous injuries.
Does that count me out? No. We can always modify what you do to work around previous injuries, and you’ll NEVER be asked to work through any kind of pain.

How much does it cost?
We have different options to choose from, but most professional martial arts schools in the area charge between 99 and 199 per month. We find ourselves somewhere in the middle.

Is your program right for everyone?
No. Our program is designed for people who are serious about getting in shape and developing confidence. We’re not a sport school. We don’t do tournaments. I don’t train cage-fighters, and our environment is not gym-like. I also don’t teach traditional karate or cardio-kickboxing. If our program isn’t right for you, I’d be more than happy to recommend other programs in the area that would be a better fit.

How Do I Get Started?

Getting started is simple.

Simply fill in your information below, and one of my staff members will get back to you as soon as possible.

At that point, we will schedule you for an Trial Class.

Your Trial Class will let us do two things:

1) It will give you a chance to see exactly how we can help you achieve your goals and how we work with our students,

and…

2) We’ll teach you all the basics you need to comfortably join the group class.

Keep in mind, this Semi-Private Training program is available so we can make sure my program is right for you first. You won’t be committing to anything.

Also, this program is popular right now, and my appointment book fills up fast. The sooner you fill in your info and reserve a spot, the better.

So again, please fill in your info below and be as detailed as you can. I’d like to meet you and find the best way to help you with your goals.

Charlie McShane

Head Instructor
360 Defense Martial Arts LLC
15 Wawecus Street
Norwich, Connecticut 06360
860-889-1818

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without prior written authorization from 360 Defense Martial Arts, LLC.

Most pictures are by Zack Rubin Photography.

Imagine living your life knowing you were expertly trained to deal with any attack, and in better shape than you ever thought possible. Welcome to Krav Maga.