A dwarf Sussex grad has set up self-defence classes for other dwarfs

We live in dangerous times and many people learn self-defence like Jiu Jitsu, Karate, and Thai Boxing to stay safe. 

Now a Sussex grad with dwarfism has created a unique fighting style for other dwarfs like him, called “Self Protection for Dwarfs”.

Eugene Grant, 28, based his own programme on Israeli martial art Krav Maga and is specially adapted for people with different kinds of dwarfism.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c5gkY-oCIjg

He said: “Something like Taekwondo is completely inappropriate for someone with small legs.

“There’s no point trying to kick someone in the head who’s six feet tall when you’re only four foot six.

“Our ethos is to take whatever works and adapt it.”

Eugene created the fighting style with martial arts expert Kelina Cowell after he was attacked as a student by a tall man.

He said: “What people with dwarfism, people like me, really need is a self-defence system designed for our body types and the sorts of threats and assaults (being grabbed, picked up, bear hugged, and so on) which, sadly, some of face all too often in our daily lives.”

He wants society to change how it treats people with dwarfism – but until then his programme can help dwarfs suffering from abuse about their size.

The programme says it is not just about self-defence but it helps to build confidence and awareness of surroundings.

Eugene added: “Urban Warriors Self Protection for Dwarfs is a serious step forward to helping people with dwarfism be better prepared to look after and defend themselves in times of crisis; to learn new skills and grow as individuals and as a community; and to build our self-awareness, self-esteem, and self-confidence.”

Find out more about Self Protection for Dwarfs here.