Charlie Robinson has taught different aspects of self-defense to Yuba College students for nearly two decades, while interest has waned in recent years. During the spring semester, only 45 students have enrolled in the two self-defense classes offered on campus.Robinson cites two reasons for the decline in enrollment. “A lot of young people just don’t care,” said Robinson. “Many are unaware of the class too.”Students in the self-defense class learn techniques to promote their own safety. Robinson says his classes are designed to reduce or eliminate the effects of accidents or violence, and have two important purposes. One purpose is teaching students ways to avoid becoming a victim or having to use self-defense in the first place.”We do a lot of things out of habit, and there are people out there who watch, like stalkers,” said Robinson. “Changing habits can keep us safe.”Robinson also advises students to trust their instincts and avoid going out at night or to unfamiliar places alone. He said that we should always be able to enter and exit our vehicles rapidly and safely.”Never park next to or between vans,” Robinson advised. “Visually inspect the interior of your car before you get in, and have the keys ready before you get to your car.”The second purpose of Robinson’s classes is teaching the self-defense moves that can stop an attacker.”I teach defenses against grabbing, striking and choking,” said Robinson. “We also do a lot of fighting on the ground.”A person can legally defend himself or herself with necessary force. “That means you can not become the assailant,” Robinson warns. “Do not react. Respond.”Students take Robinson’s course for a variety of reasons, ranging from an interest in self-defense and martial arts to a desire to learn how to stay safe.”I want to be able to protect myself in a short period of time,” said student, Eugene Burawa. “I want to be able to take control.”Mike Steele, a student who lives in Linda and is concerned about the increase in gang activity there, says he has already used the self-defense techniques several times.”I was able to stop two guys who were trying to rob me in Marysville a few weeks ago,” said Steele. “One even had a knife.”Steele encouraged students to sign up for Mr. Robinson’s self defense class.”You learn a lot of awareness techniques and ideas for defending yourself.” Robinson has taught in the Yuba-Sutter area since 1960. He has a 7-degree Black Belt in Judo, which he has taught since 1956, and a 5-degree Black Belt in Jujitsu, which he has taught since 1940. Classes are offered through the P.E. department.
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