{"id":116241,"date":"2026-01-29T12:09:24","date_gmt":"2026-01-29T12:09:24","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-ny\/116241\/"},"modified":"2026-01-29T12:09:24","modified_gmt":"2026-01-29T12:09:24","slug":"confidence-courage-safety-how-a-staten-island-self-defense-program-is-helping-new-yorkers","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-ny\/116241\/","title":{"rendered":"Confidence, courage, safety: How a Staten Island self-defense program is helping New Yorkers"},"content":{"rendered":"

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. \u2014 Operating on the principle of \u201cPeace through Strength,\u201d Chai Defense \u2014 a Staten Island-based self-defense program focused on teaching reality-based physical and mental skills \u2014 was founded not only to provide instruction and training, but also to create a community of trust, encouragement, and accountability.<\/p>\n

\u201cLiving in a city like New York, residents can find themselves in unexpected and unpleasant situations when they\u2019re least expecting it, so learning the physical and mental strategies are vital to their safety,\u201d noted Lawrence Yakobzon, who helped found the program. <\/p>\n

\"ThisThe Staten Island-based self-defense program focuses on teaching reality-based physical and mental skills.(Courtesy of Chai Defense)<\/p>\n

\u201cPortions of our program are also dedicated to situational awareness, providing students with important tips of why it\u2019s essential to remain alert and aware of their surroundings, such as when commuting on public transportation. Attackers typically strike those who are most vulnerable, so we always stress the importance of limiting distractions.\u201d<\/p>\n

Yakobzon noted that the program was originally launched in November 2023 in response to a rise in violence against Jewish communities and was designed to equip its members with practical self-defense skills, including physical and conceptual training as well as self-defense mindset techniques. <\/p>\n

Pronounced \u201cHigh Defense,\u201d the program recently partnered with the Joan & Alan Bernikow JCC of Staten Island, located at 1466 Manor Rd., and is open to all non-JCC members as well as JCC members ages 13 and older.<\/p>\n

\"ThisThe program is open to all non-JCC members as well as JCC members ages 13 and older.(Courtesy of Chai Defense)<\/p>\n

Yakobzon said the program, which is deeply rooted in Krav Maga, is created for those who have little to no experience with self-defense or martial arts, and it is designed to use practical movements and techniques to help remove members from an unwarranted situation when possible and to defend when necessary, without weapons or other equipment. <\/p>\n

\u201cMany of our founders have backgrounds in high level martial arts, including Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, karate, kickboxing, and Krav Maga,\u201d Yakobzon said. \u201cBut our program teaches more than safety \u2014 it helps students build confidence, courage, and character.\u201d <\/p>\n

Chai Defense is currently running a special for new members: $99 for the first month and $119 for JCC members or $129 for non-JCC members thereafter. Discounts are available for military, veterans, college students, first responders, and families. Yakobzon also offers seminars to schools, workplaces, and houses of worship.<\/p>\n

\"ThisDiscounts are available for military, veterans, college students, first responders, and families. Chai Defense also offers seminars to schools, workplaces, and houses of worship.(Courtesy of Chai Defense)<\/p>\n

\u201cOur self-defense classes offer the practical tools that anyone, especially teens who endure bullying, can use to protect themselves and boost their confidence,\u201d he concluded. \u201cWhen we observe the growth of each member while improving their techniques from one class to the next, it\u2019s the most rewarding feeling. We also have a few families who train together, so we\u2019re incredibly grateful to watch their bonds develop while learning these critical skills together.\u201d <\/p>\n

New Businesses in Focus is a column that tells the stories of new Staten Island business owners. If you run a new business on Staten Island and would like to be featured, e-mail jgorman@siadvance.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Chai Defense at a Glance<\/p>\n

Address: Joan & Alan Bernikow JCC of Staten Island, 1466 Manor Rd., 10314<\/p>\n

Phone: 929-277-1863<\/p>\n

Website: www.chaidefense.com<\/a><\/p>\n

Social Media: Facebook<\/a> | Instagram<\/a> | YouTube<\/a><\/p>\n