If you’re searching for private MMA training, you’re likely looking for focused, one-to-one instruction rather than large group classes or competition-driven training. Our private sessions offer a personalised approach, allowing you to develop effective skills drawn from multiple martial arts, adapted specifically to your goals.
At Private Self Defence, training is built around real-world application, efficiency, and adaptability, rather than sport rules or point scoring.
What Is Private MMA Training?
MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) combines techniques from different martial arts systems into a single, adaptable approach to combat. We tailor sessions to the individual rather than following a fixed curriculum.
This involves:
- Practical self-defence
- Awareness and movement
- Striking, control, and positioning
- Adaptability under pressure
- Principles over techniques
Martial Arts That Form the Core of Training
My approach to private MMA training draws primarily from three complementary martial arts, each contributing essential skills.
Wing Chun Kung Fu – Close-Range Efficiency

I started learning Wing Chun Kung Fu in 1993 and now teach twice a week at my Martial Arts School in Leeds. Wing Chun forms a major part of my private MMA training approach.
Wing Chun focuses on:
- Close-range striking and defence
- Economy of movement
- Structure and balance
- Sensitivity, timing, and awareness
These principles translate extremely well into MMA-style training, particularly for self-defence scenarios where space is limited and speed matters more than strength.
Kali (Filipino Martial Arts) – Flow, Movement & Adaptability
Knife and machete art, Kali, is a Filipino Martial Art and adds a dynamic and adaptable element to private MMA training.
Kali develops:
- Footwork and mobility
- Hand-eye coordination
- Angle management
- Smooth transitions between techniques
Although traditionally associated with weapons, Kali greatly enhances unarmed training by improving movement, awareness, and reaction speed.
Aikido – Locks, Pin & Throws
Based on the sword principles, Aikido contributes essential skills for control and stability within private MMA training.
Aikido focuses on:
- Balance and posture
- Using an opponent’s force against them
- Joint control and off-balancing
- Staying calm under pressure
These principles are valuable in MMA-style situations, particularly for managing clinch range, maintaining balance, and controlling movement.
Why Choose Private MMA Training Over Group Classes?
Private MMA training offers several advantages over traditional group MMA gyms:
- Training tailored to your goals and experience
- Focus on technique rather than conditioning alone
- No pressure to compete or spar before you’re ready
- Adaptable approach drawing from multiple martial arts
- Faster progress through personalised feedback
This makes private MMA training ideal for beginners, returning martial artists, and those who want effective skills without the sport-only mindset.
Who Is Private the Training For?
Private training is suitable for:
- Adults seeking practical, mixed-style training
- Beginners wanting structured one-to-one instruction
- Martial artists looking to broaden their skill set
- People interested in self-defence rather than competition
- Anyone preferring personal coaching over crowded gyms
Sessions are adapted to your fitness level, experience, and personal objectives.
What to Expect
Private sessions focus on:
- Fundamental movement and balance
- Practical striking and defence
- Transitions between ranges
- Awareness and positioning
- Progressive skill development
Each session combines principles from Wing Chun, Kali, and Aikido, creating a balanced and functional approach to MMA-style training.
Looking for Private MMA Training?
If you’ve been searching for private training and want a personalised, experience-led approach rather than a sport-only system, private training offers a focused and effective solution.
By drawing from Wing Chun Kung Fu, Kali, and Aikido, private sessions provide a practical and adaptable form of mixed martial arts training tailored to the individual.
Get Started
The best way to find out if our sessions are right for you is to get in touch and discuss your goals.
Whether you’re interested in self-defence, confidence, or developing well-rounded martial skills, our training offers a personalised path forward.
👉 Contact Private Self Defence today to learn more

Leave a Reply