The next course co-sponsored by Friends of Newtown Seniors and the town's Commission on Aging will be "Self-Defense for Seniors (Easy, Progressive, Practical)." A grant is making it possible for the course to be offered free of charge.a Krav Maga class the Friends recently offered.info@friendsofnewtownseniors.org.

Self-Defense for Seniors is a six-week course that will offer students "self-defense-based exercise methods designed specifically for senior citizens interested in preserving the safety and wellness of themselves and those they love," according to information from Friends of Newtown Seniors.

Friends of Newtown Seniors Chairman John Boccuzzi said this class has a different emphasis than

"We're hoping to attract people who are maybe less physically able to defend themselves, a little more frail, and teach them how they can best send off a problem should it arise," said Mr Boccuzzi. "Again, you want to avoid trouble, and avoid situations where you need to do anything physical, but should a need arise, here's how to defend yourself, how to use what's at your disposal, like a cane, to defend yourself."

Mr Boccuzzi said the self-defense class will also build on the same theme of increased confidence for those who participate.

Certified personal trainer Ari Friedman will be leading this course. Mr Friedman has 20-plus years of martial arts and self-defense experience, as well as more than a decade in the heath and wellness field.

He specializes in senior health, functional movement, and medically monitored fitness.

Self-Defense for Seniors will meet Tuesday and Thursdays at 1 pm.

The first two sessions, April 11 and 13, will be at Sunshine Health & Fitness, where Mr Friedman is on staff. The health and fitness center is within the SBC Building at 153 South Main Street.

The remaining four sessions, April 18-27, will then be conducted at 123 South Main Street, in the new location for Sunshine Health & Fitness.

"It just so happens that they will be moving during the same time we will be offering this class," Mr Boccuzzi said. "We'll start in one location, and just move with him."

For additional information or to register, contact Friends of Newtown Seniors at