Business & Tech

Ask the Expert: Learn Self-Defense Basics

Martial arts instructor Cliffton Paul and Patch invite you to attend a free program.

From his work as a police officer to his martial arts expertise, Cliffton Paul is dedicated to keeping citizens safe.

“As a police officer, it makes sense. I know what kinds of attacks happen. It was an easy transition for me,” he said, explaining how he went from earning his black belt in tae kwon do in 1998 to becoming a certified CDT instructor in 2003.

CDT, which stands for compliance, direction and takedown, is a method of self-defense that requires minimal force.

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“We don’t teach fist fighting or anything because nobody wins,” Paul said.

Patch is teaming with Paul for an “Ask the Expert” program next month. Community members are invited to attend the free event, which will begin at 6 p.m. April 13 at .

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The 30-minute session will be part lecture, part demonstration.

“I’ll give them a couple of moves they can remember,” Paul said.

Guests will also receive Patch giveaways and have a chance to win a free self-defense class taught by Paul, who periodically runs programs in Buffalo Grove, Libertyville and Gurnee.

The event will be geared toward the safety of adult women, but the entire community is invited to attend. 

There is no dress code — “People have to be prepared to defend themselves no matter what they’re wearing,” Paul said — but attendees are asked not to wear high heels, which can damage the floor mats. 

To RSVP, please email Noel Hennessy at noel.hennessy@patch.com.


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