This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Community Corner

New Self Defense Class Available for the Entire Family

The Dedham Masters of Self Defense Center in Oakdale Square teaches traditional kenpo-karate, but also offers self-defense classes for women.


Back in March of 2013, Eric Sargent and his wife Maureen stood on Cedar Street in Oakdale Square and took a deep breath. The couple was preparing to open a “new business” here in town.

Eric has studied the martial arts since 1995 and began teaching over a decade ago. Having lived here in Dedham for the past 18 years, the couple saw the opportunity to pursue the dream of opening their own business.  

As many of us know, especially in this shaky economy, the success rate of starting a business is a risky venture. Reports from the Small Business Association (SBA) do however, show signs of promise.

New business owners are encouraged to seek ways to be innovative, to be more efficient, and to make themselves do things differently. Competition, no matter what your venture, will always be tough.

If you are able to find a “niche”, have a positive attitude, be honest and fair, and have enthusiasm and passion, then you stand a chance to succeed.   Eric Sargent took all of these things in to consideration before “taking the plunge.” He has always wanted to open his own business, and when he spotted the space available in Oakdale Square, he knew he was ready.

A unique feature about the Dedham Masters of Self Defense Center – joining existing studios in Braintree, Franklin and Wakefield – is the focus on private and semi-private classes. The economical, affordable, family-oriented classes allow Eric to focus on each student.

Eric believes in the philosophy that the Masters of Self Defense offers, and knew he could share his passion with the folks here in Dedham.

The school teaches traditional kenpo-karate, but also offers self-defense classes for women.  

The couple recently added an intro to mixed martial arts for teens class. There are plans to have an after school program to work with even the youngest students in town. But rest assured, there is nothing to intimidate anyone here. Eric takes his time and works with his students without the formality of wearing a gi and earning belts. His goal is to pass along his knowledge to each and every member of the family.  

 The self-defense course has been the talk of moms around the neighborhood, and the convenience of choosing your own time to work out and learn with friends has really made a difference. Eric Sargent has his 2nd degree black belt and is adept at breaking down the basic mechanics of each move, allowing you to master it and apply it to a given situation.

As for “finding his niche”, the father of three believes that the opportunity to train and learn with family and friends will certainly help. People of all ages will benefit from these private classes.  

 To find out more, stop by the Masters of Self-Defense Center at 63 Cedar St. in Oakdale Square in Dedham or give them a call at 781-366-0631. Congratulations and best of luck here in Dedham!

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?