Baltimore School of Self Defense

Specialties

We offer training in traditional martial arts — Ju-​Jitsu (Japanese-​style, not Brazilian), Karate, and Kung Fu. Youth classes and adult classes are available. We even have self defense classes for those who just want to learn some basic techniques to help them defend themselves. We also have an ACE-​certified personal trainer on staff to help you achieve your personal fitness and nutrition goals.

History

Established in 2014.

The dojo got its start operating through local YMCA’s. That’s where the current owner started his training back in 1985 under Sensei Jim Howard. Somewhere around 1990, Sensei Jim had to relocate and Sensei Wade Susie took over the role as head instructor. Sensei Wade continued to teach until 2013, when he decided to retire. Sensei Wade asked Sensei Will Harris to take over as the lead instructor, and Sensei Will humbly accepted.

After teaching at the Ward Y in Harford County for about a year, Sensei Will had a desire to run more classes than the Y could accommodate. It was then that Sensei Will founded Baltimore School of Self Defense, LLC. We have been operating in our current location since October 2014, offering youth and adult classes in several different styles of martial arts.

Meet the Business Owner

Will H.

Business Owner

Sensei Harris has been studying martial arts for nearly 30 years. He got his start by tagging along with his older brother who had become interested in trying out a ju-​jitsu class at the local Y. Life’s obligations took his brother in different directions and away from the class, but sensei continued his training, ultimately earning his shodan (1^st degree black belt) under Sensei Jim Howard, who had had received his training from Sensei William Fromm. Professor Fromm along with Professor George Kirby, founded Budoshin Ju-​Jitsu.

Sensei Will Harris continued his training and progressed through the ranks to his current rank of shichidan (7^th degree blackbelt) under Sensei Wade Susie.

Throughout his martial arts career, Sensei Harris has competed in and judged competitions too numerous to list. He has also attended and taken part in numerous seminars and learned from a multitude of masters of various styles of martial arts.