About MSDA
Who We Are
Built for the Realities of Today
Modern Self Defense Academy (MSDA) is a self-defense academy built for the realities of today. We focus on practical movement, balance, and skill development to help people stay safe, respond effectively, and build real preparedness through consistent practice.
Why MSDA
Most People Think Self Defense is About Fighting.
In reality, it's about making decisions under pressure.
The modern world presents challenges that go beyond physical confrontation. Situations unfold quickly, involve other people, and often carry consequences. What you do, and how you do it, matters.
Under pressure, people don't rise to what they know. They fall back on what they've practiced.
MSDA focuses on developing the following practical skills
Meet the Coaches
Al Bahabri
Founder & Head Instructor
A lifelong martial artist with over 20 years of training experience and several years of instructional experience. His experience across multiple disciplines informs a practical, movement-based approach to self-defense focused on real-world application, emphasizing safety, control, and the development of applicable skills under real conditions.
A background in psychology further informs this approach, particularly in understanding how people perceive, respond, and adapt under stress, and how skills are learned and applied in real-world conditions.
Training History
Began training in Shotokan Karate - discipline, structure, and movement.
Expanded into Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) training in Saudi Arabia.
Continued development in Muay Thai and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu at the University of Guelph.
Began Judo training at Kohbukan Sisu Judo & Jiu Jitsu Club.
Began instructing Judo and continues to teach and refine these principles.
Certifications
- Certified Self Defense Instructor, Self Defense Solutions
- First Aid & CPR/AED (Level C)
