Springville Road Regional Library to Host Free Self-Defense Workshop on August 4

 

What: How to Make It Back Home: An Introduction to Self-Defense
When: Tuesday, August 4, 2026 @3 – 4 p.m.
Where:  Springville Road Regional Branch Library
1224 Springville Road, Birmingham, AL 35215
Details: In this free workshop, instructor Zyon Thomas will teach participants how to be aware of their surroundings and basic self-defense techniques if attacked by someone. For more info, call (205) 226-4083 or drop by Springville Road Regional Library during library hours.

Springville Road Regional Library to Host Free Self-Defense Workshop on August 4

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – Knowing how to recognize danger and respond in an emergency can make all the difference. The Birmingham Public Library is inviting the public to attend a free self-defense workshop designed to help participants improve their personal safety and confidence.

"How to Make It Back Home: An Introduction to Self-Defense" will take place on Tuesday, August 4, from 3 to 4 p.m. at the Springville Road Regional Branch Library.

The one-hour workshop will be led by Zyon Thomas, an intern at Springville Road Regional Library, collegiate wrestler and amateur boxer who has spent the past three years studying self-defense techniques.

Participants will learn practical skills, including:

• Situational and surrounding awareness
• Basic self-defense techniques
• Proper punching form and striking fundamentals
• An overview of common self-defense tools and their effectiveness

Thomas said he wanted to share his knowledge to help others feel more prepared and confident in everyday situations.

"My goal is to help people stay safe," Thomas said. "I want participants to leave with a better understanding of how to recognize potential danger, avoid risky situations when possible, and know basic techniques that could help them protect themselves if necessary."

Thomas, 19, is a college sophomore who wrestled competitively for many years and currently competes as an amateur boxer with a 4-0 record. His background in wrestling and boxing inspired him to develop a class focused on practical safety skills that anyone can begin learning.

The workshop is free and open to the public. No prior self-defense experience is required.

For more information, call the Springville Road Regional Branch Library at (205) 226-4083.

Written by Roy L. Williams, Public Relations Specialist -Birmingham Public Library