Self Defence by QSSC x Maren Forsberg

by Sweaty Social Club

Self-defense isn't about aggression—it's about empowerment. It's about having choices and knowing how to use them. While standing up for yourself and others can be challenging, we believe the right tools empower us to care for ourselves and each other. Above all, we all deserve to feel safe.

About the facilitator

Maren Forsberg, in collaboration with QSSC, will facilitate this self-defense course at Praxis (Hausmania). With over 10 years of experience in various martial arts, Maren is passionate about making self-defense accessible and practical for everyone. She actively creates spaces where people can feel stronger and more confident in their own bodies.

Statistics show that Queer, Trans and BIPOC folks face higher rates of harassment, threats, and violence. This course is built around the experiences of our community, focusing on strengthening ourselves and our response patterns in situations that may feel/be unsafe.

Our Space

QSSC is an inclusive international community centered around queer and trans folks of all genders (18+). Allies welcome! You are invited exactly as you are—the only expectation we have is that you meet yourself and others with respect, empathy, and openness to learn. These courses center the queer and trans experience, so active listening is essential to creating the healthy space we build together. All discussions and personal sharing remain confidential to create a safe container for learning and growth.

We acknowledge that self-defense work can sometimes be triggering. You're encouraged to take proactive steps for your wellbeing by preparing supportive tools for before, during, and after the course. Examples of helpful tools might include grounding techniques, comfort items, specific breathing exercises, or coping strategies that work for you. Our facilitators are NOT trained in trauma-informed approaches but bring in their own personal experiences in the space and are here to provide additional grounding support. They will actively check in about needs throughout our time together.

What to Expect

Move your body with confidence • Learn escape techniques that feel empowering • Use your voice as an expressive tool • Connect with your body's natural rhythm in movement • Discover the capabilities you never knew you had • We believe self-defense skills should be empowering AND enjoyable - so expect a mix of serious practice and lighthearted fun!

About the workshop:

Each session offers a comprehensive introduction to self defense, combining boundary-setting, voice work, verbal de-escalation, and physical self-defense techniques.

Together, we’ll focus on:

- Carrying yourself with confidence
- Using your voice effectively
- Recognizing and responding to boundary-overstepping
- Escaping common grabs and holds
- Defense against physical threats and violence
- Responding fast under pressure

Rather than covering as many techniques as possible, these workshops prioritize depth, realism, and repetition — helping key skills feel more natural and accessible under stress.

Participation

Each workshop is fully standalone, so you’re welcome to join either one independently.

However, you're warmly encouraged to attend both sessions, as repetition is one of the most important aspects of self defense training. Revisiting the material can help deepen confidence, strengthen muscle memory, and further embody the tools we practice. No prior experience necessary - come exactly as you are!

Both dates will present similar information + exercises focused on de-escalation and preventative self defense.
No prior experience necessary—come as you are!

What to Bring

Comfortable clothing
Water bottle
Warm socks or anti slip socks (no shoes allowed in the space)
Any grounding practices / items that help you feel safe

Practical Information

• Age: 18+ only
• Accessibility: Location is not wheelchair accessible and on the 4th floor
• Registration: Space is limited—register via the link at the bottom and pay promptly
• Tickets: Non-refundable

Registration & Sliding fee scale

https://cryptpad.fr/form/#/2/form/view/7orIbJUD-k…

To keep this space accessible, we offer a sliding scale. Please select the price that feels sustainable for you — paying the standard price helps support lower-cost tickets for others.

Tickets
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Single date:
Standard: 250kr
Reduced: 150kr
Community (5 tickets available): 50kr

Both dates:
Standard: 400kr
Reduced: 200kr
Community (5 tickets available): 100kr

VIPPS: 8444UN Sweaty Social Club
Mark which date/s you are paying for.

For more about Maren, follow @marenforsberg on Instagram, and be sure to follow us @qsscoslo for updates

About Location

Praxis Oslo studio is located in Himmelrommet at Hausmania kulturhus

To access the studio, please enter through the back gate behind Vega

Upcoming dates

Location

Praxis Oslo
Vestre Elvebakke 10
0182 Oslo