I have been a big fan of the cane as a self-defense option ever since I began to explore the possibilities while recovering from an accident some years ago. In my search for instructional materials on the cane I have viewed a fair number of videos purporting to teach a method of self-defense. Many of them have a martial arts orientation, incorporating techniques that to the beginner can seem dauntingly complex and difficult to execute. Fancy moves that require years of practice on the mat are likely to vanish from memory under the highly stressful conditions of an actual assault. Although such “complete” systems can be quite good, they are not suitable for the ordinary person who is looking for a few powerful moves that can be quickly and easily acquired. Kelly Worden’s simple and street-effective method can be learned in a short time and put to use immediately by anyone, regardless of age and level of fitness. (I am 72 years old, & I can easily perform all the moves shown on the discs.) Mr. Worden’s instruction will give you confidence, a good base for further training, and the inspiration to further develop your skills. Purchase this set and get started!

This review may come off a little biased since I’ve known Kelly Worden for over 30 years, back when he was a tough Karate fighter and competitor, and later when I studied Arnis with him in the early 80s. Kelly’s the REAL DEAL and his wealth of knowledge in combined martial arts (he is a Filipino Stick & Knife Fighting Master) only makes what he offers on the DVD something more to listen to and seriously consider. He speaks of Defensive tactics with a cane as a useful weapon with authority and not something he just picked up in a Karate or Tae Kwon Do class as a way to achieve another colored belt but with DECADES of Arnis/Escrima/Kali and JKD practice. He has studied with the best and it shows, which is how he has achieved his prominent place in the Martial Arts community as well as the military community, earning high praise from the Special Forces. So like I said I’m a little biased about his skills and fighting prowess.
While this two DVD set covers ten essential fighting techniques (in repetition to drill the techniques into your practice and thus enhancing a memory device) he also covers some other useful considerations; i.e.- foot traps, distancing, flow, legal ramifications,etc. The price is well worth what you’ll take away from the DVDs and is worth every penny, if you only ever need to rely on one or two of the techniques in a real defensive situation.
Finally, as a former contributing editor to several national martial arts publications I have seen many martial artists come and go. Those, like Datu Kelly Worden, who stay with it, are the ones that make all the difference. Check out kellyworden.com