London killings spark surge in women's self-defence classes in UK

Participants practice their moves during a self defence class in south London. Photos: AFP

On a dark autumn evening, first-timers arriving for self-defence classes at Urban Fit and Fearless are asked if they have had any past traumas before they start training.

After a series of high-profile murders of women in London in Britain in recent months, the number of young female participants joining the class is high.