How to Join a Women's Self-Defense Class

For the college student, the city dweller, the late-night commuter and any other woman who has ever looked over her shoulder twice or gotten a creepy feeling about someone, a self-defense class is a great way to get empowered. Self-defense classes come in many different formats, but overall each one gives you techniques and strategies to help avoid dangerous situations and protect yourself in the event things escalate.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Find classes being offered in your area. For starters, check online or talk to your local YMCA or YWCA. Also, call the campus security offices of colleges in your area. Local martial-arts schools may also offer classes for women.
2. Decide what kind of class you'd prefer. If you're interested in really gaining confidence, developing skills over time and getting a workout, martial-arts courses are probably your best option. For those who want some tips and strategies but don't have a lot of time to invest, a short weekend workshop or a class that meets a few nights a week would be better.
3. Make inquiries about the course instructors. Find out their qualifications, and whether the course offers not only physical strategies but also verbal tactics and avoidance.
4. Be bold. When you begin a class, you may feel a bit hesitant about jabbing, poking, pinching and stomping, but realize it's necessary to get comfortable being forceful if you're to stand a chance against an attacker.
5. Refresh often. Taking one class once isn't enough. Every few years, visit a different class to refresh your skills and help solidify the techniques in your mind so that they become automatic when you need them.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear comfy workout clothes to class. You'll be moving quite a bit and may even break a sweat.