Frequently Asked
Questions

Yes. Self Defence training can increase your options and help you prepare responses to slow down, de-escalate, or interrupt an attack. Like any tool, the more you know about it, the more informed you are to make a decision and to use it.

No. There are no guarantees when it comes to Self-protection. However, Self-Defence training can increase your choices and your preparedness.

No. There are many formats for training. They may be as short as two hours or as long as 8 weeks or a semester. Whatever the length of the program, it should be based on maximizing options, simple techniques, and respect for women's experience.

Only you can answer this question. Find out about the philosophy of the program and the background of the instructor. Observe a class session if you can, and talk to an instructor or a student. Is the instructor knowledgeable and respectful of your concerns? Is it a length that you can commit to and at a cost that you can afford? You deserve to have all your questions answered before taking a class.

There is an advantage to having a female instructor as a role model and who has similar experiences surviving as a woman. All-woman classes tend to provide an easier atmosphere in which to discuss sensitive issues. On the other hand, some women feel having male partners to practice with can add to their experience. The quality of a class depends on the knowledge, attitude and philosophy of the instructor, not necessarily on gender. The most important aspect is that the instructor, male or female, conducts the training for the students geared to their individual strengths and abilities. Feeling safe and building trust comes before learning.

No. A basic course can offer enough concepts and skills to help you develop Self-protection strategies that you can continue to build upon. Self-Defence is not karate or martial arts training. It does not require years of study to perfect. There are women who have successfully improvised and prevented an assault and never have taken a class. Women often practice successful Self-Defence strategies without knowing it!

The question to answer first is what does "hurt worse" mean? Rape survivors speak eloquently about emotional hurts lasting long after physical hurts heal. Studies show a physical Self-Defence response does not increase the level of injury, and sometimes decreases the likelihood. Also, women going along with the attacker have sometimes been brutally injured anyway. The point of using Self-Defence is to de-escalate a situation and get away as soon as possible. Knowing some physical techniques increases the range of possible Self-Defence options, but the decision to choose a physical option must remain with the person in the situation.

Words like "most realistic," "best," "guaranteed success," etc. are all advertising gimmicks. Choosing a Self-Defence class is a serious decision and is preferably based on some research. No program or instructor can replicate a "real" assault since there are so many different scenarios, and because a real attack would require a no-holds-barred fight which would be irresponsible and extremely dangerous to enact. Responsible Self-Defence training requires control. It is important that each student in a class is able to control her own participation in the class and never feels forces to participate.

Any device is useless to you unless you understand how to use it, and you have it in your hand ready to use at the time of the attempted assault. There is nothing "guaranteed" about any of these devices. None are foolproof. None of them can be counted on to work against all possible attackers (no matter what the labeling may state to the contrary). Realize that anything you can use against an attacker can also be taken away and used against you. While some of these devices have sometimes helped women to escape to safety, it is important to be aware of their limitations and liabilities.

You don't have to be an athlete to learn how to defend yourself. A good program is designed to adapt to every age and ability and provides each student with the opportunity to learn. Each individual is unique and students should be able to discuss their own needs. Some programs have specialized classes for specific groups.

A good course covers critical thinking about Self-Defence strategies, assertiveness, powerful communication skills, and easy-to-remember physical techniques. The instructor respects and responds to your fears and concerns. Instruction is based on a belief that women can act competently, decisively, and take action for their own protection. Essentially, a good course is based on intelligence and not muscle. It offers tools for enabling a woman to connect with her own strength and power. These courses are out there. Good luck in your research. Taking a Self-Defence class is one of the most positive acts a woman can do for herself!