Program Overview

This 2-day self-defense course is designed to provide participants with essential knowledge and practical skills to protect themselves from harassment and abuse. Combining both theory and hands-on training, the course covers critical topics such as understanding harassment and abuse phenomena, the role of psychology and anatomy in self-defense, legal support available to victims, and strategic planning to mitigate risks. In addition, participants will learn and practice 21 key self-defense techniques designed for real-world scenarios. By the end of the course, attendees will have a comprehensive understanding of personal safety, enabling them to respond effectively to threats and protect themselves.

Day 1: Knowledge-Based Training

Understanding Harassment and Abuse Phenomena (1 hour)

The course begins by exploring the different types of harassment and abuse, including verbal, physical, emotional, and sexual abuse. Participants will learn how to recognize early warning signs and the behaviors that often lead to these threats. Understanding these patterns is key to preventing situations from escalating. This session emphasizes the unique challenges faced by women and marginalized individuals in dealing with harassment, particularly in contexts where cultural and societal factors may exacerbate the risks.

Legal Support for Victims (1 hour)

Knowing the legal framework that protects victims of harassment and abuse is empowering. In this session, participants will be introduced to their legal rights, how to report incidents, and the steps needed to file complaints with law enforcement or relevant authorities. The module also covers protective orders, evidence collection, and other legal remedies available to victims. This section is designed to ensure participants know how to navigate the legal system confidently if they ever face harassment or abuse.

The Role of Psychology in Self-Defense (1 hour)

Psychological preparedness is a critical component of self-defense. In this session, participants will learn how to manage fear, anxiety, and stress during confrontational situations. The focus will also be on building confidence and assertiveness, helping participants establish personal boundaries and respond firmly to threats. Understanding the psychology of aggressors is another key element, as it helps participants anticipate an attacker’s behavior and respond effectively. Mental resilience and quick decision-making are emphasized as important aspects of handling high-pressure situations.

The Role of Anatomy in Self-Defense (1 hour)

Anatomy plays an essential role in self-defense, as understanding the body’s vulnerable points can give participants a significant advantage. This module teaches the participants about key areas such as the eyes, throat, groin, and knees, which are most effective when targeted during self-defense. The focus will be on using minimal effort to maximize impact, making these techniques accessible to individuals of all physical strengths and sizes. Participants will learn how to leverage their knowledge of anatomy to quickly neutralize threats.

Strategic Planning Against Harassment and Abuse (1 hour)

Preventing harassment and abuse begins with strategic planning. Participants will learn how to assess their surroundings, identify risks, and develop proactive strategies to avoid potentially dangerous situations. The course will also cover situational awareness techniques and how to stay alert to potential threats in everyday environments. Verbal de-escalation techniques will be taught to help participants defuse conflicts before they escalate into physical altercations. This proactive approach is a crucial aspect of self-defense, as it helps avoid confrontations altogether.

Day 1 & 2: Practical Self-Defense Training

Physical Self-Defense Training: 21 Techniques (11 hours)

The core of the 2-day course is hands-on self-defense training, where participants will learn 21 effective self-defense techniques. These techniques are designed to be simple and easy to remember in high-stress situations. Participants will practice strikes, kicks, blocks, and escapes that target vulnerable points on the attacker’s body. Scenarios will cover a range of possible threats, including defense against grabs, chokes, and standing or ground confrontations. The training is focused on real-world application, ensuring that participants leave the course with practical, adaptable techniques they can use in everyday situations.

Conclusion

This 2-day self-defense course offers a fast-paced yet comprehensive introduction to self-defense, combining critical theoretical knowledge with practical skills. By the end of the course, participants will be equipped with the tools they need to recognize, avoid, and respond to threats of harassment and abuse. Through a blend of psychological preparedness, strategic planning, and physical defense techniques, attendees will leave empowered to protect themselves and others in real-world situations.