Rape Aggression Defense Course Coming to Syracuse

The R.A.D. (Rape Aggression Defense) course is coming to the CNY Filipino Martial Arts Academy in Syracuse.

According to Syracuse.com, the three-day seminar — which is open to women ages 13 and up — teaches basic self-defense tactics and techniques at various locations throughout the United States and Canada.

“Everything is extremely basic,” said Kathleen Willard, the class’s instructor and owner of Empowering U Self-Defense. “None of the kicks are higher than a groin kick. If there’s any move a woman can’t do, we modify it.”

Willard says the class is ideal for young women who are going off to college and will be away from home for the first time.

“We do a section on staying safe while drinking, using the buddy system, date rape and risk awareness,” Willard said. “We try to keep it light because it’s such a serious subject. Then we get into the blocking and punching.”

As Syracuse.com reports, the class can accommodate 15-20 people and is suitable for all fitness levels. The three-day class is $100 and cash, checks and credit cards are accepted.

“If someone can’t afford it, we don’t turn anyone away,” Willard said. “We accept donations too. It’s more important to us that people learn self defense.”

The class is set for July 23, 30 and August 6 from 5:30-9:30 p.m.