Overview

The 天涯海角社区 Police Department, in partnership with the Alachua County Sheriff鈥檚 Office, is proud to offer the Rape Aggression Defense (R.A.D.) Self Defense Training Program and the Self-defense Awareness and Familiarization Exchange (S.A.F.E.) Program. These empowering self-defense courses are designed exclusively for women, providing practical tools to navigate real-world threats. Founded by a former campus police officer, R.A.D. is now taught at colleges and universities nationwide. Its mission? "To develop and enhance self-defense options, making them viable considerations for any woman under attack." The program鈥檚 success stems from its straightforward, effective tactics, research-backed approach, legal defensibility, and unique teaching style.

What Makes R.A.D. Different?

Imagine facing a sudden, violent attack鈥攜our instincts kick in. Research shows most people naturally want to resist. R.A.D. taps into that instinct, equipping women with the knowledge to make smart, split-second decisions about resistance. We explore the "Fight or Flight Syndrome" and show why physical defense isn鈥檛 just an option鈥攊t鈥檚 a necessity for effective resistance.

Unlike traditional self-defense courses, R.A.D. goes beyond punches and kicks. It鈥檚 a holistic system that starts with awareness, prevention, and risk reduction before building into hands-on training. This isn鈥檛 martial arts鈥攊t鈥檚 real-world readiness. Whether the threat comes from a stranger or someone you know, R.A.D. prepares you with practical strategies and confidence.

The course unfolds in three dynamic sections, led by certified law enforcement instructors:

• Classroom Foundations: A discussion-based session with a workbook/reference manual (yours to keep!) outlining the entire program.
• Decision-Making: Explore confrontation scenarios, your options, and how to choose whether to resist鈥攑lus why that choice matters.
• Hands-On Skills: Master stances, yelling, movement, blocking, escapes, and a range of defense techniques.

Looking for a shorter introduction? Check out the S.A.F.E. Program, a two-hour course on awareness and basic self-defense.

Best of all? R.A.D. is free, though space is limited to ensure top-quality instruction.

How to Register

• For R.A.D. Classes: Complete the registration form on our R.A.D. registration page. Provide your name, email, phone number, and select your preferred class dates.

Upcoming R.A.D. Classes

R.A.D. is a multi-session course鈥攁ttendance at all classes in your chosen series is required. To maintain safety and quality, each session has a capacity limit. If a class fills up, waitlist options are available. Check back each semester for new dates!

R.A.D. vs. S.A.F.E.: Which Self-Defense Program is Right for You?

At 天涯海角社区 Police Department, in partnership with the Alachua County Sheriff鈥檚 Office, we offer two empowering self-defense programs designed exclusively for women: R.A.D. (Rape Aggression Defense) and S.A.F.E. (Self-defense Awareness and Familiarization Exchange). Both programs equip you with tools to stay safe, but they differ in focus, duration, and approach. Here鈥檚 a clear breakdown to help you choose:

R.A.D. (Rape Aggression Defense)

• What It Is: A comprehensive self-defense course teaching practical, research-backed physical techniques to counter real-world threats.
• Duration: Multi-session program (typically 9-12 hours over several days).
• Focus: Hands-on training in effective self-defense tactics, including simulations to build confidence and muscle memory. It emphasizes both mental and physical preparedness.
• Key Features:
  • Straightforward, legally defensible techniques.
  • Scenario-based practice for real-world application.
  • Founded by a former campus police officer, taught nationwide.
• Best For: Women seeking in-depth, physical self-defense training to feel confident in high-risk situations.

S.A.F.E. (Self-defense Awareness and Familiarization Exchange)

• What It Is: A concise educational program focused on crime-victim prevention and personal safety awareness.
• Duration: A single 2-hour session.
• Focus: Mental preparedness, practical safety strategies, and an introduction to basic self-defense concepts. It emphasizes reducing the risk of violence through proactive measures.
• Key Features:
  • Practical tips for daily safety.
  • Introductory physical self-defense techniques.
  • Builds confidence through awareness and knowledge.
• Best For: Women looking for a quick, accessible overview of safety strategies and basic self-defense skills.

Why Choose One?

Pick R.A.D. if you want a thorough, hands-on self-defense experience with extensive physical training to prepare for real-world threats.

Choose S.A.F.E. if you prefer a shorter session focused on awareness, prevention, and practical safety tips you can easily integrate into your daily life.

Both programs empower you to take control of your safety. Sign up today to learn skills that could make all the difference!