VCU Offers RAD Self-Defense Course for Women

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Virginia Commonwealth University Police are offering a Rape Aggression Defense (RAD) program for women in the VCU community. RAD teaches women about more than just physical self-defense. It trains women to be aware of, reduce the risk of and avoid being the victims of sexual assault or abduction.

“A lot of what we teach is ‘risk awareness’ and ‘risk avoidance,’" said Corporal Jody Atkins, RAD instructor and VCU police officer. "Ninety percent of self-defense is risk awareness.”

The first three hours of training consists of open discussion and lecture. The following six hours teach students physical self-defense techniques. RAD participants learn "sting-and-stun" moves, breaking wrist-grabs, bear hugs and choke holds, as well as kicks and strikes.

“RAD is the only self-defense program endorsed by IACLEA (International Association of Campus Law Enforcement Administrators),” said Atkins. “Unlike other self-defense programs, RAD uses techniques that are designed for the ‘average’ female to be able to use.  It focuses on teaching techniques that work with a female's natural strengths and focuses on a male's natural weaknesses.”

The final part of the course is known as “simulation.” The last three hours allow participants to use the skills they have learned on a certified RAD “aggressor” in real-life scenarios. The simulation portion of the class is optional, but all participants should be present to support classmates. It provides a way for participants to discover their own strength and power in a controlled environment.

“Our ladies leave the class with is a feeling of confidence that many have never felt before,” said Atkins.

RAD instructors are sworn police officers or police staff who have successfully completed RAD Instructor School. RAD Systems Inc. recommends no more than five students per instructor, allowing a maximum of 35 students in each class. This ensures that students are implementing the physical techniques properly, Atkins said.

The RAD program is a 12-hour course open to females ages 12 and over, but those 17 and younger need parental or guardian waivers signed. VCU Police offers the course in four three-hour sessions held on Monday and Wednesday evenings or two six-hour sessions held on back-to-back Saturdays. RAD is free to all female students and $10 for faculty, staff and non-VCU affiliated women.

At least two classes are held each fall and spring semester at VCU.

Spring 2013 Schedule

Class No. 1
CLASS IS FULL TO CAPACITY

Class No. 2
Saturday, March 23, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., with a one-hour lunch break - VCU Police Headquarters (938 W. Grace St.)
Saturday, March 30, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., with a one-hour lunch break - 500 Academic Center (500 N. Harrison St.)


Class No. 3
Monday, March 11, 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., VCU Police Headquarters (938 W. Grace St)
Wednesday, March 13, 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., Franklin Street Gym
Monday, March 18, 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., Franklin Street Gym
Wednesday, March 20, 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., Franklin Street Gym


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