Self Defense

The Norwood Police Self-Defense Team is dedicated to empowering women with the mind set and basic techniques of self-defense. The TEAM utilizes the Rape Aggression Defense (RAD) System which is a program of realistic, self-defense tactics and techniques.  It is a comprehensive course for women, which begins with awareness, prevention, risk reduction and avoidance, while progressing on to the basics of hands-on defense training.

RAD is not a martial arts program. Our courses are taught by certified RAD instructors and provide you with a workbook/reference manual. This manual outlines the entire physical defense program for reference and continuous personal growth. The RAD System of Physical Defense is currently being taught at many police departments, colleges and universities.

The basic course requires a minimum of 12 hours of instruction

The class expands over three days, broken up into 3 different sessions

Session 1:

Utilizing the R.A.D. student manual, students will be involved in a discussion of risk reduction strategies, date rape, continuum of survival, defensive strategies, and the basic principal of defense. We also discuss the pros and cons of defense weaponry, how to develop a defensive mindset, understanding offensive and defensive postures, recognizing vulnerable locations and utilizing personal weapons.

Session 2:

Participating students will begin the process of hands on training. The techniques utilized by R.A.D. Systems are based on simple gross motor skills and are developed to the point that they become instinctual through repetition. Students will have the opportunity to use these techniques in dynamic impact training by striking padded equipment held by instructors. All techniques target a single attacker. Participating students will continue to refine the skills previously learned with “practice, practice, practice.”

Session 3:

Students will then participate in “simulated assaulted” scenarios with R.A.D. instructors, who along with participants, wear state to the art protective gear specially designed for this training. Women have the opportunity to utilize their skills in a safe training environment.

The cost of the class is $20.

For more information email: selfdefense@norwoodma.gov