Self-Defense Classes
Self-Defense Classes |
Lt. Joe Richardson
812-376-2605
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The Columbus Police Department has been offering the citizens of Columbus self-defense classes for a number of years. Typically, we limit the class to women and ask that the participants be at least 16 years old. We encourage mothers and daughters to participate together or will tailor the class to a specific group of individuals.
The class covers a wide range of topics and techniques. The class is taught by Columbus Police Department instructors that are certified through the Indiana Law Enforcement Training Board. The class usually meets once a week for three or four sessions. We review Indiana's statutes on self-defense and use of force, as well as the potential for civil litigation in any use of force. A survival mindset, the physiological and psychological factors of a confrontation, and ways to prevent becoming a victim are covered in the lecture portion of the class.
We teach class participants to avoid putting themselves in potentially dangerous situations and to recognize potential threats as early as possible.
We emphasize simple, yet effective methods when it comes to the actual self-defense techniques. We have found these methods to work best as they are quickly learned and easily retained. We teach the students to maintain a "reactionary gap" if confronted by a threat or to create space between themselves and attacker. Numerous types of striking techniques are taught through the course. Punches with closed fist, open hand strikes, elbow strikes, knee strikes and several different kicks are just some of what we teach. Techniques that show how to escape from various holds are shown as well.
The training is physical in nature and does require some degree mobility. To reduce the potential for injury, students practice the techniques on pads or striking bags.
We spend a portion of the last class on other means of defense such as OC or "pepper" sprays, as we know many women have questions with the effectiveness of such devices.
Typically, we try to hold two classes per year, one in the spring and the other in the fall. Class size is limited to approximately 25 students. Watch our website or contact the Columbus Police Department for our next scheduled class. |
