Many myths cloud the issues. Many women believe 'It will never happen to me.' And refuse to think about it further.

Ellen Snortland, in her book, Beauty Bites Beast draws a parallel between physical self-defense training and swimming. Swimming is physical self-defense too.

I have heard of women who are berated for wanting to take self defense: "Why do you want to take that class? Don't you feel safe?" Often this is said by a caring significant other who sees his job as protecting the woman. Most men have never felt the fear or intimidation that many women experience when they walk through a deserted parking structure.

Some of the tools for self defense are simple. For example the three A's:

Avoidance - Don't be there. The best way to avoid trouble is don't put yourself into dangerous situations. Walk around the block instead of through the dark alley; Walk with others across campus late at night, etc.

Awareness - Notice who and what is around you. Stay two arms-length distance from a stranger. Walk with confidence.

Assertiveness - This is not that same as aggressiveness. Learn to say 'NO,' set boundaries and stand your ground.

The most empowering class I have ever taken has been Impact Personal Safety. Unlike Karate, kick-boxing, or other self defense type classes that teach you specific moves, but have you pull your punches, this training deals with muscle memory training. They put you in 'real' scenarios so you feel what it is like to defend yourself while in an adrenaline state. You practice against a padded assailant so you use full impact. Also included are verbal self defense strategies practiced in role playing scenarios in a wide variety of contexts, dealing with strangers as well as people you know

Classes prepare you mentally and physically to handle the full range of challenging situations we all face in our daily lives, including the danger of extreme circumstances. You will learn how to:

• avoid danger by heightening your awareness
• shorten your body's natural "freeze" response
• capitalize on the adrenaline rush
• assess situations quickly and respond decisively
• use your voice, brain, body and spirit to stay safe

Although the fight scenarios are often the highlight this program, for many participants, the benefits of class go beyond learning how to stay safe or how to intervene in a potentially violent encounter. Graduates report:

• greater general awareness and confidence
• increased self esteem and assertiveness
• ability to communicate clearly and directly
• creative and flexible problem solving skills
• improved leadership skills
• more focus and effectiveness at work
• calm, clearheaded thinking during stress or crisis