Self-Defense for Women Workshops
Self Defense Photos
UICPD Self Defense Class
Overview:
This two-hour course is designed to introduce female participants (18 years and older) basic techniques that she can use to defend herself physically and to win a fight in a dangerous or potentially lethal situation. This course focuses on building the student’s confidence in her ability to defend herself, and in encouraging a defiant and aggressive attitude toward an attacker.
GOALS
The main goals of the two-hour self-defense course include:
- Increasing the students’ awareness of general violence prevention skills.
- Building the students’ confidence in their ability to fight back successfully against an attacker.
- Developing the mindset that “no one has the right to put their hands on me.”
- Learning strategies and tactics that can potentially prevent an attack.
The course is free to women aged 18 and older with valid health insurance. However, UIC students, faculty, and staff are given first priority for attending the class.
Interested?
Due to the popularity of the program, the classes fill up quickly. Please register as soon as possible. Keep in mind UIC students, faculty and staff members are first priority. However, the general public may take the class as well.
2025 classes coming soon!
Instructors
Roxanne Brown
Margaret Chiczewski
Tawanna Clark
Frequently Asked Questions
Parking & Public Transit
Parking: There are two parking areas that are closest to the Student Recreation Center Facility. (Parking is not provided).
- 761 W. Taylor Lot 4
- 763 W. Polk St. Metered parking
Public Transit:
- CTA Bus Line #8: exit on Polk and Halstead
- Blue Line: exit on 420 S. Halstead
Course is free
There is no cost associated with the course itself. However, parking requires payment.
Yes you can
Yes! You do not need to complete the physical portion of the class if you are pregnant. However, once your doctor has cleared you for physical activity post-term, you may return for the physical portion.
Driver's License & Insurance
Class participants must bring a current driver’s license and proof of health insurance. Recommended: hair tie/clips, snacks, and water.
Athletic wear
Comfortable clothing/athletic wear and close-toed shoes. (Please remove jewelry prior to class).
Yes
Yes, you can bring a female friend.
No
No, you do not need to be a UIC student, faculty or staff to participate in the training. However, UIC-affiliated individuals have a higher priority for taking the class.
No
Unfortunately, no one under 18 is permitted to take the training.
Yes
Yes! You do not need to complete the physical portion of the class if you are pregnant. However, once your doctor has cleared you for physical activity post-term, you may return for the physical portion.
Yes
Absolutely! You can participate at your comfort level, and we can find ways to maximize the abilities you have.
Email the instructors
If you can no longer attend the training, please let an instructor know as soon as possible so that someone on the wait list can take your place. To cancel, go to the calendar icon, and click “cancel.” Additionally, inform the instructors of your inability to attend through email-uicpdselfdefense@uic.edu
Yes
Yes, simply send a courtesy email to the instructors letting them know that you are running late- uicpdselfdefense@uic.edu
No
Unfortunately, having valid health insurance is a requirement for taking the course. Individuals without health insurance will be unable to participate.
Student Recreation Center
The training will take place at the Student Recreation Center Facility, Building 630, Multi-Purpose-B. The desk attendant will be able to direct you to the Multi-Purpose