R.A.D. Classes

Empowering Women

Rape Aggression Defense (R.A.D.) is a free program provided by The Ohio State University Police Division that teaches realistic self-defense tactics and techniques to women.

Free R.A.D. Courses

Taught by nationally certified R.A.D. instructors, this comprehensive, women-only course begins with awareness education, prevention, risk reduction and risk avoidance, and progresses to the basics of hands-on defense training. Although students will learn defense strategies, R.A.D. is not a martial arts program.

R.A.D. courses are open to women in Ohio age 14 and older. All students in the course will be provided with a workbook and reference manual that outlines the entire program. Graduates will receive a lifetime return policy to any R.A.D. class nationwide.

Inside Look: OSUPD R.A.D. Class

Inside Look: OSUPD R.A.D. Class

Classes are suspended due to COVID-19. 

 

FAQs

How is this class instructed?

The R.A.D. System is a comprehensive, women-only course that begins with awareness, prevention, risk reduction and risk avoidance, while progressing to the basics of hands-on defense training. This course is physically and psychologically demanding. The training that we offer includes the use of pads and padded suits, which allow the students to experience, practice and learn what it is like to strike the aggressor in a realistic situation. 

Do I need any prior experience to attend this class? Do I need to be in top physical shape to participate?

No. This program is designed for the average woman with no previous experience or background in physical skills training.

Do I have to be a student?

No. You do not need to be a student, faculty or staff to enroll. This class is open for all females in the community. Any female from age 14 and older may register.

What is the attendance policy?

You will spend a total of 15 hours in class. Each class meets for 3 hours once a week, for 5 consecutive weeks. You are expected to attend all classes. There is limited space available, and we typically have people waiting to attend. Please make sure you are committed to attending all of the classes before you register.

What should I wear for class?

Please remember that this is an interactive self defense course. Students may wear loose-fitting clothing, workout clothing, or street clothes. Please do not wear open-toed shoes or heels. Athletic shoes are required.

How do I donate to the Ohio State R.A.D. program?

The Michael Blankenship Police Memorial Fund was created to receive gifts to the university in memory of university Police Officer Michael Blankenship who was killed in the line of duty. The funds are designated for campus crime prevention initiatives and programs. Donations are tax deductible.

Please make checks payable to: The Ohio State Foundation / Michael Blankenship Police Memorial Fund (#306115) and note "For R.A.D." in the memo field. 

For information about how to submit your donation, please visit Ways to Give. 

Can a R.A.D. class be held off-campus?

We often receive requests for training off-campus and within the City of Columbus.  Unfortunately, our R.A.D Team is unable to accommodate these requests, and the service we provide is limited to The Ohio State University Columbus campus.