To the women in our dojo community, whether you are a parent, or know someone in your life who is interested in learning self defense, we are having a  5-Week Women’s Self-Defense Course at the Colchester Rec Department. 

Learn practical self-defense techniques to protect yourself while improving both your physical and mental resilience.

In 2024, and now almost 2025, women’s self-defense remains a critical skill due to the persistent challenges women face globally. Despite progress in gender equality, statistics show that women are still disproportionately targeted for violence, harassment, and abuse. Here are a few reasons why courses like this are essential:

Prevalence of Violence Against Women:Women continue to experience higher rates of domestic violence, sexual assault, and street harassment. In the U.S. alone, nearly 1 in 3 women has faced physical or sexual violence in her lifetime. Empowering women with self-defense tools helps them navigate these risks more confidently.

Rising Awareness Doesn’t Eliminate Threats: Although societal awareness of gender-based violence has increased, systemic change takes time. Women's self-defense courses provide an immediate, practical way to address safety concerns in the meantime.

Unequal Power Dynamics: Women often face unique vulnerabilities, including when traveling alone, commuting at night, or in professional settings. Self-defense skills can serve as a means of leveling the playing field, giving women the confidence to assert boundaries.

Building Mental and Physical Strength: Self-defense isn’t just about responding to threats; it’s about fostering empowerment, resilience, and community. These courses teach women to trust their instincts, develop situational awareness, and rely on themselves in moments of crisis.

Addressing Persistent Gender Inequality: Women are still often singled out as easy targets due to outdated societal norms that portray them as weaker or less capable. By teaching women to defend themselves, these courses challenge those stereotypes and reinforce the narrative of strength and independence.

When: Thursday nights starting 1/16/25 through 2/13/25

Where: Colchester Recreation Center

How to Sign Up: Contact Colchester Rec by calling 802-264-5640 or email recreation@colchestervt.gov

In a world where gender-based violence remains a pervasive issue, self-defense courses are more than just physical training—they are a vital step toward empowering women and fostering a culture of safety and respect.