Self defense programs facilitated by the Sheriff’s Office offer realistic self-defense tactics and techniques. They are comprehensive courses that begin with awareness, prevention, risk reduction and avoidance, then progressing on to the basics of hands-on defense training. R.A.D. itself is not a martial arts program. Our courses are taught by certified R.A.D. instructors that provide you with a workbook/reference manual.
We are dedicated to teaching our community defensive concepts and techniques against various types of assault, by utilizing easy, effective and proven self-defense tactics. There is no cost to attend this course.
For more information on any of the programs offered, or to register for a class, call (352) 374-1800. You can also register for a R.A.D. class by emailing rad@acso.us.
Explore the programs below, and complete this form to start the sign up process:
R.A.D.
The Rape Aggression Defense (RAD) program is a program of realistic self-defense tactics and techniques. It is a comprehensive course for women only (ages 13 and up), 9-12 hours long, usually taught in three 4-hour sessions. Alachua County Sheriff’s Office R.A.D. is taught at Santa Fe College Campus locations in partnership with the Santa Fe College Police Department.
The first block is a classroom discussion about risk reduction strategies, date rape mentality, continuum of survival, defensive strategies and the basic principals of defense. Other topics include developing a defensive mindset, understanding offensive and defensive postures, the benefits of yelling versus screaming, recognizing vulnerable locations and utilizing personal weapons.
The second block introduces students to the hands on defense training. The techniques are based on simple gross motor skills and are developed to the point that they become instinctual through repetition. Practice, practice and practice!
In the third block students will participate in “simulated assault” scenarios at full contact with RAD instructors who wear state of the art protective gear specifically designed for this training. Women will be able to utilize their skills in a safe training environment monitored by instructors. By taking training to this level, students can see how they will react in an actual scenario by getting their heart rate and adrenaline pumping.
The class is FREE, but enrollment is limited to ensure the highest level of quality instruction. Complete the form above for information on class dates, times, and locations.
radKIDS
radKIDS® (Resisting Aggression Defensively) is a 10-hour children’s empowerment program. radKIDS® is now offered in many Alachua County schools in P.E. classes or as an after school activity.
R.A.D. for Seniors
Resisting Aggression Defensively for Seniors (R.A.D. for Seniors) is a 15-hour personal safety class offered at the Senior Recreation Center.
S.A.F.E.
Self-defense Awareness & Familiarization Exchange – S.A.F.E. is a two-hour introduction to R.A.D. for women ages 13 and up, with a minimum class-size of 15, held at your location on request.
Upcoming RAD Classes
September 2023
September 19th – 21st from 5:30 pm to 9:30 pm
October 2023
October 10th – 12th from 5:30 pm to 9:30 pm
November 2023
November 14th – 16th from 5:30 pm to 9:30 pm