Rape Aggression Defense (RAD) training is a comprehensive, women-only course that teaches awareness, prevention, risk reduction, and risk avoidance, progressing on to the basics of hands-on defense training. Taught at more than 1,000 colleges and universities across the United States, RAD is the only program endorsed by the International Association of Campus Law Enforcement Administrators. Learn more about the national RAD program.
The RAD Class
The Basic Self-Defense for Women program is a 12-hour course. Participants spend the first three hours in the classroom for open discussion and lecture. The next six hours demonstrate physical techniques, which include stances, strikes, kicks and pressure points, as well as techniques to break away from wrist grabs, bear hugs and choke holds.
The final three hours of RAD feature simulation (optional), in which a certified RAD “aggressor” acts out real-life scenarios, and participants defend themselves using the techniques learned in class. Attendance for the entire course is required in order to participate.
Germanna Police employees have been certified through RAD Systems, Inc. RAD classes are offered several times each semester, and occasionally in the summer months.
The class is free to Germanna students, faculty, and staff. Participants must be at least 18 years of age to participate.
Registration and Dates
If interested in this course, submit the online registration form. If classes are full you will be placed on a waiting list for the next available class.
For more class information, please contact:
- Supervisor Vincent Vernum vvernun@germanna.edu
- Officer Weldon OHearn wohearn@germanna.edu
- First Sergeant Christopher Anderson canderson@germanna.edu
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is RAD?
Rape Aggression Defense, or RAD, was founded in 1989 by Larry Nadeau. RAD is taught at over 1,000 colleges & universities, as well as city, county, and parish police departments across the United States and Canada. It is the only program endorsed by the International Association of Campus Law Enforcement Administrators (IACLEA).
I have heard RAD has several different programs available. What can I take at Germanna?
At this time, the Germanna Police Department teaches the Basic Physical Self-Defense for Women’s Program.
Why can't men take RAD?
RAD courses are gender-specific. Germanna offers the Basic Self-Defense for Women program.
Please contact Officer LaTisha Smith lnsmith@germanna.edu , Officer Laurel Happe lhappe@germanna.edu , or First Sergeant Christopher Anderson canderson@germanna.edu if you are interested in taking the RAD for Men course or for more information on where to do so.
What makes up a RAD course at Germanna?
The Basic Self-Defense for Women program is a 12-hour course. Participants spend the first three hours in the classroom for open discussion and lecture. The next six hours demonstrate physical techniques, which include stances, strikes, kicks and pressure points, as well as techniques to break away from wrist grabs, bear hugs and choke holds. The final three hours of RAD feature simulation (optional), in which a certified RAD “aggressor” acts out real-life scenarios, and participants defend themselves using the techniques learned in class.
Attendance
The 12-hour course is offered in three to six hour sessions, all of which require mandatory attendance to successfully complete the program.
What is ‘simulation’?
A certified RAD “aggressor” acts-out real life scenarios and participants defend themselves using the techniques they have learned in class. Simulation is 100% voluntary, and participants can choose to go through all of the scenarios, some, or none at all. Even if participants are not going through simulation, attendance at simulation is still needed to cheer on your classmates. Simulation is a great way for participants to discover their own strength and power in a controlled environment.
How do I take a course?
To take RAD at Germanna, you need to register ahead of time.
Register online for a RAD course.
Do I have to be in shape to take RAD?
RAD is designed for women of all skill levels and physical abilities. The techniques do not require women to have any special skills or abilities to be successful in the program.
Why should I take RAD?
RAD is not a self-defense course in its original sense. RAD teaches women how to be aware of, reduce the risk of, and avoid being the victims of sexual assault or abduction. RAD does not focus on physical techniques alone, but also offers tips on being aware, protecting your home, and staying safe in situations.
Who teaches RAD?
The Basic Self-Defense for Women RAD program at Germanna is taught by Germanna Police/Security employees who have been certified through RAD Systems, INC. The instructor staff includes male and female instructors. A female instructor will be present at all Germanna RAD classes; male instructors will not practice or demonstrate any RAD techniques with participants. All male instructors are sworn law-enforcement officers.
What are the age requirements of RAD?
RAD at Germanna accepts students as young as 17 years old. There is no age cap on students. Parental waivers MUST be completed by any woman under the age of 18 who wishes to attend RAD.
How much does RAD cost?
RAD at Germanna is FREE for students, faculty, and staff.
How often is RAD held?
RAD at Germanna is held at least twice throughout the semester. Summer classes may vary.
Where are sessions held?
RAD at Germanna is held on both campuses in varied locations. Specific locations will be made available to students upon registration.
What should I wear or bring?
Participants should wear aerobic style workout clothes or loose comfortable clothing and sneakers. Jeans are too restrictive. Running shoes are not suggested since they may not provide good side-support for your feet, but they are permitted. Wedding bands are permitted, but any other jewelry is not allowed. Participants will be provided a RAD manual at the first session, which they should bring with them to the remaining sessions.
Is RAD information kept confidential?
Absolutely. The only people who will know you are taking a RAD course are the instructors, Germanna Police Department supervision, and your classmates. Depending on the location of the class, it may be necessary to provide your ID to security; if a participant is not comfortable with this, instructors are available to assist. Participant names are not shared with anyone outside of the instructor staff and supervision. Personal information of participants is shared only with instructor staff as needed. Forms are kept in locked storage at Germanna Police Department, with access restricted to RAD instructors only.