Final RAD self-defense course puts training into action

ELKHART, Ind. – The final training night of the RAD (Rape Aggression Defense) training course was held Thursday night in Elkhart.

The course takes women as young as 12-years-old through a series of training exercises, culminating in a simulation night, where the students can put their learned-techniques into action.

Coordinator, Detective Norma Alber, has been leading the program for almost 25 years, and as she leads her last course before retirement, emphasizes the need for women to participate.

"Some women have never been in a physical altercation, so they've never been grabbed and they don't know what to do. But if they understand what's their favorite punch, what's their favorite kick, how do you respond in these situations? This gives them insight on what to do."

The course is offered for free each year, as it allows for any woman of any age group or social class to participate and learn potentially life-saving techniques.