Women's Self-Defense Classes

HER OWN HERO (4) (1)

The Broomfield Police Department is proud to present an empowering and educational self-defense class for women.  This program has been named Her Own Hero and will be offered free to all. 

The course is designed to provide an opportunity for women to learn necessary self-defense and crime prevention fundamentals, both physical and mental, to address a wide variety of situations. Attendees are welcome to attend regardless of previous experience or fitness level.

Two classes are being offered to those who’d like to attend. The first is a basic, three-hour course that covers safety essentials such as boundaries, mindset, assertiveness, situational awareness, and more. Participants will learn simple and effective safety techniques designed to build confidence. Those vital and life-saving skills will be a part of the participant’s “toolbox” of options moving forward. 

The advanced class is five-hours long and takes participants to a whole new level of empowerment. BASIC CLASS IS A PREREQUISITE. During this session, women have the opportunity to put their newly learned skills to the test as they “fight” their way out of specific scenarios. During the drills, participants will make a risk assessment of their situation, and then determine the best course of action.

  • Saturday, January 13, 2024 (9am - 12pm) 
    Registration Opens December 22, 2023 (8am) 
  • Saturday, February 3, 2024 (9am - 12pm) 
    Registration Opens January 19 (8am) 
  • Saturday, June 8, 2024 (9am - 12pm) 
    Registration Opens May 24 (8am) 
  • Wednesday, July 24, 2024 (6pm - 9pm) 
    Registration Opens July 10 (8am) 
  • Wednesday, October 2, 2024 (6pm - 9pm) 
    Registration Opens September 18 (8am) 
  • Wednesday, November 6, 2024 (6pm - 9pm) 
    Registration Opens October 23 (8am) 

FAQs

Q. I am a survivor of sexual assault/domestic violence, assault, etc. Is attending this class a good idea for me?


A. Research has shown that a quality self-defense class can be healing and empowering for survivors. Our instructors are trauma informed and our classroom is a safe space. However, we encourage you to be aware of where you are in your healing process, and to consult with a therapist if you are not sure if you are ready to attend a self defense class.

Q. I have a disability and/or previous injury. Am I still able to participate in the program? 


A. Yes! Speak with your instructors so that we can make any necessary adjustments and modifications.

Q. Do I need to be athletic and/or a fitness expert to take the class?

A. No! The physical techniques we teach are easy to learn, no matter your physical fitness level or age. If you have a specific concern (bad knee, injured shoulder, etc.), please let the instructors know so that techniques can be adapted to your needs.

Q. What can I expect during a Her Own Hero class? 


A. Violence against women is a serious subject. We often have survivors of violence share their stories during the course of the program. It’s important to recognize the seriousness of these topics, but humor can also be healing, so we laugh and joke and have a good time together as well. 

The first portion of the Basic class is lecture and discussion in a classroom setting, followed by learning simple, effective physical techniques. In the Advanced class, we will review what you learned in the Basic class, then learn additional physical techniques, and have the opportunity to put it all into practice as you fight off an “attacker.”

Q. What should I wear?


A. Wear comfortable clothing you can move freely in and rubber soled shoes. We recommend leaving hoop or dangly jewelry, rings, and bulky watches at home as you will be asked to remove them during the physical portion of the class for safety and injury prevention.

Q. If this is a women's class, why are some of the instructors men?


A. All of our instructors are passionate about women’s safety and preventing violence. Male or female, they’ve all seen firsthand the effects of violence against women and are dedicated to empowering women, teaching them the skills they need to feel confident in their ability to protect themselves.

Q. Where are the classes held?

A. Classes are held at the Broomfield Detention Center located at 11600 Ridge Pkwy, Broomfield, CO.

Q. Who can attend?


A. This class is for women ages 15+ and does not require you to live or work in Broomfield. All participants 15-17 years of age need to be accompanied or signed in by a parent/legal guardian. 

  • Example - If you have multiple daughter’s, only one legal parent/guardian needs to attend or sign in participants. 
  • Example - Your daughter (15-17 YOA) wants their friend (15 -17 YOA) to attend with you as an adult/legal guardian. If this is the case, please contact the Her Own Hero group via email to verify release form.

    For additional questions or for more information, contact the Her Own Hero Team at herownhero@broomfield.org