U of M offers women’s self-defense classes for students

The University of Manitoba’s Security Services is giving women a way to be prepared to fight back against an attacker.

The school offers women’s self-defense classes multiple times per year for students, staff and the public.

“A lot of the students might be coming into the city from out of town for the first time away from their parents and they might not be aware of what possible dangers could be out there for them,” instructor Kristi Bonin said.

The students learn how to use their bodies as weapons, as well as regular items like a flashlight or a set of keys.

“What we try to do in this course is empower women so they know they have the ability to defend themselves,” co-instructor Robert Rybacki said.

Lesley Gregoire was one of the participants in the class on Sunday.

“Mentally if I’m just walking by myself I even remind myself of different moves that I could do in a situation just to keep it fresh,” Gregoire said.

The next time the course is offered will be on January 13 and 14.