Self-Defense

We offer a variety of workshops and classes to help our community feel prepared, aware, and confident. Workshops are prioritized for University of Oregon student groups; we will consider other UO campus community requests as capacity allows.

Empowerment Self-Defense Workshop

Self-defense isn’t just learning how to fight. It’s also learning how to set clear boundaries and stand up for yourself while maintaining healthy, positive relationships. In this supportive and empowering workshop, we will introduce you to a range of physical, verbal, and emotional skills that can help you recognize and thwart perpetrator tactics, reduce your risk of sexual assault, and feel more comfortable in your daily interactions. All techniques are simple, easy to learn, and effective regardless of fitness or experience level. The workshops are tailored to the interests and needs of the participants.This workshop is open to all self-identified women and non-binary people who are comfortable in a space centered around experiences of those who identify as or may be perceived as women. Wear clothing that allows ease of movement.

  • A free Empowerment Self-Defense workshop is offered each term (around week 7) on the Group X schedule. Visit Getting Started to view the schedule and secure your spot.
  • Request a customized Empowerment Self-Defense workshop for your group at the Student Recreation Center using the form below. Please allow three weeks to organize your workshop.
    • Workshops are scheduled for two hours for groups of 8–20 people.
    • Workshop cost starts at $250; $50 extra for every additional 1–10 participants.
    • If cost is a primary barrier for your UO student group, please note so on the request form.

Questions? Contact Sarah Ebert at 541-346-0771 or recfitprograms@uoregon.edu.

Request a Workshop

Physical Education Self-Defense Classes

The self-defense workshops are an introduction to our ten-week PE courses. These courses are each one credit or can be taken as non-credit: