La VERGNE, TN (WGNS) - It’s no secret that the world can feel unsettling at times, especially for women who simply want to go about their day without worrying about who might approach them. But strength comes in many forms, and sometimes all it takes is the right training to unlock confidence you didn’t even know you had. That’s exactly what the La Vergne Police Department hopes to offer with its upcoming Rape Aggression Defense (R.A.D.) course—a free, hands-on program designed to help women protect themselves in real‑world situations.

Registration is now open for the next R.A.D. Self‑Defense Course for Women, scheduled for June 26–28 through a partnership between the La Vergne Police Department and the Middle Tennessee State University Police Department. The course is open to women ages 15 and older, and no experience is required. Whether you’re a teenager heading off to college, a working adult, or a senior who wants to feel more secure, the program is built to meet you where you are.

R.A.D. has earned national recognition for its practical, easy‑to‑learn defensive tactics and its emphasis on situational awareness. Instructors focus on helping participants recognize potential threats, avoid dangerous encounters, and respond effectively if someone tries to harm them. The goal isn’t to turn anyone into a martial artist—it’s to give women the tools and mindset to protect themselves long before a situation becomes physical.

The course blends classroom instruction with hands‑on practice, all led by certified trainers who understand how to teach these skills in a supportive, encouraging environment. Participants are asked to attend both instructional days because the program is designed as one complete learning experience rather than a set of stand‑alone sessions.

One of the most unique parts of the program is the optional simulation day on June 28. This final session allows participants to apply what they’ve learned in realistic, controlled scenarios that safely mimic real‑life encounters. Many women say this is the moment when everything “clicks,” and they walk away feeling stronger and more capable than they ever expected.

The class is free, but space is limited. Registration and full details are available at LaVergneTN.gov/650/RAD-For-Women.