Self Defense Course Helps Women “Take Control of Their Safety”
SNOW HILL, Md. – Every Wednesday, a group of women from all walks of life, gather at Worcester County Recreation in Snow Hill, to learn how to take control of their safety.
Peyton Becker is a program manager at Worcester County Recreation and Parks, and helped create the course.
“We hear some stories of the things that are happening not just here, but kind of around the world.” Said Becker. “So just having that knowledge and being prepared for anything that might come their way and I think just builds a peace of mind.”
The course, taught by a long time instructor Diana Martin from Pocomoke Karate and Judo, aims to teach women basic defense skills, through demonstrations of potential altercations.
“A lot of women, a lot of people, are not aware of their environment.” Said Martin. “It doesn’t matter if it’s a small town or a big city, you still need to be aware of what’s going on and maybe have an idea of what to do, If a situation happened.”
The program aims to change this, by helping participants, like Crystal Heiser, improve their alertness, confidence and help them to feel prepared, while going about their every day lives.
“I walk a lot of times by myself in the morning, late at night.” Said Heiser. “And you don’t always know what you’re going to encounter. it just it gives you a sense of security in knowing that you have the ability to be able to not necessarily out strengthen somebody. But you have some, you know, tips and tricks and moves that will benefit you moving forward.”
The program will continue every Wednesday until October 21st. But if you don’t have the time to make a class, instructor Diana Martin still has a few words of advice.
“Always have something ready just in case.” Said Martin. “Whether it be knowledge of what I think I’m going to do. Also something in there hand ready to swing with, even if it’s your pocketbook. Just really mainly awareness and some confidence and always look behind you when you’re walking.”
For more information on the course, visit https://worcesterrecandparks.org/programs/womens-self-defense-class
