The Charlottesville Area Trail runners are hosting a free Self-Defense Workshop on August 18. Join the CATs for a group run at 8 AM and the workshop at 9 AM. The workshop is FREE and open to all CAT members ages 13 and above. However, we ask that you please RSVP to the Facebook event here: https://www.facebook.com/events/427908944486814/.

Not a CAT member? Join now here!

About the Workshop

Almost daily the media report stories of violent attacks on runners. Those who fight back are more likely to get away safely, yet without some form of training it’s hard to know what to do. Join instructor Julie Morrill for an invigorating workshop on personal safety where you will learn how to fight back. Bring your sense of humor and sense of adventure! This hour workshop includes safety tips, scenario discussions, and some empowering self-defense techniques. You will learn:

• How to recognize and avoid potentially violent situations

• How to capably respond to violent situations

• Basic tools for fighting back, including:

  • The ideal stance to help maintain your balance and get away

  • Basic moves: punches, kicks, elbows, and knees

• Demonstrations of how to defend against common attacks on runners, such as:

  • Wrist grabs

  • Bear hugs — both arms free and arms trapped

  • Hair pull attacks