The Women’s Self-Defense Program is a free comprehensive course that includes:
- Classroom instruction on topics such as:
- Situational awareness
- Risk reduction
- Crime prevention strategies
- Defensive concepts
- Hands-on training in physical defense techniques that will help participants:
- Identify safety risks
- Evaluate their strengths and weaknesses
- Explore options for handling threats of violence
The class instruction, discussions, and demonstrations are designed to provide knowledge and skills allowing students to potentially decrease their vulnerability and provide a sense of confidence and empowerment.
The self-defense techniques are easily learned, applied, and retained for all ages and skill levels. During the class, students will have the opportunity to test their new self-defense skills in a simulated and controlled environment. The courses are taught by certified instructors; however, the program is not a martial arts program.
2025 Women's Self-Defense Program (18+) Dates:
All Self Defense Programs will be held at the Apex Police Department (205 Saunders Street) from 6:00 - 9:00 pm
- February 27th & 28th
- May 8th & 9th
- August 7th & 8th
- November 4th & 5th
2025 Junior Women's Self-Defense Program (Ages 14 - 19) Dates:
All Junior Self-Defense Programs will be held at the Apex Police Department (205 Saunders Street) from 6:00 - 9:00 pm
To register for one of these sessions, please complete the following application and return it to the Apex Police Department (205 Saunders Street, Apex) Attention: Captain Christy Wentzell Women’s Self-Defense Program.
We ask that you do not turn your application in more than 30 days in advance of the session that you would like to attend.
Note: A Notary is available during regular business hours to assist with completion of the form.
Applicants for the Women’s Self-Defense Program must:
- Be at least 18 years of age (if applying for the Women's Self-Defense Program)
- Junior Women's Self-Defense Program is open to ages 14 - 19, anyone under 18 will need written consent from a legal guardian
- Live or work in Apex
- Complete a waiver allowing the police department to review their criminal history (anyone convicted of a violence-related crime or a history of violence related behavior will be reviewed on a case by case basis for approval)
The class is free of charge but students are selected through an application process. The names of the selected candidates are placed in the class until the maximum number is reached. The remaining applicants will be placed on a waiting list for the next class. Enrollment is limited to approximately twenty students per session.
If you have any questions, please contact Captain Christy Wentzell via email or by phone at 919-291-5140.