The Cape Coral Police Department is sponsoring monthly classes on self-defense strategies for women beginning November 18 and continuing through October 2010. The three-hour classes will be from 6 p.m. 9 p.m. at Koryu Fitness located at 415 Cape Coral Parkway West. Cost for the class is $25.

Under the instruction of Sensei Nick De Paolo, women will learn realistic options that will help them avoid, escape and survive an assault. Class participants will discuss how to be more aware of their surroundings; how to recognize and avoid potentially harmful situations; and, how to reduce their chances of an incident. Two-person drills will help women develop an instinctive response to what is called "Habitual Acts of Physical Violence."

The program is designed for women of all ages and physical condition, and no previous experience or training is necessary. Mothers are encouraged to bring their daughters to learn a variety of self-defense strategies that can help increase personal safety.

Dates for classes in 2009: Nov. 18; Dec. 16; dates for classes in 2010: Jan. 20 , Feb. 17, March 17, April 21, June 16, July 21, Aug. 18, Sept. 15, Oct. 20.

Payment is required prior to taking the class, and all participants must sign a waiver at the door.

For more information, contact the Cape Police Department's Crime Prevention Unit at 242-3710. A brochure and registration form is available on the main page of the City's website at www.capecoral.net (right column).

Source; City of Cape Coral