R.A.D. Self-Defense

What Is R.A.D. Self-Defense Training?

Rape Aggression Defense, or R.A.D., is an internationally recognized self-defense program. R.A.D. at Texas Tech combines education, awareness and hands-on techniques designed to help participants respond to aggressive or potentially dangerous situations.

Basic R.A.D. courses include a lecture session and an activity session that build on one another. Participants must attend both sessions to complete the program. Courses are led by certified instructors through R.A.D. Systems.

Organizations and departments may also request private or semi-private training.

Request a Private R.A.D. Class

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Class Types

R.A.D. for Men

Participants learn strategies for avoiding aggressive behavior, consider ways they can help reduce aggression and violence and practice hands-on self-defense skills for resisting and escaping aggressive situations.

The basic course includes approximately nine hours of instruction.

R.A.D. for Women

Women's Basic Physical Defense focuses on education, awareness and practical self-defense techniques. The program includes lecture, discussion and hands-on practice designed for participants of varying ages, abilities and levels of experience.

The basic course includes approximately nine hours of instruction.

R.A.D. Adverse Dynamics Simulation

Adverse Dynamics Simulation provides additional reality-based training for navigating potentially dangerous scenarios. Simulations allow participants to practice self-defense techniques in realistic situations within a controlled training environment.

Participants must complete either the Women's or Men's R.A.D. basic course before attending an Adverse Dynamics Simulation.

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Available Classes

Men's Basics

Fall 2026 class dates will be posted at the beginning of the semester.

Women's Basics

Fall 2026 class dates will be posted at the beginning of the semester.

R.A.D. Adverse Dynamics Simulation

Adverse Dynamics Simulation is available only to participants who have completed a R.A.D. basic course.

Join a Class

To register for a scheduled R.A.D. class, complete the registration form. Space is limited and submitting the form does not guarantee a spot. Participants will receive confirmation by email after registration.

Register for R.A.D.

Basic R.A.D. courses require attendance at both the lecture and activity sessions. Participants who do not attend the full course and do not provide at least 24 hours' notice may receive a $10 charge through their Texas Tech eBill.

RISE makes every effort to maintain scheduled training dates. However, classes require a minimum number of participants and may be canceled if that minimum is not met. Participants affected by a cancellation will receive priority for the next available session.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Who can participate?

R.A.D. Self-Defense Training is open to Texas Tech students, faculty and staff and members of the Lubbock community. Classes are filled on a first-come, first-served basis, with priority given to Texas Tech students.

Do I need previous self-defense experience?

No. The program is designed for participants with no previous experience or background in physical skills training.

Do I need to be in top physical condition?

No. R.A.D. is designed for the average participant and does not require previous physical training.

How much does R.A.D. cost?

R.A.D. classes are free. Students who miss a scheduled class without providing at least 24 hours' notice may receive a $10 charge through their Texas Tech eBill.

Why does the basic course meet more than once?

The R.A.D. Basic Physical Defense program requires a minimum of nine hours of instruction. Lecture, discussion and physical skills build on one another, so participants must attend both sessions to complete the program.

Which class should I register for?

If you are unsure which R.A.D. class is appropriate for you, contact RISE at rise@ttu.edu or 806.742.2110.