According to annual crime data, the crime rate in Indiana is currently 3.88%. Although the crime rate has decreased in Indiana since 2012, it is still very possible that at least once in a person’s life they will be a possible victim. Being able to defend yourself, maybe the line between life and death. Sophomore Shelby Roe has been taking self-defense classes for three years now.

“I started taking the self-defense class before seventh grade because my mom wanted me to be able to protect myself in the event of an attack, or assault,” said Roe.

The department of justice reports approximately 20% of women will be victims of sexual assault in their lifetime in the united states. Model Mugging is a self-defense training program that teaches females how to fight back in case of an attack. Graduates of the program reported a total of 221 physical attacks and 97% of graduates were able to successfully fight off their attacker.Self-defense class not only teaches women how effectively fight off an attacker, but it also gives them a sense of empowerment.

“Self-defense has really helped me to be more aware of my surroundings and be confident in what I can do to protect myself,” Roe said. “I feel empowered because I can defend myself if I do ever get in a bad situation.”

In self-defense, there are different options of classes you can take based on what you focus on learning.

“There are a few different types of self-defense classes you can take. In Tai Kwan Do you can take lessons and compete or you could take basic de-arming classes.”

Taking either a competition level class or just a basic de-arming class can help prepare you for an attack and could save your life.

“More people should take self-defense classes in case there is a situation that would require self-defense, they could use it,” Roe said.