Chimera® Empowerment Self Defense
Chimera (ky-MEER-ah) is an inclusive, trauma-informed Empowerment Self-Defense program. You’ll learn to navigate your life and safety the way that YOU want.
Simple, easy-to-remember techniques
Recognizing violence before it begins
Non-violent defenses and grab escapes
Boundary-setting with strangers, friends, and partners
For information call or text (608) 960-9036 or email Natalie, our Chimera Coordinator, at Chimera@theRCC.org.
Register for Classes
2024 Class Schedule
Public Workshops
Mother’s Day workshop—This Mother’s Day, invite someone to attend this workshop with you (the following weekend)! Designed for big-little pairs ages 12 and up (bring your child, nibling, cousin, mom, aunt, grandma, AA sponsor, friend’s mom, etc.)
Sunday, May 19, 10:00am-noon, Monona Terrace ($30/pair plus $10 each additional person)
More dates coming soon!
Public Courses
Mondays, June 3-July 8 (6 sessions), 5:30-7:30pm, Neighborhood House - ALL GENDERS WELCOME
UW Courses
UW Recreation & Wellbeing membership required! (Register on UW's site):
Mondays, March 11-April 29 (except 3/25 & 4/8 — 6 sessions), 7:30-9:00pm, Bakke Recreation & Wellbeing Center
Mondays, September 16-October 21 (6 sessions), 7:30-9:00pm, Bakke Recreation & Wellbeing Center
Mondays, October 28-December 9 (except 11/25—6 sessions), 7:30-9:00pm, Bakke Recreation & Wellbeing Center
Unless otherwise noted, all classes are CLOSED to men. Please note that trans women and non-binary participants are welcome at ALL courses. Our instructors always prioritize an emotionally safe and inclusive atmosphere for all participants. We also recognize that some participants will feel more comfortable in a class specifically open to all genders. Our next all-gender course will be scheduled for spring 2024.
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A basic 12-hour Chimera course is $120 per person or $75 for students/seniors.
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Scholarships are available! First, fill out a registration form below and select the payment option that says, “I am not paying at this time.” Then click here to fill out a short application. Chimera staff will get back to you as soon as possible.
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We can offer limited transportation assistance to and from classes. Contact Chimera@theRCC.org if you will have difficulty getting to class.
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If inclement weather causes transportation safety concerns for the instructor(s) or students, the instructor may decide to cancel class. If the session is canceled, they will email all participants to let them know at least 3 hours in advance. RCC will reschedule the session as soon as possible, aiming for the same day of the week and time of day, one week later if possible. No refunds will be issued.
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Registrants may choose a different set of class dates OR request a refund in the following situations:
If you can no longer attend, and you tell us at least 48 hours in advance of the first session;
If RCC cancels the class due to low enrollment
If the instructor cancels the entire class due to personal illness or emergency
In other cases, a refund may not be possible. If a single session of a class is canceled because the instructor is sick or the weather is bad, RCC will reschedule the session. No refunds will be issued.
Private Class
Hosting a private Chimera class is a great way to get tailored, specific strategies that address the needs of your group! We come to workplaces, Girl Scout troops, sports teams, and more!
Click below to request a private class.
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One instructor can teach a class of up to 30 people. (No minimum attendance!) Our rates are $150/hour per instructor ($100/hour for nonprofits and government agencies). If you do not have the budget for this, please call us anyway to discuss (and ask about our family discounts!).
If you would like us to do a large-scale workshop or a speaking engagement to ~100 people or more, we may ask for a special speaking fee of $200/hour. Call or email to discuss this. -
We can accommodate a class of whatever length you like, from 1 to 12 hours. Most private classes settle on 2-4 hours, but sometimes people book all 12!
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Chimera does not have its own space, and generally we need requesters to secure their own locations. It should be somewhere we can yell without alarming anyone, with enough space for limited group movement (think aerobics class) and working in pairs. If you cannot find a space, let us know and we might have a few suggestions.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Chimera is beneficial for women, femmes, and nonbinary people of all cultures, ages (12 and up), and physical abilities.
You do NOT have to identify as a survivor of violence to take Chimera! Graduates of Chimera, including survivors of sexual assault, often report feeling empowered, more assertive, and in better control of their lives after completing a Chimera course.
Private classes can be adapted for specific audiences, including LGBTQ+ and elderly audiences.
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We will never ask you to tell your story! It’s up to you what to share, if anything.
Wear clothes that allow a free range of motion. You will move but you probably won’t sweat. We usually ask students to remove shoes, socks, and jewelry for parts of the class.
Call, text, or email if you need specific accommodations or have questions! (608-960-9036 or Chimera@theRCC.org)
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Every class includes:
Facts about sexual assault and the effectiveness of resistance
Violent and non-violent physical skills
Assertive boundary-setting skills
Defenses against harassment and assault by acquaintances and strangers
Full 12-hour courses include:
Defenses against multiple attackers
Advanced ground techniques
Strategies for dealing with armed attackers
Protection in and around cars
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No. For students’ comfort and confidentiality, only class participants and staff are permitted to be present while class is being held. If you want to see a friend or family member learning to kick butt, join the class! We have something for everyone.
If you have questions about class, call, text, or email us! (608-960-9036 or Chimera@theRCC.org)
Gift Certificates Available!
A Chimera class makes a great gift! Click here to purchase a Chimera gift certificate: