Chimera® Empowerment Self-Defense

chimera self-defense demonstration
Photo of RCC staff giving presentation at a bar
Photo of RCC staff giving presentation at a bar
Photo of RCC staff giving presentation at a bar

Chimera (ky-MEER-ah) is a fun, inclusive, trauma-informed Empowerment Self-Defense program. You’ll learn to navigate your life and safety the way YOU want through:

  • Simple, easy-to-remember techniques

  • Recognizing violence before it begins

  • Non-violent defenses and grab escapes

  • Boundary-setting & assertive communication with strangers, friends, and partners

  • Learning with and building a supportive community

In addition to presenting accurate information about sexual assault, Chimera teaches effective responses to violence, both verbal and physical, with the goal of avoiding or stopping an attack. For information call or text (608) 960-9036 or email Natalie, our Chimera Coordinator, at Chimera@theRCC.org.

Register for Classes

2025 Class Schedule

Public Workshops

  • Palentine’s Day Workshop - Thursday, February 13, 6:30-8:00pm, Monona Terrace. Bring a friend and learn to watch each other’s backs! Bystander intervention, progression of violence, and more!

Comprehensive Courses

  • Wednesdays, January 22-February 26 (6 sessions), 6:00-8:30pm, Goodman Community Center

  • Sundays, April 6 & 13 (2 sessions), 10:30am-5:30pm, Goodman Community Center

UW Courses

Free with UW Recreation & Wellbeing membership! (Register on UW's site):

  • Mondays, October 28-December 9 (except 11/25—6 sessions), 7:30-9:00pm, Bakke Recreation & Wellbeing Center

  • Mondays, February 3-March 10 (6 sessions), 7:30-9:00pm, Bakke Recreation & Wellbeing Center

  • Mondays, March 17-April 28 (except 3/24—6 sessions), 7:30-9:00pm, Bakke Recreation & Wellbeing Center

Our classes are designed to serve folks who are targets of gender-based violence - all Trans and gender-expansive people 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 in spring 2025.

  • A basic 12-hour Chimera course is $120 per person or $75 for students/seniors.

  • 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.

  • We can offer limited transportation assistance to and from classes. Contact Chimera@theRCC.org if you will have difficulty getting to class.

  • 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.

  • 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 Group Classes

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.

  • 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!

  • 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

  • Chimera is designed for people affected by gender-based violence. All cultures, ages (12 and up), and physical abilities welcome.

    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+, physical & intellectual disabilities, elderly folks, etc.

  • 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)

  • Every class includes:

    • Violent and non-violent physical skills

    • Assertive communication & boundary-setting skills

    • Defenses against harassment and assault by acquaintances and strangers

    • Facts & discussion about sexual violence

    Full 12-hour courses include:

    • Defenses against multiple attackers

    • Advanced ground techniques

    • Strategies for dealing with armed attackers

    • Protection in and around cars

  • 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: