Upcoming Courses

The Women’s Defensive Tactics course teaches officers proven skills for overcoming size and strength differences using simple, effective, and easy-to-learn techniques.

This is a 2-day course approved for 14 Minnesota POST credits.

The training is specifically tailored for female and smaller-statured officers, though officers of all sizes and skill levels will benefit. Participants will learn to apply fundamental principles such as leverage, body positioning, and timing to gain control of resistant or assaultive suspects.

The foundation of the course is built on empty-hand control techniques while integrating a full spectrum of force options. The principles are not only effective and easy to retain but also complement tactics officers may already be using.

An attack cannot always be avoided, so officers cannot rely solely on situational awareness or unrealistic techniques. This course provides practical skills designed for real-world encounters.

Course Objectives

• Enhance subject compliance through verbal de-escalation and soft empty-hand techniques
• React effectively to assaultive subjects in close quarters
• Develop skills in handcuffing and controlling resistant subjects
• Perform single-officer and multiple-officer takedowns on resistant subjects

What to Bring

• BDU-style pants
• Duty belt/duty vest
• Training weapon
• Mouth guard

Featured Instructor

Megan McDonald

Testimonials

“One of the best trainings I have been to. Everything was taught at a level that could be understood. What I liked most was how it applies to real life, knowing as a smaller female that these tactics work.”
Haley Larson, Blaine Police Department

“The instructors for this course were very dynamic, adaptive, and open to learning as much as they were to teaching. Made class a collaborative effort. Really felt like we were all on the same team.”
Stephanie Wallace, Minnetonka Police Department

“The instructors were very knowledgeable and knew how to explain things clearly. It was less intimidating with all females. Also learned things I can use as a smaller female.”

“This was my first training outside of my PD and my standards are now pretty high! What I liked most was learning the different techniques and building off of them. I will be attending more!”
Lauren Roll, Crystal Police Department

“This is hands down the best DT/empty hand/close-quarters training I have ever been to. Techniques were simple to learn and are real-life applicable both on and off duty. What I liked most was the rear sitting takedown!”

“They slowed things down and went step by step which was very helpful in remembering how to do it correctly. They were respectful and supportive. What I liked most was the amount of different moves that were shown and how they played into and rolled right into another move.”
Sarah Hubacher, Dundas Police Department

“Best instructors ever. I liked that all the moves didn’t require you to be bigger and stronger than your suspect.”
Sydney Dison, Mounds View Police Department