A new, five-week Smart Defense course will be offered by the University of Utah Public Safety Department in partnership with The Elizabeth Smart Foundation to help participants learn techniques and practical skills to defend themselves, create space and escape a dangerous situation.
Classes run each Thursday from 6-8 p.m. from Sept. 10-Oct. 8.
Smart Defense teaches more than just physical combat skills; it’s a female-led program that’s trauma-informed and designed to help people feel more aware, prepared and confident.
Class participants will learn how to:
- Recognize red flags and unsafe situations
- Set and enforce personal boundaries
- Use practical techniques to defend yourself
- Create space and escape an attacker
The course will be taught by Miyo Strong (@Utahjitsmama), a black belt in Jiu Jitsu and the program director for The Elizabeth Smart Foundation, where she leads the self-defense program, Smart Defense. She is trauma-informed trained through UCASA.
The five-week class is $30 and will be held at:
University of Utah Department of Public Safety
1658 E. 500 South
SLC, Utah 84112
Registration is open through Sept. 10 or when the course is filled. Visit elizabethsmartfoundation.org to register.