LEWISTON — YWCA of Central Maine has teamed up with Donna Harris of Phoenix Karate Academy to offer a six-week women’s self defense program for women in the community. Classes will be held on Thursday evenings, May 2 through June 6, from 6 to 7 p.m.

The classes will give an overview of awareness of our surroundings, importance of muscle memory, how not to appear as a victim and defenses against common attacks toward women by showing how to use our surroundings, clothing and accessories as defense weapons.

This self-defense program is designed for women of all ages and body types. If you have medical conditions that limit your mobility the instructor will adapt these self-defense techniques to meet your needs. What is unique about this upcoming program is that it is a class for women, taught by a woman, and it will give you the tools to be your own bodyguard.

According to the National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey 2010 Summary Report, one in four women have experienced severe physical violence by a current or former spouse or boyfriend and according to the Department of Justice, one of the best ways to prevent violence against women is through bystander intervention training as assaults are often witnessed by another person or bystander. This class will address what a bystander can do to prevent an attack.

The cost is $60 for YWCA members, $75 for non-members. Space is limited. For more information call 795-4050.