So, you've decided to take a class in self defense. Depending on where you live, you may be overwhelmed by the choices. Here are some tips to help you choose the right self defense class for you.

1. If you are a woman, seek a self defense class that is designed for women. This will teach you how to defend yourself against people who have more size and strength than you have and if you have the ability to defend yourself against those people, you have the ability to defend yourself against all people.

2. Call the person or institution holding the class. Find out the credentials of the instructor, and ask for references.

3. Call your local police station, and ask for a reference. The chances are good that they know of all the self defense classes in your area, and they probably also know which one is the best. They may even offer their own self defense classes.

4. Ask if there is a trial class, or if you can pay for just one session, instead of paying for multiple sessions. This will allow you to see if the class will work for you, and if you have faith in the instructor.

5. Some classes will be more expensive than others. Do not choose a self defense class based on the cost. This is your safety, and possibly your life that you are trying to protect. Choose the best class and not the most or least expensive class.

6. Some classes will be more extensive than others. For best results, choose a class that will teach you how to defend yourself in the shortest possible time, and then look into classes for more advanced self defense later. Keep your priorities straight!

7. Ask about the instructors' philosophies concerning self defense, and make sure that they are in line with your own philosophies.

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In today's scary world, it is vital that you be prepared for various situations especially self defense. Now, this doesn't mean that you have to equip yourself like Rambo. Instead, there are some smaller, more manageable and ordinary tools that you should have with you, at all times, for your own self defense.

First and foremost, you need a cell phone. Imagine yourself on a dark, lonely road with car trouble in the middle of the night. Imagine being locked in the trunk of a car. You could use a cell phone to summon help. Be smart and hide it on your person and don't let any would-be attackers know that you have it.

Carry a folding knife. Some will tell you to keep it where you can use it for self-defense. While this may be a good idea, it turns into a very bad idea if you aren't strong enough to keep your attacker from taking it away from you. Instead, put it in your back pocket, where you could reach it in the event that your hands are tied behind you to cut through bindings. Keep it sharp.

Keep a small flashlight on your key ring. Criminals hate light, and if you have one, and you shine it on them, you may just prevent an attack. It will also aid you when you are entering dark areas, where there is no light switch to flick. You can shine the light in the dark area to see if it is safe to be in.

If you walk a great deal, carry a walking stick or a cane even if you don't need it. It makes a great weapon. Also consider carrying pepper spray or mace. With these types of tools, however, remember that they do you absolutely no good at the bottom of your purse. Keep them in your hand.

Also, carry a small notepad and pen. This is useful if you need to write down descriptions of people or license plate numbers. You can carry some of these tools in a fanny pack that goes around your waist easily. The worst thing that you can do is to find yourself in a bad situation, with nothing but your wits between you and your attacker!

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Knowing how to defend yourself is great, and it is something that everybody should learn how to do. Avoiding being attacked altogether, however, is even better, and of course, it is safer.

First, avoid places where an attack may occur without notice by others. This includes dark streets and alleys, abandoned parking lots, and other underpopulated areas. If you must venture into such areas, make sure that you do not go alone.

Be aware of your surroundings, and listen to your gut instincts. Safety is not always convenient. If you must go out of your way to avoid putting yourself in danger - do so! No appointment or destination is more important than your safety.

Many of us spend our spare moments on the cell phone, looking at our PDAs, or even relaxing with our MP3 players and headphones. While all of these devices are wonderful, they can distract us from what is happening around us. Your surroundings need your attention more, and if you have headphones on, you won't hear any "out of the ordinary" noises. Put off using these devices until you are in an area where you really are safe.

If there is a great deal of walking involved to reach your destination, wear shoes that you can run in, and carry those sling back heels in your bag. It's hard to get away from an attacker in high heels.

Avoid flashing things that may be of great interest to a thief. This includes electronic devices, purses, wallets, and jewelry. This doesn't mean that you can't carry these items; it just means that you should be discreet with them. You don't want these items to attract unwanted attention.

Overall, use common sense. If you feel like you are venturing into dangerous territory, turn around and go back. If you feel like you are being followed, get to a safe place as fast as you can. If you are being watched, call for help or change locations. Don't feel like you are being paranoid or foolish. You are simply trying to avoid being attacked!

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