Self-defense in Philly?

(I'm posting this to a few boards, so sorry if you keep coming across it!) Ok, so I'm walking through the park this morning, enjoying the birdsong and how good it feels to move on a spring-like day...and I'm deep enough in there that I can't hear the streets at all...and no one is around till some guy starts coming up behind on a bicycle. I step toward one side of the path and keep walking. He says: "How ya doing?" I say: "Hi." Next thing, he's beside me. I keep walking. He says: "So, have you seen anyone else around here?" WTF? ME (still walking): "Yeah, I have." HE: "But not recently, right?" WTF??? My keys are in my pocket...a heavy bottle filled with water and ice in my bag...I can use these if I have to... So I take a couple big steps away, because he's just too damn close, look him dead in the eye, and demand, "Why are you asking?" HE: "Oh - uh - no reason." So, I take another couple big steps, look him over top to bottom, and say, with all the attitude I can muster: "Is there someone I should be watching for?" HE: "uuuhhhh...no." I stare hard for another couple seconds, then turn and keep walking. To my relief, he went back the other way. F*king hell!! I am not giving up my walks through the park or anywhere else I want to go! Does anyone know of any self-defense classes in Philadelphia? Preferably those designed for women, but anything anyone can recommend will be appreciated. I tried WAVE, but their classes are on hiatus. I also called WOAR, the PPD, the Y, William Way, and my gym. Nothing! So, I'm trying my groups and boards now. If anyone knows who else I might contact, I'll be most grateful if you'll respond here or privately. Thanks.

Oh, how scary, Lisa!! I would have Sh*t my pants. You handled it well. Glad nothing happened. I have no idea about where to go for self defense classes. I can't believe the PPD cannot help you or the Y. WTF???? They have to know somewhere. It's Philly for crying out loud. I feel so safe in my town, I have never considered self defense. It is such a small rural town where everyone beeps and waves to everyone. Very comfortable feeling. Hope you are able to find something and so glad that nothing happened to you. Hugs, Tabby

Oh Lisa, I am so glad you didn't get hurt or anything!! I can't believe you can't find a self defense class. The PPD absolutely floors me!!!! If I can think of anything, I will let you know. Holly

Mercy!!!! Glad you are okay Lisa!! Thank goodness you were able to intimidate the guy until he backed off. WHEW! Most predators don't like people who assert themselves, but it's still a risky thing to try as you never know who you are dealing with. As for a self defense class....have you called the karate places in town? Sometimes they teach self defense classes with basic techniques designed to help you fend off an attacker and get to safety. The last time I took one was in college, so I know I'm a bit rusty with my so called skills. Hope you are able to find something!!! Susan

Lisa, I'm in amazment of you, so proud of you, to have the guts to stand up to this person took balls. I've heard that that is one of the first lines of defense, staring at them and confronting them. I can't beleive the ppd had no classes for you or information on these classes. And the "y" did'nt either? That's amazing. Have you looked into any karate classes? How about doing a web surf on defense classes in your area, the yellow pages. Stay stong and stay protected. Get your self some pocket sized mase donna, sfy

Thanks, Everyone! Someone suggested a group to me that operates out of NY, but does classes in Philly. They have a workshop coming up May 5, which I signed up for. I wi**** were sooner, though. Or I hope I do find something sooner. I've had other suggestions too. I used the response I did because I knew I couldn't outrun him. I had a self-defense class back in my 20s, but I and my body have been through a lot since then! A woman I spoke to on the phone about the self defense workshop said that studies have shown attackers often do "interview" potential victims first...well, I am safe and wasn't hurt, so I guess whatever I did, it was right. It shook me though...I'll probably say more on that later... Lisa

lisa, glad to hear that you are ok, and that you were able to keep him at bay. one question though. did you report the incident to the police? i don't know much about the city parks, other than the one by the hospital that my husband and i walk through and feed the squirells in(after window shopping on sansome street of course), but i always have noticed a lot of police on bicycles there. if you haven't yet reported it, i would recommend doing so. and i certainly don't blame you for not wanting to give up your walks in the park. i agree you should carry mace. take care of yourself, and be aware of your surrondings at all times. patricia

Patricia, the Philadelphia police don't care about such things. I am a rape survivor and I know this from experience. There is no way I will ever put myself through a day with the Philadelphia police again. Lisa

OMGOSH How scary!! I am so glad to hear you are ok!!! The classes sound like the best plan of action!!! Let us know how it goes!! Felicia

OMG how scary. I am so glad you are ok. I am glad you found a class as well. WOW you are right you must have given him the idea you were not an easy target with what you said. Good job! get some rest and have some tea for the nerves Melissa