History
Joanne Factor began training at the Feminist Karate Union (est. 1971), one of the organizations that invented our modern concept of women's self-defense. After assisting her teachers with community self-defense classes, Joanne began offering a quarterly course through the University of Washington's Women's Center in 1996. Other classes (through the UW Experimental College, North Seattle Community College, Discover U, South Seattle Community College, and others) plus many specially organized through community and business groups followed. In 2003 Joanne expanded her offerings and formed Strategic Living as a business. The simple concept behind Strategic Living is to inform women of the multitude of safety options open to them, and empower them to use those best for them.
Specialties
Self-Defense for Women: All classes, whether a few hours or weeks in length, have 4 components: recognizing when someone is targeting you; interrupting their dastardly plans and preventing an assault; fast, effective physical skills to shut down an assailant and give you a get-away; and self-care to deal with the emotional trauma after any assault. Classes available to the general public, community groups, and businesses. Self-Defense for Teen Girls Only: Specifics on the risks facing girls as they become more independent. Safety Skills for Kids: Age-appropriate safety skills for younger children (girls and boys). Includes material for parents on what child predators are looking for and how they operate. Speaking: Joanne Factor is available to speak to your group or business on self-defense and safety issues.