“It’s a shame that in this world we live in, there’s a threat of an attack,” Hoppe said. “So it’s important to learn how to defend yourself.”

Although MSU’s free defense session has been primarily focused on women and fighting off sexual assaults, men also can benefit from learning how to protect themselves, said Angela Michael, assistant director of Recreational Sports and Fitness Services.

Hoppe said throwing a punch isn’t the only way to end an attack, assessing the situation and possible reactions also is important.

Often, a situation can be de-escalated by aggressively saying “No,” and yelling, Michael said.

Psychology and social work sophomore Emily Koehler, who also instructs MSU’s self-defense program, said walking with determination and paying attention, such as leaving one earbud out to listen for suspicious noises, can help deter attacks.

East Lansing Underground Martial Arts Assistant Coach David Strickland said typically, being very aggressive and not showing fear can help deter an attacker.

“Once the mind goes, the body goes pretty quickly,” Strickland said.

Although self-defense is based on a situation and fighting should be avoided unless an attack is taking place, Hoppe and Koehler said there are basic ways for students to defend themselves.