Self Defense Techniques - The 3 Key Secrets
Self defense moves are essential for survival against the daily threat of violence. Don't be the next crime statistic. In this article I share the 3 essential secrets you need to know.
I have studied and trained in martial arts for over ten years but to teach someone ways to survive on the street I rarely go into specific moves such as how to punch or kick. The key points you need to be aware of are as follows -
1) Self Awareness. Martial arts masters like Bruce Lee stressed the importance of self awareness to their students and followers. Firstly, you must understand how you personally will react in violent situations. The adrenalin rush affects us all but some people are able to deal with it and remain calm better than others. Even a highly skilled martial artist trained in an art such as aikido or karate may fall apart under the stress of a real assault. Knowing how you will react is essential.Secondly, you must have awareness of your surroundings and those around you. I call this common sense - it's natural to me - but some may call it a sixth sense! I have been in situations in a bar or club when I can see or hear an argument or confrontation developing or a person simply looking for trouble. In this situation the first option is to get out of the way or be ready to have to respond.
2) Avoid Confrontation. This can take several forms and I will start with avoiding places or situations when you know there is greater chance of violence. The obvious idea is to avoid parts of town, bars, parks, alleyways and other such places where there is a history of violence or where characters likely to be involved in fights and attacks hang out.
For women in particular, I advise constant caution in the situations you put yourself. For example, if you meet a new guy and arrange a date think abut a safe place to meet, somewhere you know and are familiar with. This isn't about living in fear it's about common sense and being realistic about the situations which sadly may occur.For men, the hardest part can be to walk away from an encounter. Egos have put many men in hospital! The best self defense tactic us usually walking away but of course most situations develop into a fight. Even though I have years of martial arts training I never look for a fight - in fact I go out of my way to avoid them.
3) If a fight is the only way out, fight hard. Sadly it isn't always possible to talk or reason your way out of a situation. If alcohol or other drugs are involved this is particularly true. If faced with a gang or group there simply may be no way out other than to fight. In these situations we must be prepared to go in hard with any street fighting or self defense moves we know. Weak and vulnerable areas of the body such as the eyes, nose and groin are obvious target points. In the eyes of the lay there is of course the need to use 'reasonable force' but I take the stance that this is something to worry about afterwards. If faced with someone intent to injure you there is only one way to fight.
