Up to this point we have been discussing theory and mental preparation. As important as those things are, they’re not quite as “fun” as practical application. Today I’ll share some very simple basic self dense moves. Don’t let the phrases “simple” and “basic” fool you. These moves are highly effective and can cause major damage to an attacker. But the simplicity makes them easy to remember and easy to execute. I’d highly recommend you practice a few of these techniques with a trusted friend or family member, but please, exercise caution! You don’t want to violate the trust of this person by sending them to the emergency room. Obviously, this list is not all-inclusive. I refrain from saying “The 10 BEST…” or “The 10 Most Popular…” because I don’t want to be called a liar or incur the wrath of internet trolls. These are 10 basic self defense moves that can help you defend your space.
- Palm strike to the nose or throat: Using the heel of your palm, strike your attacker’s nose or throat with as much force as possible. If you’re not a trained fighter, you want to avoid using a fist as much as possible. There are many little bones in the hand that are easily broken by an incorrect punch. Using the palm of your hand greatly reduces the chance of self injury.
- Eye gouge: Aim for your attacker’s eyes with your fingers or thumbs and try to gouge them out. I’ve mentioned this before, but this is one of the best ways to end an attack. If you know you’re in mortal danger DO NOT hesitate to completely rupture your attackers eye balls!
- Knee to the groin: Lift your knee and strike your attacker’s groin with as much force as possible. Your knee is another essential weapon. It is a large, solid bone attached to one of the strongest muscles in your body. It can be used to cause a massive blunt force strike to sensitive areas like the groin or the inside of your attackers knee.
- Elbow strike: Using your elbow, strike your attacker’s nose, chin, or throat. Just like your knee, your elbow is a sold weapon. If your attacker is up close an elbow strike to the throat or nose will quickly end the attack.
- Escape from a bear hug: In any situation where your attacker is grabbing your body the first thing to do is go completely limp. It is very counter intuitive, but carrying dead weight is very difficult. If you’ve ever carried a large sack of produce, a full bag of laundry, or anything else heavy and jiggly (for lack of a better word) you understand. If you go stiff and rigid your mass because solid and is a lot easier to carry. Once your attacker has let go, or loosened his grip, follow up with any available attack. For example, if you’re now on the ground elbow strike to your attackers knees or groin.
- Escape from a bear hug: If you’re unsuccessful at breaking your attackers grip by going limp, drop your weight down and stomp on the attacker’s foot with your heel. Then, turn and strike the attacker with a palm strike to the nose or throat.
- Escape from a rear choke hold: Use your hands to grab your attacker’s arms and pull them down while turning your head to the side to create space for your airway. Then strike your attacker in the ribs or groin with your elbow repeatedly until he lets go.
- Hair pull defense from the front: Grab your attacker’s wrist with both hands and pull downward while stepping back. Holding their wrist will release the tension on your hair and give you control of the attackers body. This will break their grip on your hair. Follow up with a knee to the groin or palm strike to the nose or throat.
- Escape from a wrist grab: Twist your wrist and pull it away from your attacker’s grip while stepping back. At the same time fire an open hand slap to your attackers face or ear. This will distract them long enough to break free and escape.
- Escape from a headlock: Use your hands to grab the attacker’s arms and pull them down while stepping forward. Then, use your elbow to strike the attacker’s ribs or face.
I pray you never find yourself in a situation where you must use one of these techniques to survive. However, it’s always better to be prepared for a fight that never comes, than be in a fight unprepared. As always, please ask me any questions, leave any comments, or provide any suggestions below.
Be safe.
