7 Self Defense Tips You Need to Know

It’s 10 pm, it’s dark and you need to get home. It’s only two blocks away but do you walk or do you spend money on a cab?

Many of us feel uneasy walking alone, gripping keys tightly in hand and holding bags close, on alert for the smallest noise behind us. Usually, we turn to find a harmless passer-by or a lonely possum, but there are times it’s something more sinister.

Are you confident that you could successfully ward off an attacker unscathed?

Read on for 7 self defense tips that will help you feel confident and safe!

1. Ward off an Attack With Assured Body Language

Before diving into the logistics of defending yourself, make sure you’re giving off the right signals. Improve your body language by walking with purpose: tall, shoulders down, eye contact, and chin up. Download security apps to alert people if you are in danger.

2. Know When to Defend Yourself

Wherever possible try to exit the situation and avoid a confrontation that may lead to violence. Try to negotiate, moving to a public venue, or run away. But go with your gut instinct and if you feel like you are in danger, this is when it’s time to bust out some steadfast self defense!

3. Know How to Defend Yourself

If a negotiation has failed, it’s time to use some of our top self defense tips. Grab the attacker’s hand with yours, then use your other hand to do damage to your attacker. If you don’t have a hand free, use the strength in your legs to push away from them.

4. Cause Absolute Chaos

Make it difficult for the attacker and they may get spooked and run away. Shout as loud as you can and don’t be afraid to kick out, pull hair, and spit. Invest in some self defense accessories like attack alarms to help you draw attention to the situation.

5. Aim for the Sensitive Spots

Although the classic move is the punch to the face, it’s not always the most effective, especially if your attacker is much quicker, bigger, or stronger than you.

Some of the best self defense strategies involve aiming for the attackers weaker areas, try targetting any of the following:

  • Eyes
  • Ears
  • Nose
  • Throat
  • Knees
  • Last but not least, a swift kick between the legs

6. Learn to Clench Your Hand Correctly

One of the most misunderstood parts of self defense is how to make a fist. Do not make the mistake of tucking your thumb into the fist, this will only lead to a softer blow and a fractured thumb.

For a safe and effective fist, place your thumb across the index and middle finger, between the first and second knuckles down from the fingernail.

7. Take Classes in Self Defense

The most effective way to feel secure in your ability to defend yourself is to get coaching from a professional. Krav Maga is one of the most effective forms of self defense class, it is a physical and mental discipline designed with real-world scenarios in mind. Some of the benefits of Krav Maga are that it will improve your physical conditioning, increase your awareness and you will gain confidence.

Follow These Self Defense Tips Today!

Now that you’ve got some of the basic self defense tips, it’s time to put them into action. Grab a pillow to practice your punch, and sign up for a beginners online Krav Maga class!

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