Self-Defense - Do You Need It?

Ladies, do you need to know how to defend yourself when faced with a dangerous situation? Here are some simple tips to prevent a potential crime happening to you... and you do not have to be a martial artist to do it!

The crime rate in my city is on the rise. Some victims of such crimes like muggings and purse snatching are people I know personally. Sadly though, women seem to be prime targets.

Does one need to study the martial arts to know how to defend oneself? Such knowledge would definitely help but prevention and awareness is also a very integral part of self defense. The good news is you do not need to attend a martial arts class for this. Here are some basic tips to keep yourself safe :-

1. For ladies, always walk with your handbag away from the road. That makes it difficult for motorcycle snatch-thieves to attempt a grab. Walk against traffic if possible so you can see what is coming towards you and react if you sense danger.

2. Do not walk through deserted and quiet alleys (especially in the dark) even though they present a shortcut to your destination.

3. Be aware of your surroundings when going in or getting out of your car. There has been instances where people were robbed or car-jacked during such moments, especially in basement car-parks. Be aware of any suspicious characters that may be lurking in the shadows. If you suspect anything, request someone, a security guard for eg; to accompany you. Better to be safe than sorry.

4. And yes, lock all doors immediately after you get into your car! You cannot imagine how many people actually do it! Most people forget. Perpetrators can attempt to get into your car through the passenger doors when you are stopped at traffic lights or road junctions.

5. If you feel you are being stalked by a stranger on the street, walk straight to public places where there are crowds of people. Walk to a policeman if you have to and let him know your situation. If you are being stalked while driving, drive quickly to the nearest police station.

6. Ladies, keep a non lethal weapon in your handbag for emergencies. A stun gun or pepper spray is useful (if it is legal in your country of course). Everyday things like your carkeys and comb can also be weapon to stab or scratch an assailant. A whistle or personal alarm can act as a deterrent to a would-be robber. Pointy ladies’ shoes or heels can be a devastating weapon when targeted at an assailant’s kneecap or groin with a swift kick!

7. When cornered by an assailant in close quarters, and you have no choice but fight back, aim for weak targets such as the groin, throat, nose, eyes, etc, and strike when the opportunity arises. Notably, martial arts training in such instances would be valuable. However, even for someone untrained, you may have to fight back if your life depended on it.

I am told that the average assailant will back off women who are willing to fight back and show that they are not easily intimidated. They feel that it is not worth their effort to tangle with someone who will not submit.

However, I am advocating that women fight back only when they know that they will be harmed whether they submit or not. In that instance, they have no way out. On the other hand, if the assailant is a common mugger who only wants your wallet, surrender it to avoid any untoward harm to yourself. Sometimes, it is not worth fighting back for a few dollars.

My intention is really to say that alertness, awareness and some basic common sense, will go a long way in deterring a potential crime from happening to you. Still, do check out a martial arts class in your area if possible. Besides getting some knowledge in self-defense, you will also get a healthy workout and make new friends!