Self-defence is the use of physical or verbal force to protect oneself or others from harm.
Reasonable Force
Self-defence
is all about using the right amount
of force
needed to protect yourself. Think of it as using just enough strength to keep
an attacker at bay without overstepping.
Imminent Threat
It is essential to recognize a real and present danger. Self-defence is applicable when there is an immediate threat—not something that happened in the past or could happen in the future.
Protection of Self or Others
The
heart of self-defence is about safeguarding yourself or someone nearby from
harm, whether it is a physical assault or a threat to personal safety.
Necessity and Last Resort
Remember,
self-defence should be your last option. When there are no other ways out, you
take action to protect your well-being.
Non-Aggressor Principle
Self-defence
is meant for
protection,
not aggression. Self-defence is not a valid excuse if you are the one starting
the fight. However, you are permitted to use pre-emptive force to prevent an
attack from occurring, but you must have a valid justification for doing so.
For example, if someone tightens their hands and is about to hurl a punch, you
may intervene first to restrain them.
Palm-Heel Strike
The
palm-heel strike is a straightforward move that's incredibly effective. Target
the attacker's face, aiming for the nose or chin, with the heel of your palm.
It's powerful and keeps your fingers safe from injury.
Steps:
·
Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart.
·
Lift your dominant hand, bending your arm at the elbow.
·
Thrust your palm forward towards the attacker's nose.
·
Follow through with your body for added force.
Benefits:
·
It is simple to execute and can cause significant discomfort,
giving you a chance to escape.
Elbow Strike
The
elbow strike is your go-to move when someone is too close for comfort. It is
one of the strongest strikes, thanks to the hard bone of your elbow.
Steps:
·
Bend your arm, keeping your elbow near your body.
·
Twist your torso and swing your elbow into the attacker's face or
chest.
·
Use your other arm to shield your face.
Benefits:
·
Highly effective at close range with the potential to cause
significant damage.
Escape from Wrist Grab
Facing
a wrist grab? This move is all about technique, not strength. Focus on breaking
free by targeting the attacker's thumb—their grip's weakest point.
Steps:
·
Rotate your wrist towards the attacker's thumb.
·
Pull your wrist away sharply, using your other hand if necessary.
·
Step back to create distance.
Benefits:
·
It uses leverage, making it ideal for women of all sizes.
Foot Stomp
The
foot stomp is an easy yet impactful move, perfect for when you are in close
quarters with an attacker. Target the sensitive bones in the foot to cause
pain.
Steps:
·
Lift your knee and stomp down hard on the attacker's foot with
your heel.
·
Aim for the arch for maximum impact.
Benefits:
· It causes enough pain to provide an opportunity to escape.
·
Start slow: Focus on
form to ensure effectiveness.
·
Increase speed gradually: Once
comfortable, add speed and power.
·
Regular practice: Build
muscle memory by practising consistently.
·
Use a partner: Practice
with someone or under guidance.
·
Control your breathing: Stay calm
and focused.
·
Escape mindset: Remember,
the goal is to escape. Use your voice to shout for help and deter attackers.
7 Self-Defence Techniques for
Women from Professionals
Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T7aNSRoDCmg
5 Self-Defence Moves Every Woman Should Know | HER Network
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KVpxP3ZZtAc
Self-Defence For Dummies Cheat Sheet
8 Self-Defence Moves Every Woman Needs to Know
https://www.healthline.com/health/womens-health/self-defense-tips-escape
5 Self-Defence Techniques and Tips Everyone
Should Know
https://www.ktma.sg/blog/5-self-defence-techniques-and-tips-everyone-should-know/
10 Self-Defence Strategies Every Woman Needs
To Know: Practical strategies for avoiding, detecting, and surviving a violent
street attack
https://www.girlswhofight.co/post/ten-self-defense-strategies-women-need-to-know
Infographic - Self-Defence Techniques for
Women
https://online.hilbert.edu/blog/self-defense-techniques-for-women/
Learn Basic Self-Defence Moves &
Techniques
Guide with videos https://www.howcast.com/guides/1064-basic-self-defense-moves
Empower Yourself: 10 Essential Self-Defence
Tips for Women
https://crimestoppersmetroal.org/empower-yourself-10-essential-self-defense-tips-for-women/