10 Self-Defense Strategies Everyone Should Know

Self-defense is about more than just Punching and kicking. It's about using your head as well as your fists, and being prepared mentally as well as physically. These 10 self-defense strategies are simple but effective, and can be used by anyone in a real-life situation.

1. Trust Your Instincts

If something doesn't feel right, it probably isn't. Trust your gut and get out of there if you can. That little voice in the back of your head is there for a reason, so trust it and get out of there 

2. Practice Target Denial

Make yourself a difficult target for an attacker by keeping aware of your surroundings and not isolating yourself. Be mindful of your surroundings and keep your guard up. Attackers are looking for someone who seems weak and vulnerable, so don't let that be you 

3. Present Yourself With Confidence

Walk with purpose and make eye contact. This will make you appear more confident and less like a victim. Stand tall with your shoulders back. This will show that you're not afraid and that you're not an easy target.

4. Set Strong Verbal Boundaries

Let potential attackers know that you're not an easy target by speaking in a strong, assertive voice. Tell them firmly to stop and back away from you. Yelling "help" can also attract attention and help deter the attacker.

5. Maintain A Non-Confrontational Stance

Avoid appearing confrontational or aggressive, as this can escalate the situation.

6. Keep A Safe Distance

If possible, keep a safe distance from potential attackers. This will give you time to react if an attack does occur. If they manage to get close, use elbows, knees, or other sharp objects to jab at them and create some distance between you two again.

7. Use The Element Of Surprise

If you are attacked, use the element of surprise to your advantage and fight back with everything you've got. This will throw them off balance and give you a chance to escape or call for help 

8. Keep Your Techniques Simple

Complex self-defense moves may look impressive, but they can be difficult to execute in a real-life situation under duress. Stick to simple techniques that you can remember and execute quickly. 

9. Don’t Panic If You’re Knocked Down

Once you're down, it can be tempting to give up, but don't panic – fight back! It's possible that during an attack, the attacker may knock you down to the ground. This doesn't mean all is lost – there are still ways to fight back from this position. Try kneeing them in the groin, elbowing them in the face, or using any sharp objects nearby to jab at them.

10. Follow Through

Once you've escaped or disengaged from an attacker, follow through by getting to a safe place and calling the police if necessary. 

Being prepared with some basic self-defense strategies can mean all the difference if you find yourself in a dangerous situation. Learning self-defense is about gaining the skills and confidence to defend yourself in any situation, but it's also about peace of mind knowing that you have the ability to take care of yourself should the need ever arise. If you would like to learn how to defend yourself, visit Life Martial Arts at 48 Mccoy St, Myaree, or 8/21 Joondalup Drive Edgewater in Perth. Our martial arts classes are designed for pre-schoolers, middle-schoolers, teens, and adults.