Streetwise Self Defense

At a glance..

This file has been written for those of us who do not want to take up the martial arts as a sport, but who would like to be able to defend ourselves in a potentially dangerous situation. This course is intended to teach you to cope with practical situations, i.e. circumstances in which you may actually find yourself. You may not aspire to a black belt, but you will learn how to defend yourself effectively in a emergency.

The details..

Self defence becomes more important every year. Yet the traditional Martial Arts demand a physical fitness and understanding of complex techniques which are beyond most of us. Here is a new and practical system which recognises our limitations - it is quick and easy to learn because it is based on adopting one move to a variety of defensive situations.

The system assumes that the defence will be against a more powerful attacker, so practice what you would do in serious situations with your partner, slowly at first then building speed and power without them before practising body contact together. There are also some general ground rules when confronted by an assailant: try conversation if possible, look them in the eye etc.

Section 3(1) of the Criminal Law Act 1967 states that 'a person may use reasonable force in prevention of crime', covering self defence, defending another or property. What's considered reasonable depends on circumstances but remember not to let yourself be cornered! Shock tactics such as screaming can throw attackers off balance too.

When attacking vulnerable areas like eyes or groin always direct punches/kicks only at marked points otherwise they won't affect your assailant properly - these should form part of your stance along with balancing weight equally between legs & keeping arms up angled towards chest/chin.