We rarely think about self-defense or bad things that may happen to us, such as getting robbed, encountering an armed person, etc. Doing so frequently would probably make a person paranoid, pessimistic, and too cautious. In addition, bad things usually strike you out of nowhere so it is impossible to be 100 percent prepared for them. However, you may keep a few tips in mind that can help you run away from someone who is trying to hurt you. These tips will not replace a professional training, but they will make you more prepared and help you escape potentially deadly situations.
10 Self-Defense Tips That Can Save Your Life
1. Engage Your Senses
People usually keep their senses sharp when they are walking alone in the dark. But, you should be aware of your surroundings, always. Someone may intercept you during the short trip from the supermarket to your car. Your senses are your first line of defense. Scan your surroundings, and be aware of the things happening around you. If you ever get that weird gut feeling, listen to it. If an area or a situation seems off, then it probably is. By using your senses you may prevent a dangerous person from approaching you by running away or calling for help on time.
2. Stay Calm
Staying calm when someone is threatening you with a weapon sounds like a very stupid advice. But, it is the right thing to do. Self-defense trainers advise their students to always remain calm and assertive. It is completely normal to be frightened, but mask your fear with anger and dominance. Attackers are not used to being stood up to. You will definitely surprise them and have a higher chance of escaping.
On the other hand, showing fear and weakness will only provoke the attacker further. They will feel empowered by seeing your weaknesses and this may motivate them to hurt you.
3. Make Some Noise
If you are in a dark alleyway by yourself, this tip may not be helpful. However, if you are surrounded by people it will definitely come in handy. If you are feeling threatened by someone, make some noise. The more noise you make, the more attention you will attract and probably have someone to step in and help. The traditional way to make noise would be screaming. However, in the world that is ruled by smartphones, there is another solution. “My Panic Alarm” app will turn your phone into a flashing alarm.
4. Let Others Know Your Location
There are several smartphone apps such as “Red Panic Button” or “Stay Safe” that will send your emergency contacts a cry for help and your exact location. The “Stay Safe” app allows you to even enter the expected time of arrival at your destination, and if you do not check-in when the timer hits zero, it will alert all your emergency contacts.
5. Get A Weapon
One of the greatest ways to scare away your attacker is by fighting back. However, if you feel too fragile or too weak to fight, you can always use a weapon. And no, we are not talking about anything large and deadly. Instead, we advise getting a pepper spray or a stun gun. Nowadays, many of these are so small and can be worn as a key chain.
6. Personal Belongings Can Be Used As Weapons
Okay, so you don’t feel like carrying a weapon with you all the time, no worries. You can always use your personal belongings to defend yourself.
- A ballpoint pen can hurt an attacker badly if you stab him in the throat, eyes, or any other vulnerable area.
- Holding the sharp end of your key in your fist will definitely give you extra punching power.
- If you are female, those rings of yours can be quite useful and contribute to the strength of your punch. In addition, there is a shop on Etsy that sells self-defense jewelry.
7. Try To Escape
There is a number of ways someone can ambush you. Some are definitely more binding than others. Take a look at these videos that show you how to escape an assailant easily.
8. Hit Below The Belt
Hit below the belt, both figuratively and literally speaking. If you need to fight back, then fight dirty. Aim for the vulnerable spots such as nose, throat, eyes, knees, and groin.
A blow towards the groin will make everyone involuntarily try to protect it. Any damage done to this area will cause severe pain, even if you miss the target area.
Giving a high-five to the attacker’s nose will stun him without a doubt. Put your hand in a high-five position, push your palm forward and your fingers back and forcefully throw your palm towards the attacker’s nose.
Hitting the base of the throat will block the attacker’s airway and jabbing your fingers into someone’s eyes will temporarily blind the attacker, giving you enough time to escape.
9. Use Your Body
Believe it or not, your body is the greatest weapon that you can have when it comes to self-defense. It takes guts to hurt someone with a pepper spray or a ballpoint pen. Using your body the right way can cause even more damage.
Your fists can do great damage if you use the first two knuckles. The palm of your hand can be used both for blocking and striking.
Forearms can block or deflect any incoming attacks. Elbows are great for striking the assailant if he is close to you.
The most powerful weapons on your body are your legs. You can stomp the attacker’s feet with your heel. But, it is even better to use a powerful blow from your knee to hit them where it counts.
10. Other Self-Defense Tips
Blend In
If you blend in by wearing dull-colored clothing and not waving around with your worthy possessions, you won’t be a target of interest to anyone who is looking forward to hurting people because of money.
Scream The Right Way
Yelling help may not always do you good. Instead, try yelling “911!” or “Attacker!” or anything that will give bystanders a clearer look on what is going on.
Don’t Fight For Your Belongings
If you are being robbed, it is pointless to fight for your belongings. Instead, throw them away from you. It will distract the attacker and give you some time to run away.
Never Stop Moving
If everything else fails, keep in mind that you should never give up and stop moving. Scratch, punch, scream, run. Do whatever it takes to get to safety without thinking twice.
