The Beginner’s Guide to Self-Defense and Staying Safe

There is no denying the fact that we live in a scary world. We spend most of our childhood being protected from this knowledge, but eventually we all grow up and realize the truth. Of course, this doesn’t mean everyone and everything is out to get you. For the most part, people are moral and good. Still, it’s important to be prepared for those who aren’t.

Everything You Need to Know About Protecting Yourself

In our article today, we are going to be discussing all the basics of self-defense and staying safe. This information should prepare you for whatever might come your way. We will be talking about everything from martial arts to carrying protection. If you feel scared about the outside world but want to empower yourself and conquer your fears, then you should keep reading to find out more.

Breaking the Victim Mindset

You are much more likely to be attacked if you present yourself as weak. Predators usually target someone who looks meek or unobservant. As such, it’s important to break that victim mindset. Even if you are physically smaller than most people, you aren’t helpless. It’s good to emanate self-confidence because attackers want someone who will go down without a fight. So, we recommend walking around (particularly at night-time) with purpose.

Be Aware of Your Surroundings

As we mentioned before, predators tend to pick off prey that is unobservant or unassuming. If you want to protect yourself, then you should always be aware. Don’t play loud music when you are walking at night-time or become engrossed in your mobile phone. Keep an eye on the people around you and what they are doing. It is also very important to watch your drink when you’re at a bar. Try covering the glass with your hand so nobody can slip anything in whilst you aren’t looking.

Sticking with Other People

If you are travelling at night-time, you should always stick with other people. Partner up with some friends and agree to share a ride home. At the very least, make sure somebody knows where you are at all times. Predators are far more likely to pick off somebody who is alone – and that’s why recommend strength in numbers. It’s also important to keep a mobile phone on hand, so you can quickly call someone if you are in trouble.

Trusting Your Instincts

You should always trust your instincts. Sometimes, we override our gut feelings in a dodgy situation because we don’t want to appear paranoid or rude. However, predators rely on your good nature. Even if you are wrong about a scenario, it doesn’t matter because you can easily apologise after. But more often than not, when something feels off, that’s because it is.

Avoid Certain Areas

Though it’s easier to take a shortcut instead of going the long way around, this isn’t a wise choice. Shortcuts tend to be in areas that are dark and remote, making them hotspots for criminal activity. Don’t go near them at night-time. It’s important to walk in places that are well-lit and frequently populated by other people. Parks and alleys are a no-go. Instead, stick to streets with streetlamps, where cars drive past regularly.

Getting Transport Home

If you are going to be leaving by the time it’s dark, then you need to plan ahead and figure out how you will get home. Make sure you always have enough cash on hand for a taxi or bus; check the transport timetables, so you don’t inadvertently miss the final train. This means you won’t be alone and vulnerable and lost during the night-time.

Learning Martial Arts

We have spoken a lot about how to avoid getting in trouble – but what if something happens despite your best efforts? To prepare yourself for these circumstances, we recommend learning the martial arts for self-defense. The martial arts aren’t about being physically stronger than the opponent. Instead, they’re about using smarts and technique to overcome the attacker. For example, learning judo for self-defense is perfect for those with a smaller stature because it can protect them against any body type – strong, weak, big, or small.

Targeting Weak Spots

Everyone has the same weak spots. If you are being attacked, then you need to target these areas when fighting against the assailant. This will give you the upper hand, allowing you to run away. But what are these weak spots? Well, the groin is particularly vulnerable. It’s also worth punching the windpipe because this will leave your attacker unable to breathe. Jamming your fingers into their eyeballs is a viable option, too. Some other weak spots include the nose (drive the base of your palm into their nose with an upward motion), the kneecap, the foot, the ear, the armpit or solar plexus (which is the soft spot just below the sternum).

Delivering Blows

When delivering blows to your assailant, you should avoid using the parts of your body which can easily break. For example, a poorly formed first could result in your hand being broken. This could incapacitate you in a fight. Instead, use things like your elbows and knees. The bone is hard, making it less likely to break and allowing you to deliver a painful blow.

Creating an Escape Plan

Don’t try to finish your opponent off. If you have the chance to run, you should take it. Your pride or personal possessions will never be more important than your life. To increase your likelihood of escaping, make sure to shout out for help and attract as much attention as possible. This will usually spook the attacker. Learn how to break constricting holds. For instance, twisting your arm in a downward circle will usually break the attacker’s hold on your wrist.

You Are Ready to Take on The World

Now you know all the basics on self-defense and staying safe, you should be sufficiently protected from whatever might come your way. If you’re still concerned, we recommend taking self-defense classes and doing some strength training.