Hi to all participants. I hope you enjoyed the first class of the 6 week self defense course held at the Degerberg Academy. Here are a few of the key points that we covered.
1) Fighting Stance: snap kick to the groin, finger jab to the eyes or throat, palm strike to the nose or chin, cupped hand slap to the ear or jaw, and knee to the groin, pubic bone or bladder. When practicing these techniques it is important to visualize doing them to an attacker.
2) Spacing: How close do you want to let a stranger get before you move away? This can vary depending on the circumstances, but keep in mind that the more space you have, the more time you have to react to a possible attack.
3) Closing the distance: If someone gives you a bad feeling as they pass you remember to keep moving while you continue to glance over your shoulder. It doesn’t take long to cover 30 feet. They can be on you in just seconds, so before you turn around make sure they are at least half a block away.
4) Looking potential attackers in the eye: This is recommended, but not everyone can do it without a lot of practice, and there is the possibility that they will lock eyes with you and use it as a reason to approach you. If it is a problem for you then look at their chin or throat. They will still feel as though you are watching them, but without giving them a reason to approach you.
5) When practicing the striking techniques in combination for speed it is very important that you not stop to correct a mistake. Get in the habit of finishing the series. You can always go back and do it slowly and correct your mistakes. It is OK to vary the combination.
I would like to suggest a couple of books: “The Survivors Club” by Ben Sherwood and “The Gift of Fear” by Gavin De Becker
