nzgirl editor Kate did a self-defence course in high school but she never thought she’d have to use the skills she learned. Find out what happened to her and how you can protect yourself…
Two years ago I was walking to a taxi rank (at night) when I was approached by a man asking for the time. I gave it to him and sped up my pace but he kept following me. Scared, I crossed the road but he stayed behind me. Before I knew what had happened the man had grabbed me from behind and started to pull me off the footpath. I managed to get my arm out from under his and threw a pretty pathetic punch, but it did the trick. He came back at me, but I had my house keys in my hand and got him in the eye. That finally got rid of him, and I ran the rest of the way home.
I was lucky to get out of that situation with only a twisted arm…it could have been much worse. My self-defence training helped me to get over the fear and protect myself – and the keys were a good defence tool too!
Here are some tips to help you stay safe if you’re out alone…
1. Consider Self-Defence Training
Self defence courses are a fantastic way to build your confidence and get a few skills under your belt in case you find yourself in a confrontational situation. Most women’s self-defence will teach you a combination of basic martial arts and defence techniques. Look for a programme that includes simulated assaults so you can practice what you’ve learned.
2. Be Aware
Self defence starts with being aware of your environment and the people that are in it. Attackers will often choose victims who appear to be unaware of what is going on around them. The element of surprise is the biggest advantage an attacker can have over their victim, so make sure you stay alert to your surroundings and listen for any unusual noises as you walk.
3. Trust your Senses
They say you should always trust your gut instinct and they’re right! Your intuition is a powerful inbuilt tool and can help keep you away from dangerous situations. As a woman, you have a strong “sixth sense”, so it’s important that you trust your intuition…especially if you are alone, and always avoid people and situations that “don’t feel right”.
4. Avoid confrontation
If you find yourself in a confrontational situation, talk to the other person as calmly as possible so as not to provoke them. You may be feeling more scared than you’ve ever felt before, but showing that fear could send the would-be attacker over the edge. If possible, keep some space between you and the aggressor at all times.
5. Always Have a Tool Handy
I used my keys as a defence tool, but an umbrella, pen, heavy bag or heavy book will work just as well. Before you go out, check that you have a tool that you can use to defend yourself in your bag. A personal alarm is also a handy tool to have in your bag. These alarms emit a loud, piercing sound, giving the attacker a fright and draw attention to you.
6. Defending Yourself
If you find yourself in a situation where you must fight back before you can get away, take the “bash and dash” approach. You want to get the attacker in the eyes, nose, mouth, ears, throat, crotch, knees, shins or feet –whichever is easiest to get to. If the attacker is holding you from behind, throw your body backwards or try to stomp on their foot as hard as possible.
7. Escape is Your Best Option
The rush of adrenalin that hits when you are scared or in danger can make you freeze with fear, but you have to work to overcome that feeling and get out of the situation. You are more likely to be hurt if you go with someone than if you run away, so try to get your limbs moving or yell as loudly as you can. Do whatever you can to attract attention – it could save your life.
More Safety Tips:
Check out the NZ Police website: www.police.govt.nz/safety/inpublicplaces (PDF)
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