8 Important Self Defense Tips Everyone Should Know

Do you know what you would do if you found yourself under attack?

Every year in the United States, millions of people face assault. Men are more likely than women to experience all types of violent crimes. Yet, women are sexually assaulted more often than men.

So, knowing how to defend yourself is important no matter who you are. You don’t have to have extensive training in martial arts to ward off attackers, either. Below, we’ll go into our top 8 self defense tips. Keep reading to learn more about protecting yourself!

1. Stay Aware of Your Surroundings

One of the most important self defense tips is to stay aware of your surroundings. When you walk somewhere, take note of the way people behave around you.

This will give you a greater awareness of what constitutes typical behavior. You might also spot suspicious activity. If you see something concerning, alert the authorities. If you believe you’re in danger, call 911 and ask for help from the people around you.

2. Pick Out Possible Escapes

If you walk a specific route often, identify potential places you can escape to.

This can include heavily populated shops or areas where you can ask for help or blend into the crowd. It can also include alternate routes to your destination.

3. Don’t Use the Same Route Every Time

Sometimes, attackers target people after watching them for a period of time.

So, you shouldn’t use the same route every day. Instead, alternate your routes.

4. Carry a Weapon

If your area allows you to carry a weapon, consider doing so.

The weapons don’t have to be lethal, either. Even carrying pepper spray can save your life.

5. De-Escalate

If someone hasn’t yet tried to grab you, de-escalate the situation.

Hand over your wallet or whatever else the person asks for. Speak in a calm manner and don’t respond to the attacker if they’re hurling insults at you.

6. Assume a Supportive Stance

As soon as it becomes apparent that you’ll have to defend yourself, assume a supportive stance. Spread your legs apart and evenly distribute your weight. Keep a slight bend in your knees.

This will make it harder for someone to knock you over. You’ll also have an easier time maneuvering.

7. Self Defense Tips for Breaking Free from a Hold

If the person grabs your arm, swing downward, in the direction of their thumb.

This is the weakest point of the hold. Combine this motion with a scream or yell to startle the attacker and scare them away.

8. Breaking a Choke Hold

If someone grabs you from behind and puts you in a headlock, tuck your chin. Then, pull down on your attacker’s arm. Back out around them.

If you can run, do so. Otherwise, kick, scream, and fight. This will gather the attention of passersby and make it harder for the person to attack you.

Attackers generally go for people who look like they won’t fight. So, if you put up a fight, there’s a chance they may give up and walk away.

Want more advice? Take self defense classes!

Want to Learn More?

Now that you’ve read these self defense tips, you’re more ready to defend both yourself and someone else.

You should practice your self defense moves on a regular basis. Recruit some friends to help you rehearse these moves. That way, you’ll know how much force to use to break free from someone trying to attack you.

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