8 Self-Defense Techniques You Need To Know
In December, a young woman went missing in the area where I live. She was gone for over 20 days before being thankfully found by her father. Her story, which involved a harrowing experience of being held against her will, served as a sobering reminder of the dangers many of us face, particularly as women.
The reality is that not everyone we encounter has good intentions. Some may want to harm or even endanger us, and women are often targets. While there are many ways to look out for one another—waiting with a friend until their car starts, walking together at night, or staying on the phone with someone until they’re safe—these measures are not always enough.
To truly protect ourselves, we need to learn practical self-defense skills. Knowing how to respond in a dangerous situation could mean the difference between escaping unharmed or becoming a victim. Here are eight self-defense techniques everyone should know:
1. Identify the Weak Spot in a Grab
When someone grabs your wrist, there’s always a weak spot in their grip. Look for the small gap where their fingers don’t fully meet. Twist your arm toward that gap to break free. This simple but effective move can create the opportunity to escape. Practice this technique with a friend or family member to be ready if the situation ever arises. Remember, self-defense doesn’t have to be complicated to be effective.
2. Create Space in a Hair Pull
If someone grabs your hair, especially close to the scalp, the instinctive reaction might be to pull away—but that could make it worse. Instead, place one of your hands between their grip and your scalp to create space. This reduces their control over you and allows you to push their hand away while stepping back to distance yourself.
3. Use Your Elbows
Elbows are one of the strongest and most effective tools for self-defense, especially in close-quarters situations. Strike your attacker in vulnerable areas such as their stomach, ribs, or face. Elbows are harder to block than punches and can deliver enough force to create an opening for you to escape.
4. Target Vulnerable Areas
If you’re in a situation where you need to defend yourself, focus on the most sensitive areas of the attacker’s body: the eyes, nose, throat, and groin. Striking these areas can disorient or incapacitate them, allowing you to get away. Remember, your goal is not to fight but to escape.
5. Use Your Voice
Do not hesitate to yell or scream. Loudly shouting phrases like “Get away from me!” or even calling out for help can alert others to your situation and potentially scare off your attacker. Your voice is a powerful tool, which can disrupt their plan and draw attention to what’s happening.
6. Turn to Face Your Attacker
If someone comes up behind you, step to the side and turn to face them. This motion helps you regain control of the situation and keeps you balanced. Facing your attacker allows you to defend yourself more effectively and clearly conveys you are prepared to protect yourself.
7. Escape Is the Priority
Your ultimate goal in any dangerous encounter is to get away safely. Self-defense isn’t about winning a fight but creating the opportunity to escape. Once you’ve disrupted your attacker’s plan, use that moment to run to safety and call for help. Never feel obligated to stay and fight if you can safely leave the situation.
8. Use Everyday Objects as Tools
Everyday items like keys, pens, or screwdrivers can double as self-defense tools if used correctly. Hold the object firmly in your fist with the pointed end sticking out from the bottom of your hand—not between your knuckles. This grip provides better control and allows you to use it effectively to jab sensitive areas like the eyes, throat, or hands.
Self-defense is a skill that everyone should learn. While we hope never to face situations where these techniques are needed, being prepared is crucial. As my mom always says, it’s better to look stupid and like you overreact rather than be severely hurt or dead. Take the time to practice these moves, stay aware of your surroundings, and trust your instincts. Prioritizing your safety is not just important—it’s essential.