Everyday Self Defense For Everyday People

Dec. 9, 2010 - PRLog -- When people think of self defense they often think of expensive martial arts programs and investing a lot of time that they simply do not have. The truth is, you do not have to invest years of training or money to become proficient in protecting yourself and loved ones. Often people confuse self-defense with fighting. The goal of fighting is to win. The goal of self-defense is to get away as quickly and as safely as possible by whatever means necessary.

We are living in uncertain times. As the world works to recover from economic turmoil, unemployment rates rise and budget deficits are forcing municipalities to layoff members of their safety forces, there has been no better time to sharpen your self defense skills. The good news is that self-defense is not a mysterious concept taught by some guru in a far away land. We were created with survival instincts and a deep seeded desire for self preservation. Channeling those attributes along with educating ourselves will produce effective results.

The best defense is always prevention. If you avoid or prevent violence before it happens, you may never have to worry about using physical self-defense techniques. If someone does attack you, you must assume that your life is in danger. This is when rules, courtesy and social graces are thrown out the window. In such instances, you must be in touch with your natural instincts or what I like to call your “inner animal.” When cornered, an animal does whatever necessary to survive. It uses its natural weapons to strike quickly and efficiently. You must do the same.

I like using the K.I.S.S. method which stands for, Keep It Simple Stupid. Martial arts are fantastic but many are weighed down with complicated forms, rituals and numerous moves that are hard to remember unless you devote yourself to the art. When your life is in danger, you need to resort to natural instinctive movements that can be recalled in a moments notice. Just like a trapped animal, you have multiple weapons at your disposal such as your hands, feet, elbows and teeth. When your safety is compromised, leave your good manners behind and react quickly. Success in self defense is measured by surviving a confrontation not by style. Do whatever it takes to survive!

A good starting point is to learn the vital points of the body. Although there are many, I focus on six for simplicity. This is referred to as the “center-line principal.” Draw an imaginary line down the middle of the human body. Here you will find the most vulnerable areas of the body to attack such as the eyes, nose, throat, sternum, solar plexus and groin. There is a myriad of ways to deliver strikes to these areas. You can use a fist, knife hand, open palm, kick, elbows, etc. When it comes to self-defense, there is no right or wrong way. Don’t worry about style. Strike fast and strike hard.



Self-defense doesn’t have to cost a fortune or consume all of your time. Find an instructor in your area that specializes in self defense or a reality based martial art to get some basic hands on instruction. Find a partner, buy a used punching bag, read books, research on-line, join forums. In this age of technology, the resources are abundant. Building your skill set through education, practicing when possible and using your survival instincts will get you well on your way to living life more confidently.


Jason Ratcliff owns Empower Defense and Life Skills LLC, a self-defense and personal development company in Ohio. He is a 15 year law enforcement veteran currently assigned to the patrol division. Jason can be contacted thru his website at www.EmpowerDLS.com or 614-989-9644.

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