About half of the content of this blog has been about self defense issues and the rest have been about general karate topics. While I review many things, I want you to know that I feel strongly about helping folks find a self defense solution that works! I reviewed the Kelsey Smith story that broke on June 2, 2007 about a girl being abducted from a Target parking lot in Overland Park,
You might be wondering how can I defend myself against a large man? Self-defense is easier then a formal martial art, all you need to do is learn the basics. For instance in a beginning self defense course, many instructors will teach basic strikes, kicks, knees, elbows and have the women practice hitting pads (as this video showed).
I really like palms, elbows, knees, and snap kicks for beginners. You might be thinking, is this enough? If you examine the goals of self defense, then this is probably enough! You are just trying to fight off the initial attack. If you have also been aware of your surrounding, trying to stay of isolated areas, and are willing to do anything to fight off an attacker - you will have a great chance of not being abducted.
I commented on an earlier post entitled, “women’s self-defense and the palm strike!” about my step-daughter learning how to use palm strikes and elbows. She really started to feel confident that her elbow would hurt someone enough to get away! That is why I think women should be exposed to a self-defense course at a minimum.
The other course women can take is to carry pepper-spray, stun-guns, or other weapons as you state permits. I wrote a post entitled, “weapons for self defense” that highlighted some of the methods a person could use to mount an effective defense! One website that carries these non-lethal defense weapons is http://defendthyself.com.
I believe one of the main points I made in the “weapons for self defense” post was you are responsible for your own defense, no matter what method you employ!
I feel lots of empathy for Kelsey Smith’s family and friends as a father myself. No family should have to go through what this family did… you can make a difference in your life too! Prepare now - however you do it!
I think it’s a great idea! had my 6 year old not started taking Karate the idea of learning myself never would have entered my mind. Besides the physical benefits, it has done wonders for my attitude, and understanding of self defense.
John, Are you going to Panama in April?
Hi MsKnowItAll,
Are you speaking of the international karate camp, 2008 in Panama? I just did a Google search and found that at: http://www.shotokankarate.net/. I’ve not done Shotokan Karate in 30 years but I really enjoyed the strong stances and powerful kick, sweep, punch combos as well as the counter punches! If this is what you meant - it sounds like great fun but I won’t be there.
If you go please let us know how it was!
Take care,
John
I think it’s too bad that it takes a high-profile murder and lots of news coverage to inspire more women to take self-defense classes (same thing’s happening in Seattle now). Even a one-hour class can open your eyes to what you can do, what options you have, and increase your chances of staying safe.