This past week I hosted a group of ladies for a self defense seminar. “Empowering” “Whoa! I had no idea” “I’m going to try that on my husband…” were some of the comments I heard during the evening. The purpose of this post is to give our readers some insight to what we learned and discussed during the evening. Each time I get an opportunity to teach or speak I emphasize three fundamental principles Knowledge, Skill and Attitude (KSA). I promise everyone I train they will receive new knowledge and some new skills. I can’t guarantee I will change their attitude, but I challenge them to examine their attitude towards self defense. This evening was no different.
We started the evening with some straight talk: Most sexual assaults are committed by someone the victim has some type of relationship with. Also, the number one location for sexual assaults occur in the home. This lead to our purpose for the evening.
Fear: We are all afraid of Overt Human Aggression aka fear of other people trying to hurt us. It’s the the universal phobia we all share. Fear is a God given gift. Fear is not being able to control the unknown. How do you prepare for the things that scare you?
Boundaries: Boundaries are not only physical, but emotional too. We did a simple drill where the group is divided in half and then the simply walk toward each other until they reach and uncomfortable distance from one another. This “personal space” was consistently just a little outside arms reach. Knowing how to establish, recognize and defend your boundaries is critical component of protecting yourself.
Self Defense Skills: This event was hands-on and everyone participated in the drills. Here is a brief list of some of the techniques that were demonstrated, taught and practiced: Striking (hand/knees/feet), Choke Defense and the dreaded Ground Defense. Everyone got individual instruction and was able to practice the technique and then demonstrated to the group. They really got into this part especially when it was time to beat on me.
We concluded our evening with some discussion on weapons and their place in self defense and some question and answer time. I always enjoy teaching and this night was no different. Just before this class started I received confirmation that the next class on Tuesday December 27th was sold out. So, I will be offering another session in January. Stay in touch and check our updates to see the date of the next class. Until next time, Finish The Fight!
Tags: Ladies Self Defense, Self Defense Training, Womens Self Defense
