Exercise Article Index >> A Woman's guide to Self Defense The real key to women’s self-defense is confidence and intelligence. Here is a brief description of some of today’s more popular forms of self-defense. AIKIDO: is a Japanese martial art that was founded by Morihei Uyeshiba in 1942. It relies on redirecting an opponent’s attack by using unbalancing and joint manipulation techniques. Aikido is considered one of the gentlest of the martial arts. BOXING: is often called the martial art of the West. It probably originated in ancient Greece or Rome. Boxing emphasizes using the hands to punch an opponent. The true art of Boxing is to hit without being hit. JIU-JITSU: is one of the original martial arts of Japan’s samurai warriors. It emphasizes punching, kicking, joint locks and choking techniques. Jiu-jitsu is categorized mostly as a system of self-defense although competitive Jiu-jitsu has recently become quite popular. JUDO: is a Japanese martial art that was created by Jigoro Kano in the 1880’s. Judo training emphasizes the use of leverage to unbalance and throw an opponent of any size. Since judo was derived from Jiu-jitsu, joint locks and choking techniques also exist. Judo became an Olympic sport in 1964 and is known as the "Gentle Way". KARATE: originated in Okinawa in the 1600’s. It relies primarily on striking and kicking techniques. Karate is considered a hard martial art, unlike Aikido and Judo, which are considered soft. KUNG FU: originated from China in approximately 300 BC. It emphasizes hand and elbow strikes as well as, kicks aimed at the lower part of an opponent’s body. Imitating animals (i.e. Crane style and Praying Mantis style) developed the numerous styles of kung fu. TAE KWON DO: is a Korean martial art. It emphasizes breaking techniques and is best known for its flashy highflying kicks. Tae Kwon Do is basically a kicking art that possesses a wider variety of kicks than most martial arts. Most kicks are aimed at high targets so flexibility and leg strength are important. Although most self-defense courses focus on skills to disable an attacker, self-defense training should include methods of preventing a confrontation. One of the best ways to avoid becoming a victim of violence is to trust your instincts. Another way is to develop permanent self-defense habits. Here are a few simple safety suggestions. SAFETY AT HOME • Your door should be equipped with a door viewer and a deadbolt lock. • All windows should be secure. Draw window shades or drapes after dark. • Avoid feminine identification. Do not put your first name on your mailbox or in the telephone book. Instead use your initials and your last name. • When leaving messages on your answering machine, don’t say, "I’m not here right now", instead say, "I’m sorry, we can’t come to the phone right now". • Should you return home to find windows and doors tampered with, do not enter or call out. Go to a neighbors and call the police. SAFETY OUTSIDE THE HOME • The first thing a woman can do to avoid becoming a victim of violence is to not look like a victim. Attackers want an easy mark. Walk with confidence and be aware of your surroundings. • If you go home from work late at night, try to arrange to pair up with someone. • If someone follows you in a car, don’t try evasion or speeding to get away. Drive to the nearest gas station, firehall or police station and get help. • Always keep your car doors locked (even when you are inside). • If you often travel alone or travel to remote areas, carry a cell phone with you. • If jogging or going for a walk at night, do not wear a Walkman. • Do not carry large sums of money in your purse and if possible, carry a small purse, tucked away from view. • When babysitting, leave information with your family about location, phone number, and time expected home. Have someone call to see that you are ok. Once inside the house lock all the doors and windows. Have someone pick you up or escort you home after dark. WHAT TO DO IF ATTACKED • If you choose to physically resist, take advantage of anything that you can use as a "weapon" – such as a pen, umbrella, keys, etc. • Fight dirty and use any means at your disposal in order to escape. Bite, punch, pinch, gouge, and scream. • Yelling serves two purposes: it alerts others of your trouble and it scares your attacker. • If attacked inside a building, pull the fire alarm. • Attempt to determine points of identification such as clothing, glasses, scars, hair colour and height. Write it down and call the police immediately. by Patrick Mascoe http://www.patmascoe.com Exercise Article Index >> News I Health I Wellness I Exercise I Profiles I Business I Links I Women ROCK! Product Review I To the Point I Contact I Home Created by: Art Street Design Studio. © Concerning Women Communications, Inc. all rights reserved.