A Quick Guide to Self Defense for Women

Statistics reveal that in America, one in three women will be sexually attacked during her lifetime, so knowing self defense for women might one day protect you in a very real situation. We all know that the world is becoming increasingly more violent but many women still believe that an assault can’t or won’t happen to them. That’s what the majority of women who were raped also thought.

Every woman needs to know at least the basics of self defense for women. There are many ways this can be accomplished and the best one for you might depend somewhat on your personality. If, for instance, you are a very timid person, you might want to take a class where you can learn and practice self defense techniques with others.

In a class, women often gain self-confidence from doing the work while being encouraged by others who have the same concerns. Group support when it comes to gaining self-esteem and learning practical defense techniques can be a wonderful thing.
Other people might have a learn-it-yourself type of mentality. These women can get books and instructional videos and teach themselves everything they need to know to protect themselves.

The one thing that might be lacking in the self-designed approach is the opportunity to practice on others, but friends and family can also fill this role. Getting one or two self defense weapons and learning to use them can also give you self-confidence. For instance, a stun gun is a great weapon with which to deter attackers, and just having it with you and knowing how to use it can help you feel safe. Sometimes just the sizzling sound of a powerful stun gun can be enough to send away a would-be attacker.

That’s because most attackers prefer the path of least resistance. Knowing that you are prepared to confront them will discourage many assailants. Knowing a little bit about defending yourself can also mean knowing how to use your own body to fend off another person. Putting all your weight into an elbow to the right spot on the body can cause pain and may get your attacker to release his grip. Kicking can also be effective.

Contrary to what many women think, kicking a guy in the groin may not be the best form of defense. That’s because your attacker may be quick enough to grab your foot and force you onto the ground. A knee may be more effective on the groin and your feet may be put to better use by kicking your attacker’s ankles or calves, or even stomping on his feet. Biting is also a rather effective technique but these days you will have to decide if you  want to take the risk of having your attacker’s blood in your mouth.

All of these options might sound scary at first but once you can put some methods of self defense into practice, you will no longer have any kind of helpless feeling about being attacked. You can successfully defend yourself when you learn what to do.