You do not need to be a martial arts expert to effectively defend yourself. The most effective self-defense techniques are straight forward, easy to perform and can be implemented by any able-bodied person. Effective self defense is powered by knowledge, practice and confidence. Learn these seven self defense techniques and you will be prepared for a wide variety of physical threats.
Groin
A swift strike to a man's groin can immediately disable him long enough for you to get away. SelfDefender.net calls it the "Number 1 women's self defense technique." From a distance of less than 3 feet, kick the groin as fast as you can. The impact does not need to be hard to be effective. If the attacker is holding you, knee the groin or punch it with your fist. You can even do this if you are being held from behind. Move slightly to one side then swing your hand backward or swing your heel upward.
Eyes
The eyes are an especially vulnerable part of an attacker. No matter how big and strong an attacker is, a gouge to the eyes will make him stop. Jab your straightened fingers directly into one or both eyes. If you are in the grasp of an attacker, seize his head with both hands and press your thumbs into his eye sockets. He will let go of you immediately.
Chin
The best way to knock out an attacker is to punch him across the chin. A much larger and stronger opponent can be rendered unconscious with a single punch. According to PunchAndKick.com you should establish a firm stance with your dominant fist back, drive your momentum forward from your rear leg, launch your fist straight forward and impact the attacker on the side of the chin, driving him backward and slightly sideways.
Toes
A stomp on the toes is surprisingly effective as a self-defense technique. Aim the heel of your foot at instep of the attacker's foot and stomp straight down as if you were squashing an aluminum can. This is especially useful if the attacker is holding you from behind.
Shins
The tibia bone of the lower leg comes to a sharp edge at the front. This makes a kick to the shins extremely painful. A lot of energy is being absorbed by a very small area. Kick the shins with the inside of your foot like you are kicking a soccer ball. This gives you the best chance of making solid contact with the shins.
Fingers
Even the biggest and strongest man winces when you bend his fingers backward. If an attacker holds your wrist or clothing, reach across with your other hand and grab a finger. The little finger is the most effective. Bend it straight backward until it snaps or he lets go.
Running
The most effective self-defense technique is avoiding conflict. Always attempt to run away or talk your way out of a physical confrontation whenever possible. Steven Dowshen, chief medical editor of KidsHealth, recommends de-escalating bad situations. Give a robber your money instead of fighting. Scream to scare your attacker away. Implement any of these other self defense techniques then run when the attacker is distracted.
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