Self-defense training teaches you more than how to stun an opponent with a well-placed blow. In many cases, women who escape attack simply pay more attention to the things and people around them. Self-defense training heightens those skills, teaches you to use your voice to ward off an attacker, and when all else fails, gives you the tools to use force against an assailant.
Statistics
According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, “simple assault” occurs more frequently than rape, robbery or murder. In the year 2008 alone, 4.9 million people fell victim to a nonfatal violent crime. What’s worse, according to the government’s National Crime Victimization Survey of 2008, women knew their attackers in seven out of 10 cases. Self-defense training systems give you the awareness and the skills to try and escape these violent situations.
RAD Systems Training
“RAD” stands for Rape Aggression Defense. This nationwide program offers self-defense training classes through community outlets such as police stations, fire stations and college campuses. For approximately $25 as of 2010, you can participate in a lecture, discussion and self-defense training. You’ll learn how to use your elbows, fists and knees to strike opponents who approach you head-on or from behind. After the basic class, which lasts for about 10 hours, you can move on to an advanced class or retake the basic class at any time in any location for no extra charge.
IMPACT Self-Defense Training
IMPACT is a nationwide group of affiliates that teach self-defense with an emphasis on verbal skills and boundary setting. Instructors use real-life scenarios to coach students through an attack, with one instructor playing the role of an aggressor and a second instructor advising the student. The program emphasizes communication as a way to set boundaries and de-escalate a dangerous situation; you also learn how to stun an attacker by hitting the body’s vulnerable points. The group posts affiliate links on its website, through which you can sign up for a class near you.
Model Mugging Self-Defense Training
Since 1971, Model Mugging has offered nationwide self-defense training that combines eastern and western philosophies. The basic training course offers 20 hours of martial arts techniques over the course of one weekend. Padded assailants simulate attacks while female instructors show students how and where to strike the assailant. The course is based on muscle memory—you’ll practice fighting techniques over and over again until your body responds naturally with the correct movements. According to Model Mugging’s website, graduates who were attacked knocked out their attackers 60 percent of the time, even if they took the class years ago.
Practice & Equipment
Practice your self-defense techniques to keep your skills sharp. Katy Mattingly, author of “Self-Defense: Steps to Survival,” suggests practicing your technique at a local gym using a body bag positioned in front of a full-length mirror. You can also buy this equipment to keep at home, along with a professional strike pad. In a pinch, Mattingly says, firm couch cushions can replace the strike pad for practice drills. Boxing gyms and martial art studios might also have this equipment available for rent.
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