Basic Self Defense Tips

A few years back, I went through the Rape Crisis Center's training as a victim advocate, and one of the first things we learned was that the best way to avoid becoming a victim is to learn how to not act like a victim and think like a victim. Research has shown that once a person has been victimized, they are actually statistically more likely to be victimized again than someone who has never been assaulted.

The question begs - why? The answer is simple. Perpetrators, the assailants, actually look for certain visible clues that let them know whether a person is an easy target for attack. One of the best self defense techniques is to appear confident and secure, and someone who has been victimized before will likely appear less confident, and they will be more inclined to appear nervous or distracted, making them an easier target.

So most self defense classes work first on teaching people how to carry themselves and avoid being attacked or assaulted, because the best way to defend yourself is to not have to defend yourself at all.

There are many ways to reduce your chance of becoming an assault victim, and this article is going to touch on a few of them.

Basic Self Defense Tip #1

Use common sense.

Don't be in dark and secluded places alone or even in small groups. If it's late, try to stay inside, but if you have to go out, stay in well lit, populated areas, and go straight to your destination. If you can, try to always go with at least one other person or a group.

Avoid stairwells when alone and don't be afraid to skip stepping into an elevator car if the person inside makes you uncomfortable. Never go to the restroom in a bar or restaurant alone. Stay out of dark alleys and entryways. Just use a bit of common sense to avoid being in potentially dangerous locations.

Basic Self Defense Tip #2

Walk with assurance and confidence.

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Credit: Penny Mathews

Copyright: Penny Mathews