The Most Powerful Self Defense Tool

This week in the children's classes, I've been asking, "What do you think is your most powerful self defense tool?"

I get a lot of fun responses. "Punches!" "Push kick!" "Elbow strike!" "All the kicks and kicks and kicks!" And while those are all strong and important techniques, there is something even more powerful that needs to come first: your voice.

Let's imagine some scenarios:

Your 5-year-old is at the playground, and a man comes up and offers her a piece of candy, then takes her hand and starts walking her toward a car.

Unfortunately, many children put in this scenario will simply go along. Without preparation and practice, children are unlikely to speak up in a timely and effective manner.

Scenario #2: You are coming out of the grocery store with your bags. As you go to unlock your car, a man grabs you from behind. Your adrenaline spikes immediately and panic sets in. Before you know it, you are being hauled into another vehicle.

Attacks like this happen fast. In both cases, while a physical response is definitely important, the best thing to do first is to use your voice.

In the children's class, we are practicing the words, "I don't know you, leave me alone!" The children are learning to say them loud and clear - so that they can be heard and understood. We are working on scenarios that start with stranger danger and progress into anti-kidnap defenses.

Running through scenarios is important for adults too. You should prepare yourself to respond - starting with your voice. I encourage students to practice scenarios like this at home. Even just running through the motions with a spouse or other family member can get your blood pumping, and give you a chance to practice your response. Using your voice - loud and clear! - should be the first part of your defense.