Welcome Back! When we teach women's personal safety seminars, we are often asked, "What is the most effective target to escape an assault?" HINT - It's not the groin! While this is an effective target, and it makes our list of the top 12, it can sometimes be difficult to strike effectively based on the clothing worn, the type of grab or assault, and the position of the attacker's legs. In truth, there is no Number 1 best. The answer varies with the circumstance, but one of the most effective is the knee. It is almost always accessible, the joint only bends one way and must bear the weight of the body, and if targeted properly, allows you to run with the attacker limited ability to pursue you.
The following diagram illustrates some of the most effective targets for delivering a strike or kick while defending yourself. Some are more effective than others, while some are more accessible. The effectiveness of striking these areas will depend on the technique used, the amount of power projected on point of impact, and the type of clothing and footwear worn by the attacker and yourself.
1. Eyes
2. Face/Head
3. Throat
4. Ears
5. Cervical vertebrae (neck bones)
6. Clavicle (collar bone)
7. Elbow
8. Solar plexus
9. Lower ribs
10.Groin
11. Knee
12. Instep
For example, target the ears. For safety...don't do this on a partner! Practice impacting a training bag.
Striking the assailant’s ears with flat palms can disorient them, giving you a moment to escape. Slapping the opponent’s ears with flat palms can cause profound disorientation and possibly a ruptured eardrum.
In future blogs we will be sharing more about effective striking targets and more specific techniques, including short videos.
In the meantime, if you are looking for more information about Women's Self-defense, head on over to Amazon.com and order your copy of Women's Self-Defense in a Changing World by our own board members Master Lynn Jessee and Grandmaster Clifford Crandall, available in print and ebook.
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Until next time...Be Safe!
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