Self-defense important for everyone

While different schools of self-defense training, particularly those of the martial arts variety, can help you stay in shape and limber, not everyone is able to attend one of these helpful courses.

Here are some simple strategies that allow you to be quick on your feet and with your mind, and don’t require any special training or tools. These tips might be your best ally if you’re ever in danger.

1. Stay calm – Yes, easier said than done, but panicking or acting foolishly will not help you in this situation. Take a few deep breaths and develop a plan in your head.

2. Use your head … literally – Few parts of the body are as effective in delivering damage to another person as your head. It is heavy, large and thick, and while you may end up with a brutal headache as a result, use it to aid in your defense. Use your head to target an attacker’s nose and face. It will be more effective than trying to deliver the same level of force with your hands.

3. Ordinary objects can serve as weapons – You don’t need to have a gun in your purse or a pocket knife to ward off an attacker. Most anything can be used as a weapon, whether an umbrella, set of keys or even a can of diced tomatoes. Aim sharp objects at soft parts of the body, such as the eyes or stomach. Heavy, blunt objects can be aimed at the head and other bony areas to inflict the most damage.

4. Don’t be a target, keep moving – Moving left or right or back and forth will continue to give an attacker a good target of vital spots on your body. Confuse your attacker by moving in a triangular shape or try to limit the times the widest parts of your body are exposed as a target.

5. Do the unexpected – Most attackers count on you retreating when they lunge in an attack. In fact, they may be planning their next move based on this assumption. Throw an attacker off guard by moving toward him and then employing the method of using your found weapon or head to inflict damage.

6. Use common sense – The best way to stay safe is to avoid situations that put you in danger. Avoid walking alone at night. Try to let someone know where you are going or where you will be. And always keep your eyes and ears open to potential danger.

7. Make a lot of noise – Many attackers will retreat if they suspect they will be caught. Simply calling for help may not be enough in this day and age. Loudly yell something like, “Fire,” so that you draw the attention of those around. They’ll be more likely to look for a fire than respond to “help.”