7 Ways To Stay Safe

Here are just 7 practices to keep yourself safe! As a martial arts school, we exist to empower our students, build confidence and teach self-defense. We love to work with the Poway community so be sure to contact us about scheduling a self-defense seminar!

1) Awareness.

The most effective self-defense technique is prevention. Being aware of your surroundings is key to avoiding a potentially dangerous situation. Notice who and what is around you, how people are behaving, and anything that looks or seems out of the ordinary or off. If you think there is potential for harm or a confrontation, remove yourself from that situation. 

2) Convey Confidence.

Studies have shown that attackers are less likely to target a person who walks with an upright posture and makes eye contact. Avoid slouching, looking at the ground, or walking in a way that makes you appear weak or timid. Even if you don’t feel confident, you can fake it by changing your body language! Use a confident voice to acknowledge people walking by.

3) Trust Your Gut.

If something feels wrong, trust your instincts! If you get a funny feeling about a person or place, get away from the situation! Don’t be afraid to look silly, often our instincts are correct. 

4) Make Smart Choices.

Avoid going places alone, don’t walk or run with headphones in when you’re by yourself, and know which areas of town are best to avoid. If an individual is known to cause problems, don’t hang around that individual. Smart decision-making is one of the best ways to protect yourself from harm!

5) Keep Distance.

If you’re walking down the street and someone walking toward you appears aggressive or unstable, move to the other side of the street. This goes hand in hand with being aware, if someone seems off, put space between you and that person.  

6) Make Noise. 

Do NOT be afraid to cause a scene! If you feel you are being threatened, shout and make noise, cause others around you to notice. Studies have shown that attackers will flee when their intended victim makes a scene. 

7) Practice.

These are just a few important tactics to keep you safe. A consistent training program is essential for success. Review the above 7 practices to keep yourself safe regularly and come to class every week to practice your physical self-defense skills!