"ok" we hear you say, “this is all very well in terms of a peachy future, but what about now? what about defending ourselves and our families on a daily basis?”

self defence experts agree on a couple of things:

  1. in public:  often, people who look like the victim become the victim (alone, maybe tired, unaware, looking down, hunched etc). a strong but friendly attitude to those around you is a natural deterrent. being aware of people, looking them in the eye and greeting them sends a strong message: "i respect you, and i am strong. so don’t touch me".*
 
 
  1. in homes/businesses/vehicles: when confronted by armed attackers, your best line of defense is to comply. having done the obvious (hands raised, eyes slightly averted), give them what they want, be respectful, engage them, and get them to engage with you, in gentle, polite, conversation.

and what if there is no time for diplomacy? if you are suddenly attacked for something other than you’re your possessions, apply the might of your body and lungs. disarm the attacker whatever it takes and run for safety.  we have self defense partners who will be glad to train you.
 
* don’t be doff now…we aren’t suggesting you go out alone (or in the dark) into dodgy urban areas, sparsely populated forests, mountains, woods, river paths, beaches or even city parks and trot along merrily greeting people. use common sense.  even though you may have done it a thousand times before – all it takes is one attack.