Attacks against women are one of the most consistent attacks throughout the world. Unfortunately, it’s a scary world and if you’re not prepared for the worst, you can be setting yourself up for disaster. It’s always best to hope for the best but prepare for the worst.
Whether you’re walking to the bus at night after a long day at work or heading out for an afternoon bite to eat, you’ll need to have some knowledge of essential self-defense techniques. Although when thinking about self-defense we automatically go straight to martial arts, that isn’t the only way to protect yourself. There are some other great ways to protect yourself that you might not be aware of.
For 7 self-defense tips that every woman should know about, continue reading!
1. Prepare to Escape
Always be prepared to escape. This means packing the necessary items with you. If you know that you leave the office late at night and have to walk to your car, the train, or the bus alone, then pack a change of clothes that are best for getting away if need be.
These clothing items may be pants and tee shirts that are easy to move around in and run in. You’ll also want to pack a pair of running sneakers and a hair tie. Nothing is worse than trying to escape an attacker while wearing a pair of pumps or uncomfortable flats.
All of these items are essential in planning the perfect escape.
2. Keep Yourself Visible
If possible, try to stay in areas that are well lit or well populated. If you have the choice of walking through a dark alley as a short cut or well-lit area that may take you a bit longer, go with the well-lit area. Criminals and attackers tend to target women traveling in places that aren’t very busy.
Another great tip is to take wide turns around corners. By doing this, you eliminate the chances of being surprised by someone who might be hiding around a building.
3. Carry a Weapon of Your Choice
Always be sure to carry a weapon of your choice. There are several different items that are considered weapons. If owning a gun isn’t ideal for you, then you should know that you have some other great options.
A stun gun is one example. If you find yourself asking, “what is a stun gun,” then you should know that it’s not an actual gun, but will still get the job done as far as stopping your attacker goes. You can also carry items like a whistle, pepper spray, a tool kit, and more.
All of these items are good for giving you the time you need to get away. However, be advised that any weapons you carry on you to protect you, can be used against you. So, know how to use them properly and be aware of them at all times.
4. Be Aware of Your Surroundings
Another thing to be aware of is your surroundings. Always keep your surroundings in mind when alone or even with other women. To keep yourself from being an easy target, walk with a good posture and know what’s around you.
By walking with your head rather than looking down, you have a better sight of what is around you. If you someone or something that looks suspicious, avoid them or that area. This also helps you be prepared.
If you’re aware of a suspicious person around you, you’ll be able to have your weapon of choice ready. Also, remember to not wear headphones. Wearing headphones takes away from your ability to hear what’s around you.
If there is someone coming from behind you, you might not be able to hear them while listening to your favorite jams.
5. Use Strong Verbal and Physical Language
Confidence is key. You gathered up all your confidence to land your dream job, to switch careers, to put your ex in his place, and for many other situations in life. You are a strong woman and now it’s time to use that confidence against your attacker.
Use strong verbal and physical language when suspicious of an attack or when being attacked. Don’t present yourself as weak as this will put a huge target on your back. Walk with confidence, speak with loud and strong vocals, and stand your ground.
Showing signs of mental strength may cause the attacker to classify you as a hard target and possibly send them on their way.
6. Listen to Your Instincts
Always listen to your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s usually because it isn’t. If you feel like there is any reason to avoid a person or have your pepper spray in hand, do so.
It’s always better to be safe than sorry.
7. Implement Cardio Into Your Exercise Routine
A good tip to help you be a better escapee and a worse target is to implement cardio into your daily exercise routine. Don’t have a daily exercise routine? Don’t worry, you’re a busy woman and finding the time isn’t always easy.
However, routine or not, you’ll want to practice cardio throughout each week. Keeping up with cardio means you’ll be able to run faster and for a longer period of time, both of which will help you fight back against an attack and escape.
If you’re finding it hard to workout on your own then you should read more about this app to help you step up your fitness game.
Don’t Forget These Essential Self-Defense Tips
When traveling alone or even with other women, don’t forget these 7 self-defense tips. Never forget that you are strong and very capable of fighting off your attacker. Find a weapon that you can keep on hand and always be prepared!
And to always be sure that you’re in the best of health, check out these 4 cheap and healthy lifestyle changes you should make.
Rachel Slifka is a freelance writer and human resources professional. She is passionate about helping fellow millennials find success with their finances and careers. Read more by checking out her website at RachelSlifka.com.
