Women Who Fight Back
I had to laugh when I saw this photo of the young lady performing a hiza tsui on this hapless fellow. Makes you wonder what he did to deserve it! Many of the women I've spoken with through the years tell me they came to the martial arts because of some negative experiences they've had with men. Typically, these unfortunate events happen at the workplace. While kneeing Romeo in the groin will probably get you fired, the alternative isn't too promising either. Personally, I don't have alot of faith in these ethics training programs that some jobs provide.
Being confronted in an unlit parking lot late at night is a terrifying prospect for most women. At times like this, long fingernails, high heels, and hat pins make convincing deterrents. Kobudo (farming implements that double as weapons) is taught within Okinawan karate styles, and household weapons are as quick as they are handy. For women (and men), it's important to understand that brevity is the soul of having an effective encounter with someone intent on harming you. This reminds me of a popular saying depicted on T-shirts from years ago: "Do Unto Others, Then Run!"
Being confronted in an unlit parking lot late at night is a terrifying prospect for most women. At times like this, long fingernails, high heels, and hat pins make convincing deterrents. Kobudo (farming implements that double as weapons) is taught within Okinawan karate styles, and household weapons are as quick as they are handy. For women (and men), it's important to understand that brevity is the soul of having an effective encounter with someone intent on harming you. This reminds me of a popular saying depicted on T-shirts from years ago: "Do Unto Others, Then Run!"
posted by John Vesia at 3/04/2006 06:27:00 PM
6 Comments:
If only women's self defense was as easy as a simple knee kick to the groin. I think that the men who attack women will usually set up the situation so that the victim feels trapped, paniced, and unable to respond before they get close enough for her to try that kind of defense.
I would suggest that mental training for women is really important to help them handle the inner pressures that will be placed upon them in such an encounter.
You bring up a good point Mireille. When we panic, we're evoking a conditioned response; martial arts training is designed to bring about an appropriate right action to any situation, spontaneously, and automatically.
Do, and run.
I agree with Mireille. That ought to be what's promoted. Otherwise, they're just no point in training.
Just like a post before said : Keeping it real.
John, I recently drove myself to a show in San Francisco. Had to park in the underground parking garage. I was a little nervous before I got there, but luckily, there were other people nearby, also going to a show, so I felt relatively safe in the elevator and walking two blocks to the theater. And I do not wear high heels or hats, nor do I have long nails! This experience alone (not my first, however), although proved safe enough, has prompted me to consider taking some martial arts training. Many interesting things happen outside of my quiet little town and I don't like the idea of not involving myself out of the fear of potential attack. (And thanks for posting this! :))
Hello Flashcat...
I'm glad you're considering taking up the martial arts. If you're really serious and you decide to go for it, definitely investigate the schools you're considering. Watch a class or two and see what kind of people attend. A good school should be regarded as an extended family. Let me know what you decide to do.
Sincerely,
John
I'll do that; thanks!
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