Pay attention to your forehead. If you notice your eyebrows creeping up during a grimace, try to lower them. Focus on your facial muscles. If you feel your face twitching at all, this can come off as nervous. Work on relaxing your face, keeping the muscles still.
Make sure your back is straight and watch your shoulders. They may lurch forward when you’re nervous. You want them to be behind your back. Don’t cross your arms at any point. This is a defensive motion and will make you appear vulnerable. Keep your fists by your face so that you can easily block any attacks. Your arms will protect your neck and chest.
Bend your knees, keeping one leg forward slightly. Spread your feet out until your feet are roughly the same width as your shoulders.
Keep your fists in front of your face, just below the eyes. This will place them close enough that you can quickly block any attacks aimed at them. [5] X Research source You don’t want to keep your fists right in front of your eyes as this can obscure your vision. You still need a clear view.
Pause before you react to something your opponent does. For example, if they insult you, don’t give in to your emotions and charge at them. Stand your ground.
Seek only to deflect your opponents moves. Use your hands to block punches and kicks. Do not do things like punch, kick, or otherwise lash out at your opponent. Seek only to push your opponent off of you to avoid injury.
Block any attacks aimed at the eyes, ears, nose, neck throat, genitals, or knees. Getting hurt these areas can cause serious injury and lead you to lose. Always keep your arms up in a fighting stance. Your fists will protect your face while your arms will keep your neck and chest safe. Watch your opponent’s moves closely. Try to predict where he or she will strike and be ready to protect yourself as necessary.
Keep an even tone if you need to talk. Do not talk too slowly or too softly. Avoid nervous words like “um. " Talk in a clear tone. Mumbling can make you sound nervous.
If at all possible, take a deep breath. This can calm you down. However, when fighting, it may simply not be an option.
An aggressor could have a weapon. You never know if someone is carrying a knife or another sharp object, so it’s best not to risk it by picking a fight. If you push someone into fighting, they could come back later with friends to target you. You do not want to start a cycle of violence. If you need to fight to defend yourself, do so, but remember this is the only time you should fight. Fighting is only justified when it’s the only way for you to escape injury.
It’s a good idea to travel in groups, especially if someone is threatening you with aggression. If you’re at school, avoid areas where bullies congregate. You may be more likely to get jumped in these areas.
Never be afraid to call the police. They are there to help you. Sometimes, just the act of calling them may be enough to diffuse the situation. Even if the assailant calms down, it might still be a good idea to have an officer near by in case it was just an act and he tries to attack you again.
Not every form of self defense will be right for you. Some forms are more practical whiles others aren’t. Similarly, some are more defensive while others are offensive. Before you enroll in the class, ask the instructor if you can sit and watch a class or two before you make your decision.
