5 Practical Self Defense Techniques:
The following five unarmed self defense techniques are simply an introduction to the martial arts and self defense skills that can be obtained by training with a local professional instructor. Each self defense move should be practiced on a regular basis in order to achieve the proper power and precision needed to perform the techniques effectively when needed. Local laws in the use of self defense also varies widely, so it is important to study the laws of your area to obtain the knowledge to handle each situation accordingly.
The Knee Strike:
When throwing a knee, the goal is to aim for the groin, stomach, or the head. While aiming for the head, grab the back of the head with both hands (without interlocking the fingers to avoid injury) and pull down while thrusting your knee upward into the face. 
The Elbow Strike:
The point at the end of the elbow is a very sharp and hard weapon. Elbow strikes should be thrown to the head, throat, or stomach depending on attack position. Properly thrown elbows targeting the head have the ability to cut an opponent, or even knock them unconscious. If getting attacked from behind, backward elbow strikes to the stomach or groin may help create an avenue of escape.
The Palm Strike:
Palm strikes are performed by bending the hand upward, and using the bottom part of the palm (directly above the wrist) to strike an opponent. Your fingers may be straight or curled downward, but it is important to remember to always keep the palm flat and the thumb curled (not straight) in order to avoid injury. Strikes should be aimed for the nose, chin or jaw.
The Hammer Fist:
Hammer fists are thrown using the outer side part of the fist, striking with the side opposite of the thumb. It is important to keep the wrist straight while performing this technique to prevent injury. These strikes can be thrown anywhere to the face or head, and should be performed as if knocking (pounding) on a door, or throwing a fast ball. Hammer fists can delivery massive damage if thrown correctly to the right area.
The Front Kick:
Front kicks can be used to inflict damage as well as maintain distance from your opponent. Front kicks can be aimed for the knees, groin, stomach and even the face (after flexibility is obtained). While throwing a front kick, power is generated using the thrust of the hips and leg muscles. Lift your knee upward and thrust outward with your leg, as if stomping through a vertical wall placed in front of you. You should connect with the opponent using the heel of the foot. (*The top of the foot or shin can be used if targeting the groin.)
Using only one move during an altercation may not be sufficient. Combinations and repetition of moves may be required to effectively remove or escape the threat, depending on the current situation. It is important to practice regularly with a professional in order to develop a strong stance, improve technique, increase power, improve reaction time, increase precision and develop the confidence to be ready when a threatening situation occurs.
When facing a life threatening situation, the goal is not to try and look pretty with flashy moves such as those seen in action films. The objective is to take down the opponent as quickly as possible in order to create an avenue of escape. Although learning to use and operate a firearm is one of best methods of defense, many choose to avoid carrying such dangerous weapons. Having the basic knowledge of these select moves can increase your chances of defending yourself and escaping a potentially dangerous situation unharmed.
Author: Jason Gandy
Published: November 5, 2013
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