Situational Awareness & Self-Defense

Though KickStart teaches self-defense, our greatest hope is to avoid the need for physical self-defense altogether. A key component to minimizing our risk is maintaining situational awareness. Situational awareness is exactly what it sounds like - being alert to our surroundings, aware of potential risks, and having a plan for escape if needed. Visual cues are key, as are listening for potential danger. Add in listening to our instincts and we our much more prepared for whatever comes our way.

Wherever we are, keeping our eyes on our surroundings is critical to our safety. If we position ourselves so we can see as much of a room or area as possible, we'll be best able to identify potential risks. If we sit with our back to the wall, we eliminate one direction from which an attacker could approach us. Who and what is around us, and what's happening? Can we hear someone approaching? Headphones can be great for unplugging or focusing on work, but be careful about using them in public situations.

While a fully charged phone can be our best friend to call for help, we've all been guilty of reducing our attention to a small screen. Scroll or respond to a text only when in a safe place. Even scrolling in our car can be vulnerable if it's dark or we haven't locked our doors as we may not notice someone approaching.

Read the body language of those around us. If someone is showing aggression, nervousness or being overly loud, keep an eye on them or leave the situation if possible. Maintain a safe space between yourself and strangers when you can. A buffer zone makes it harder for someone to reach us with a quick punch, a wrist grab or a choke hold. Acknowledge potential predators. Most attackers aren't looking for a fight - they prefer to take their victims by surprise. By making quick eye contact and continuing to monitor their movement, we communicate that we're wary of them and ready to defend ourselves if necessary.

Perhaps most importantly, listen to your gut! Our instincts exist to keep us safe. That uncomfortable feeling is our body's way of preparing us for flight or fight. Set verbal and spatial boundaries early and leave any situation that makes you uncomfortable quickly if you can. KickStart Self-Defense hopes these tips will help you to be more situationally aware and stay safe!