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Learning defense moves at home is the ultimate way to avoid some of the expenses and inconveniences of learning self-defense in a class. But what does one need to know over a basic kick, punch, or block to survive a physical altercation? If you are unfamiliar with how to get started on self-defense moves at home, this article is for you as it offers a clear guide.
1. Remember to Stretch Daily
Warm up your muscles, especially your legs, hands, and neck. Stretching can tire out your muscles and give you more energy after a good workout. Don’t forget to stretch down to your toes and up again. Don’t forget to stretch after exercise regularly.
Stretching will help you maintain the proper form of many self-defense moves and give you more endurance. You can stretch by jumping, skipping, jumping jacks, running in place, or doing a simple march. Let your muscles stretch on their own at first to let the bad habits go. Start by stretching in the morning and then again before bed.
2. Use a Punching Bag
Punching a bag will build your muscle strength and stamina. You should also regularly punch bags to build up the muscles in your forearms and shoulders used in punching bags. These muscles will be tested when trying to protect yourself or your loved ones in a confrontation.
Select a punching bag that is appropriate for your height and build. Wear gloves while punching the bag, and get used to hitting similar parts of your body and moving targets. A filled wrestling dummy is another great substitute for the bag, especially if you would like to learn different moves.
3. Speed Bumps
Speed bumps can be used with punching bags to increase the strength and stamina of your punches, kicks, and blocks. The idea is that you hit the speed bump hard enough to break through but not so hard that you injure yourself or expend too much energy.
A speed bump is a round object placed before you as a person tries to run up it. Your body takes a 360-degree turn through the speed bump, and the speed can be quite intimidating to an attacker. Try this move against a punching bag or in practice with your opponent.
4. Guarding Angles
It’s important to learn how to protect yourself from the different blind spots an attacker could use. For example, if you are walking down the street, most people will have their heads down and one arm holding a bag in front of them as they walk. This leaves their back exposed. You should always keep your guard up and make sure you are prepared for someone coming at you from behind.
5. Learn about Self-Defense Tools You Can Carry
Aside from the tools you can learn to use in self-defense, there are also physical tools you can carry with you at all times. For example, pepper spray is a great tool to have on hand. Some sprays need to be cleaned up after use, while others leave a residue and can still work even if they get wet on you. If your attacker’s eyes are watering and he cannot see, this gives you an advantage in protecting yourself.
Another tool to have on hand is a canister of mace. This is good for an attacker and can also ward off animals or be used as a defense against a mountain lion or bear. You can also wear self-defense tools on your belt, including a self-defense key chain. This will let an attacker know that you are ready to defend yourself as you walk about your day.
Conclusion
A simple self-defense move can be more effective than any martial art move in the wrong hands. Knowing how to protect yourself from an attack is a great skill that everyone, regardless if you are young or old, should have. If you teach a child self-defense, start them young and get them involved in various activities to help build up their endurance. As an adult, it is important to take care of your body for general health and strength to perform these moves. Be sure to utilize the things you have learned here, and be cautious when walking in unknown areas.