2008 Woodie Awards
Leslie Ladies host self-defense class
Jade Enoch
Issue date: 10/26/07 Section: In the Spotlight
- Page 1 of 1
|
Approximately 27 women attended the course, which was taught by Jan McIntyre, a recommended third degree black belt, and assisted by her daughter Olivia Biondi, a first degree black belt.
First, McIntyre asked the women present, "What does a victim look like?" She pointed to several individuals standing in the circle who looked like prime candidates for easy victimization by an attacker.
Students were then asked to assume a defensive stance, shoulders squared, feet equally balanced, one in front of the other, looking straight forward. The women also practiced seven hand techniques for fighting back such as the palm heel, spear thrust, groin strike, and arc strike.
Next, participants practiced foot techniques in the event that their hands might be unavailable to fight back against a potential attacker.
Finally, they learned releases, which involve forcing an assailant who has grabbed them to let go.
According to McIntyre, the key to striking against an assailant is force and intent.
"Statistically, you only have three chances to do your intended damage to your attacker and escape," said McIntyre. "Then he wins."
McIntyre says that the primary reason that women are often victimized by violent crime is that they do not listen to their first instinct about a suspicious individual.
"Women are afraid to insult people," said McIntyre. "We don't want people to assume that we think that they're bad guys. Listen to your gut. Apologize later."
McIntyre offered several suggestions for anyone who is put into what she calls a "compromising situation."
First, she says you must always have a comfortable pair of shoes handy in your bag or vehicle. Also, it is important to be aware of your surroundings, making sure that no one around you gets in your "bubble." If a suspicious person does enter your personal space, it is important to keep a constant watch on the individual. In addition, always walk with purpose. When walking to your car at night have your keys ready. Eliminate distractions such as a cell phone conversation. Finally, lock your car wherever you are.
In the event that an attack does occur, never give up until you cannot fight anymore, or the assailant is gone.
"Always fight until you're done," said McIntyre. "Do not leave the original scene of the crime willingly." The reason for remaining in the location of the scene of the crime is that it is much easier for the victim to be found and for help to arrive.
"Unfortunately, most rapes and violent crimes come from acquaintances," said McIntyre. "This could be someone you know and possibly trust. Don't put yourself in a compromising situation."
Each attendee ended the class by breaking a board with their fist as McIntyre held it. All were successful.
"Now do you feel like a potential victim?" asked McIntyre at the end of the class. "Know that you have power."
"It definitely put things in perspective," said sophomore Ashley Hodges, a Leslie Hall resident assistant, "This information is so valuable."
Be the first to comment on this story