Everyday, people of all cultures, races and economic background are victims of violence and abuse. These actions can range from physical abuse, to emotional or sexual abuse, and can have a significant impact on family, friends or anyone who is witnesses to the violence. Whether you are involved in a violent relationship or are the victim of a random attack, it’s important for you to know how to protect yourself; how to get out of that situation as quickly as possible. Martial arts expert Jose Fernandez of the YWCA Capital Dojo leads self defense training classes for men and women, and teaches you tips on how to make some quick and smart moves in an emergency situation.
Fernandez suggests first off, enrolling in a self defense class, in order to become accustomed to reacting to violence. Most people immediately freeze when they are attacked, but taking self defense sessions repeatedly will help you be prepared to make split second decisions. Besides self defense class, he recommends a few things for you to think about that can help you defuse a violent situation.
- Try to remain calm and speak in a softer, even tone.
- Keep your hands up, try not to tense up.
- Maintain eye contact and keep them busy with your voice
With a rise in dating violence, he offers a few tips to protect yourself
- Take your time in getting to know the person better
- Avoid being alone with the person in the beginning, plan your dates in crowded places.
- Get to know their friends, introduce them to your friends.
- If you are alone with the person, avoid alcohol.
Check out the YWCA for more information on what you can do if you or someone you know is a victim of violence, and how you can get involved in preventing it.
14 Comments on "Protect Yourself Against Violence or Abuse"
abby
i luv your show i whace ever saterday to see if i can help your show but maybe one day i well…..
love your show abby
Mark Johnson
What a wonderful piece and you could not have picked a better person than Jose to provide the insight. My childrend took Karate lessons from Jose for two years and learned not only how to defend themselves but also self confidence and perhaps most importantly, how to be calm. If you ever have the chance to learn from Jose, please do yourself a favor and do so.
Josephine
Great video!!! Very educational!!!
Sunny
If people heard this message, they would realize how easy it is to help themselves. Great video.
Agnes
Thank you for this video! We can’t be reminded enough of what to do and not to do when caught in a violence situation.
Thalia
There are many important facts covered here. I hope many women (and men,) watch this and become serious about their safety. Violence unfortunately, is rampant in our society, but it should not be accepted as normal.
The Thing
I think this an excellent example of ‘practical self-defense’ Too often a series of movements will be taught that address a very specif attack — there are no specific attacks. The best plans are as this sensei teaches…be alert, know your surroundings, strike back quickly, and make noise and RUN. Well done, this is a sensei I would study with.
Kelly White
Great tips.
latasha rankins
i liked the video but it doesnt help with the preditors in iowa
sandy
i thnk that women should take marshll artys lessons vbcauese men hin they have the power to cntrol thm or hit them sowomen should teach em a lesson!!!!!!
Riley L Mason
mr walsh great job on the show i can tell its more than that. Iam a truck driver and i see things on the road everyday. so I congradulate you and the team on your efforts . i would like to help some way even if it is but a prayer for your blessings in finding those who dont live a law abbiding life so my prayers are always with all of you and please dont hesitate to ask for our helpwhen needed thank you and keep up tthe good work
Jackie Chan
With whats happening to our economy right now, expect more cases of domestic violence to occur.
Jenna Herr
I just want to think you all for everything you do! I watch AMW every Saturday, and you are all in my prayers. I’m a teen girl, and traveling is my life. Your tips are very much appreciated. Thank you, and God Bless!
laura
hi i watch ur show too and im glad for it i do have a question i have tried every thing safety wise local officers dont help,i believe i may be a victim of id theft who can help nothing else is working locally or by sites??????i believe it may have been going on for at least 8yrs now .
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