No one expects to be in a dangerous situation, but knowing how to defend yourself can be the difference between safety and harm. Whether you’re walking alone at night or facing an aggressive individual, having basic self-defense knowledge can help you react with confidence.
The goal is not to fight but to escape and protect yourself. Here are five self-defense strategies that everyone should learn to increase their chances of staying safe.Â
Stay Aware of Your Surroundings
The best way to avoid danger is to be aware of what’s happening around you. Many attacks happen when people are distracted, often looking at their phones or lost in thought. Paying attention to your surroundings helps you spot potential threats early and gives you time to react.
If something feels off, trust your gut and move to a safer place. Walking confidently and making eye contact with people around you can also discourage attackers since they prefer easy targets.Â
Use an OTF Knife for Protection
Carrying a self-defense tool can make a huge difference, and an OTF (Out-the-Front) knife is a practical option. Unlike regular folding knives, an otf knife deploys quickly with a push of a button, making it easy to use in high-stress situations. It’s compact and fits easily in a pocket, so you can carry it without discomfort.
If someone threatens you, showing the knife may be enough to make them back off. However, it’s important to know how to handle it properly. Taking a basic knife defense course can help you use it effectively if you ever need to protect yourself.Â
Learn the Basics of BJJ
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is one of the most effective self-defense martial arts, especially for situations where an attacker tries to grab or pin you. Unlike traditional striking techniques, bjj focuses on using leverage and technique rather than strength.
This means that even a smaller person can defend against a larger opponent. Knowing how to escape holds and control an attacker on the ground can give you the advantage you need to get away safely. Training in BJJ also improves your confidence, making you less likely to panic.Â
Aim for Weak Points
If you need to fight back, hitting an attacker in the right spots can give you a chance to escape. The most vulnerable areas are the eyes, nose, throat, and groin. A hard strike to any of these can cause enough pain to make an attacker let go.
You don’t need to be strong—just quick and accurate. The goal isn’t to win a fight but to create an opportunity to run to safety.Â
Know When to Run
Not every situation requires physical action. Sometimes, the best defense is to avoid the fight altogether. If you have a chance to escape, take it. Running toward a crowded area or a well-lit place increases your chances of getting help.
If someone is following you, changing your route, crossing the street, or entering a store can throw them off. There is no shame in avoiding a confrontation. Survival is always the priority.Â
Conclusion
Self-defense is about being prepared, not paranoid. Staying alert, carrying a useful tool like an OTF knife, learning a martial art like BJJ, targeting weak points, and knowing when to escape can all increase your chances of staying safe.
The more you practice these strategies, the more confident you’ll be if you ever face a dangerous situation. Investing in your safety is one of the smartest things you can do.
