Self Defense Techniques The Barrier
Ok so the first thing that happens in many self defense situations is that a would be assailant will Start getting in your face In other words they will come far too close for comfort breaking into your personal space , pushing your resolve and trying to shock you. Obviously in a perfect situation you’ll see this person well in advance due to having a decent self defense mindset and being aware of the situation.
If this initial line of defense has not worked and the point has been arrived at where the agressor has come into your personal space the next thing you should do is what we call “Erecting the barrier”. Just back off to a reasonable distance from the person that is being probelmatic to you, making sure you are moving into an open area rather than towards a wall or any barrier of that kind (Open space allows you more chances for escape if you need to run).
If the attacker follows you and tries to enter your personal space again put your hand out and stop them at arms length. If they push into your defensive barrier, make it extremely clear you are not intimatedscared) but nor do you want to engage with this person, say something along the lines of “Hey, I’m off now” or “Look man Im going home ok!” and dont stop keeping your barrier between you and the would be attcaker. As you attempt to move away from the aggressor you can also try to move towards a more populated area, if you are on a side street move onto the main drag, etc.
One thing to remember is to not push the attacker or throw insults at them, doing this may well make them more aggressive and determined to pick you as their victim. One of the most seen street attacks is a punch thrown by an aggressive person after they have been pushed in the chest. Try to make “the barrier” exactly that, a barrier, not a push. At the same time you should be alert to any attempt to grab you or strike out at you. Regardless you should continue to withdraw from the individual keeping your barrier up when needed.
Once you have managed to make enough space between you and the attcaker increase it and move off down the street making sure they are not following. Do not run or turn away until you no longer are in danger and are in a place of safety.