Richard and Jason Davis, who have black belts in karate and each run their own martial arts studio, were the instructors for the fun-filled, informative, exhausting, activity!
There are 5 Ts to be aware of:
1. Target - Someone could be watching our activity to see if we do the same thing day after day. Others may just watch us for a minute to see if we're vulnerable. We need to be aware of our surroundings, look confident, don't be distracted and change up our routine once in a while.
2. Test - That person may walk past us to see what we do, or may ask us a question to see how we respond. Will we act weak and look away or will we look him in the eye to let him know we could identify him if necessary?
3. Threaten - If he comes toward us in a way that we feel threatened or feel he's in our space, we need to put our hands up, with palms out, just below our face, take a bold step forward, and yell, "STOP!" That breaks his cycle and he may turn and leave.
4. Touch - If, after yelling, "STOP", he only hesitates then proceeds to grab you, there are some things to remember:
♦Thumbs are weak - you can get out of his grip by pulling your arm either up or down depending on where his thumbs are located on your arm.
♦Circles work - If he grabs your shirt, step away from him at the same time bring your arm into a full circle to break his grip.
♦Don't just scream, but scream "FIRE" or something that would get the attention of others.
I found this video to show "thumbs are weak". This is kind of wimpy because we were having to break out of both of the attacker's hands locked on our arm. But you'll get the idea.
5. Take-off - If he tries to take you with him, do everything in your power to get away. If he takes you away from the area, your chances of survival are slim.
We all practiced the techniques on each other. We were grabbing, getting out of holds, kicking, and punching. I felt like Jillian as I stood and held the pads on my hands while my partner punched the pads as hard as she could. I have a new respect for Jillian! Today I feel like I've been run over by a truck! (I need some Ibuprofen!)
We did have a good time but we were dealing with a very serious subject. We had 2 hours of instruction. What we learned only scratches the surface and what little I have written here only scratches the surface of the surface! We can't be paranoid but we do need to be cautious and smart.
The best part of this activity was being able to come home and try it out on my manly son and husband! It really works!
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