REAL SELF-DEFENSE SKILLS EVERY ADULT SHOULD KNOW
Most adults were never taught real self-defense in elementary, middle, or high school. Yet self-defense is a life skill everyone should have, just like learning how to swim.
There are two things every person should know:
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How to swim
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How to protect themselves
Self-defense doesn’t require memorizing endless scenarios. In real life, there are only so many ways someone can punch, kick, or grab you. Most confrontations start standing up and sometimes end up on the ground. That’s why learning practical, repeatable fundamentals matters.
Proper Striking Basics
One of the most important skills is knowing how to make a proper fist. Punching should be done with the two large knuckles, not the smaller ones. Using the wrong knuckles often leads to hand injuries commonly known as a “boxer’s break.”
Another essential strike is the palm heel strike. This uses the base of the hand—the heel—by flexing the fingers back and striking forward. Palm heel strikes are effective and safer for the hands, especially when targeting the face.
Knee strikes are another core technique, using the front of the knee to generate power at close range.
Understanding Soft Targets
In self-defense, you do not aim for hard surfaces like bones. Bones act like armor. Instead, focus on soft targets:
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Nose (cartilage)
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Eyes
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Ears
These areas are vulnerable and effective for creating space to escape. Palm heel strikes to the nose or ears can disrupt vision and balance long enough to get away. When grabbed, using both hands in a controlled palm heel motion toward the ears is a common defensive response taught in training.
The goal of self-defense is not fighting—it’s creating an opportunity to escape safely.
These skills apply to adults of all ages and experience levels. They are not learned through videos alone. Proper instruction, repetition, and supervision are essential.
To learn structured, real-world self-defense training, explore Adult Martial Arts in Kenosha:
👉 https://kenoshakarate.com/program/adult-martial-arts/
To view schedules, trial lessons, and program options, visit Championship Martial Arts – Kenosha:
👉 https://kenoshakarate.com/