Self Defense Techniques

If awareness and prevention fail, you'll need effective self defense techniques. However, they're only one leg of a three legged stool. Without either of the other two legs the stool will not stand. In order to effectively apply techniques, you also need an effective strategy and training methods that work. When looking at the techniques below, be sure to consider that they must be supported by realistic training methods and a sound strategy for implementation.

Empty Hand vs. Empty Hand

*The Hertao Fundamental Five - The most effective empty hand vs. empty hand self defense techniques and default responses.

Attacks:

- Eye Strike
- Smack and Hack
- Headbutts, Knees, and Elbows
- Pull and Attack

Interceptions and Counters:

- Low Jab Intercept
- The Crash
- Take Down Defense
- Clinch Entry

Note: You'll find many more techniques throughout the martial arts pages of our site, accessible from the column to your left.

Empty Hand vs. Weapons

Attempting to fight an armed attacker without a weapon is a very bad idea. Avoidance should always be your first choice, escape second, and using a weapon of your own third. However, it is a good idea to train empty hand vs. armed self defense techniques in case you ever find yourself facing an attacker with a weapon when you have none. Even if you do carry a weapon, unarmed self defense is often necessary in a surprise attack, serving to allow you to access yours if nothing else. Below are techniques and training methods we've found to be effective:

Against Knife Attacks:

- Empty Hand vs. Knife Drills
- The Jab & Stab Defense

Techniques Using Weapons for Self Defense

- Palm Stick Attack
- Palm Stick Defense

See our page on Self Defense Weapons for more information on using weapons in self defense.