Self-Defense for Older Adults
There is a misconception that you become more vulnerable to harm as you get older. All ages are affected by this; not everyone is able to defend themselves. Walking at night might be unsettling, especially if you're alone. Anyone, including family members, can approach you with the purpose to harm you. That is why it is critical to consider learning self-defense in order to prevent anything negative from happening. Unfortunately, the topic of self-defense is rarely discussed with older adults. Here are some ideas to get you started on your self-defense training.
Basic Self-Defense Techniques
Self-defense does not always necessitate sophisticated stances or advanced fighting methods. You only need a general understanding of your surroundings and a few simple movements.
Make loud noises: Whistle with your hands or use a personal alarm tied to your keys to make loud noises. If you don't have any of these, use your voice. Shout as loudly as you can to attract attention to yourself, possibly making your attacker flee.
Target your weak spots: Even if your opponent is larger and stronger than you, they have weak points that you may exploit. Depending on how close the attacker is, go for the eyes, nose, neck, crotch, or knees.
Use anything you have available: Anything from keys to supermarket bags will suffice. Swinging the objects that you already have at them can be quite effective. Additionally, if your environment allows, you may be able to hurt their eyes by throwing dirt at them.
Types of Martial Arts to Practice
Learning martial arts can help older persons defend themselves. It can improve physical endurance, mental clarity, coordination, and range of motion. All individuals in this training can reach their full potential. It can be challenging to select from the many different martial arts. The martial art that complements an older person's ability is the best for them. Here are some examples of several martial arts:
Judo: Judo emphasizes making use of your opponent's strength. It allows you to take your opponent by throwing them to the ground and then subduing them with pins, locks and holds. Throwing and grappling might be difficult, therefore you need to have a certain amount of dexterity.
Aikido: Aikido focuses on using the strength of the opponent against them. It deflects an attack's force. This kind of martial arts does not typically use punches and kicks. Additionally, it teaches you how to fall safely so that you don't get hurt.
Jiu-Jitsu: This is another form of martial arts that uses the other person's strength against them. Jiu-Jitsu focuses more on balance and manipulation than on force resistance. Though it does emphasize striking, throws and joint locks make up the majority of the moves.
Krav Maga: Krav Maga puts less emphasis on athletic applications and more on surviving an attack. You will learn how to quickly neutralize your opponent through the practice of this discipline.
Wing Chun: Low kicks and open-handed blows are used in Wing Chun. It emphasizes stance and accuracy over raw power. It is easier on the knees than the others because it involves low-impact exercise without acrobatics.
Self-Defense Weapons
To protect yourself, you don’t need to carry a stereotypical weapon while you’re walking the streets. Instead, you can use your everyday items to protect yourself. Here are some examples:
Cane/walking stick
Keys
Handbags
Newspapers
Umbrella
Pepper Spray
Scarf