How To Fight Good » Street Fighting Articles

Ninjutsu Martial Arts Training – Don’t Depend on Weapons for Self-Defense

By fight good on Saturday, November 28th, 2009 | No Comments

This is based on something that I wrote in my “KUBOTAN: Self-Defense Keychain” ebook. And, although the discussion was aimed at the weapon that served as the focus of the book, in actuality, any weapon, modern or traditional, can be substituted.

Now, please don’t confuse what I’m about to say with whether or not I use weapons. Weapons should be a part of any sound self-defense and martial arts program, training, and strategy. However, far too many people rely on a quick-fix. The Self-Defense Keychain book, in fact none of my books or videos were created to be a comprehensive training course in the use of any particular weapon. No single resource can be.

This is so for two very important reasons…

1. No weapon can take the place of a sound self-defense training program and plan – no matter how powerful you think it is, and…

2. Most weapons, especially those like the Kubotan, were designed to augment, or provide additional power and effectiveness, to unarmed self-defense techniques and tactics.

Do you have to be a trained martial artist to defend yourself with this or any other weapon?

No. Of course not.

Firearms are a good case-in-point. Knives are another. These two in particular have the potential of creating serious damage with relatively little to no formal training. But, remember…

…there is a huge difference between an effective self-defense strategy based on “knowing” what to do to increase your ability to escape with the least amount of wear-and-tear, and…

…the dependence on luck or the fact that you’re carrying a self-defense weapon.

In the case of firearms, people brag and tout how many rounds the weapon can fire before reloading, but…

…you can’t MISS often enough to win!

You can simply pick up a knife and start slashing and probably do okay. However…

…there are times during the year, at least in the temperate region where I live, that the clothing being worn by an attacker can make it difficult to cut him – even with a large knife. And…

…as we say in the self-defense world – “you can’t bring a knife to a gun fight and expect to win!

The choice is yours…

…luck or strategic application of trained skills.

Both can be effective. However,…

…which one do you want to “bet your life on?”

And, in the long run…

…your weapon, regardless of whether it’s a handgun, knife, or even a simple weapon like the Kubotan…

…is only as good as YOU are!

Jeffrey Miller is the founder and master instructor of Warrior Concepts International. He is the author of “The Karate-Myth” and the Danger Prevention Tactics video, among others. For more info, subscribe to his ezine here.

Self Defense for Modern Times

By fight good on Friday, November 27th, 2009 | No Comments

Most people when they think of serious self-defense for their home and family think of acquiring a gun. The logic of such an acquisition is compelling; simplicity, easy of use, firepower and the finality of results.

The role of guns in our history is profound and historically well documented. “The right to bear arms” is embedded in our constitution and the very notion of freedom and liberty is closely associated with firearms. Guns are considered equalizers for all people. Anybody, regardless of status, size or physical power becomes a potentially formidable threat when in possession of a firearm. Given the availability and prominence of guns in our society, most people tend to scoff at the need to train in martial arts. Why spend years of time and commitment to forge our bodies, minds and spirits in the ways of the warrior when all one has to do is acquire a firearm?

People don’t realize that guns are just tools and with such powerful tools comes great responsibility. Tools used in the wrong way can become a threat to the user and to society and training is required even in the domain of guns. Legal issues, safety issues, control and effective deployment and use of these tools is critical to the existence of a safe, secure and functional society.

If training is not important then why do our elite protection agencies of society such as law enforcement groups and military forces engage so extensively in it? The prestige and reputation of various agencies is distinguished by the amount and type of training each has received. Special military forces such as army rangers and navy seals are held in higher regard than the average soldier because of their higher level of training. For the same reason FBI and Secret Service is held in higher regard and status than the average municipal police officer.

Similarities of Revat-principles and firearms

A gun is a relatively simple but sophisticated tool for firing small projectiles at high velocity to penetrate the target with a straight trajectory. In a similar fashion, Revat is an unarmed system designed to achieve similar results.

Revat trains the body to be like a firearm mechanism. The hands accelerate explosively along a straight path to the target with the centerline analogous to the barrel of a gun. The forward steps serve as the gunpowder, or charge for the projectiles, as well as being the flight path for the attacks. In addition to the hands being likened to bullets, they can also be viewed a soldiers in war. Man Sao, or the front hand, is likened to one’s perimeter defense. Wu Sao, or rear protective hand, is likened to rear defense.

The value in guns and soldiers for self-defense is actually their offensive firepower to protect targets. Similarly, in Revat, when the limbs (i.e. the hands) are sent into “battle” and hand attacks are “chained” together, an “army” is created.

The invention of guns and firearms changed the whole philosophy and approach of warfare. In Medieval times very heavy body armor was used to protect one’s targets and consequently large heavy weapons such as the claymore broadswords and heavy battle maces were used to penetrate this heavy body armor. Mass and power were the order of the day. With combatants dressed in chain mail and body armor empty hand attacks were just not practical at that time. The advent of firearms rendered bulky metal armor and chain mail obsolete as well as the use of heavy hand weapons for warfare. Rapiers, sabres and light clothing, hand held muskets and cavalry, evolved and developed. Speed and mobility became more important, and in that regard, fencing was the principle swordplay that came into being.

Ironically, because of those developments that were set into motion by firearms, modern empty hand boxing became a practical supplement and alternative means of self-defense. Straight combination hitting, falling steps and shorter upright mobile stances became the foundation for modern empty hand combat. Additionally, grappling arts have evolved with modern times and in this arena speed and mobility are also paramount.

Firearms have also continued to evolve and develop in terms of improved materials and design. Modern guns possess greater firepower and have higher capacity clips and magazines. Today’s preferred handgun of choice for most police officers are semi- automatics, as opposed to the standard six shot revolver. Similarly, modern assault rifles also have large rates of fire and high capacity magazines. These types of arms have proven the most effective on the battlefield.

Revat is designed much like today’s modern firearms. This unique art stresses great mobility with its footwork and put emphasis on rapid rate of firepower. Chain punching in Revat can be likened to a machine gun, and with its fast and flexible footwork, it simulates a mounted machine gun on a mobile turret. Additionally, much the low thrusting kicks can be likened to a pump action shotgun, with their powerful blast like effects on the mid section, thighs, knees, shins and insteps of an enemy.

Revat Training to Supplement Firearms

As previously mentioned, complete, total self-defense based entirely on firearms is not sufficient or even adequate for today’s needs.

It has been well documented that many a law enforcement officer has been disarmed by determined criminal assailants when taken by surprise in close quarters. There has been much discussion on weapon retention techniques and programs. These in fact, constitute a study of martial arts. It is also known that most savvy, veteran law enforcement officers, carry a backup smaller pistol, in the event that their primary firearm fails, or is lost to them. In similar fashion, we in the civilian world can only learn and emulate form our better trained brethren. While the average citizen may not go on daily or weekly military maneuvers, martial art training is an undervalued, misunderstood and unappreciated tool for survival.

“The preservation and protection of our health” are foundations of our very existence here in this world. It is known that the law of nature is harsh, and the so-called civilized human world is no different at its core. Just like wild nature, human predators and prey abound. In every sphere of being, it is important to know where one is and to hone our instincts and intuition; to avoid, escape and, if necessary, fight predators. Self-protection and the protection of our family, loved ones and nation are primal instincts, desires, and responsibilities of everyone. Military and law enforcement are there to supplement our self-protection needs, not the reverse. Learning the ways of the warrior are necessary skills to our survival and growth, for we are all on the “food chain” whether we are aware of it or not.

In some states of our country, it is relatively easy to legally acquire a firearm for hunting or self-protection. In fact, more states allow a concealed handgun permit for law-abiding citizens. Even in these states, where people have exercised their rights to possess firearms, it is not always practical or convenient to carry a firearm. In addition, within a radius of 10-15 feet, unless one’s firearm is deployed, it is not a useable option, and in fact, in a close encounter, it could be readily taken from and used against the owner. And not every self defense encounters legally and morally justifies the lethal, final results that firearms produce. Martial art training gives the user many greater options of control.

Similar to veteran officers and warriors, martial arts training is the “backup pistol” we all need to invest in our survival and well-being. In this regard, Revat is the perfect addition to every modern, contemporary citizen. Besides the aforementioned technical features that virtually make Revat resemble a gun, the accompanying physical and spiritual training of the programs make it the best value of this century.

The average person of modest physical talent and ability can effectively and readily employ Revat to protect and improve the quality of their lives on a daily basis. Not every martial arts style or program can truthfully make this claim. Many styles and systems require excessive physical power and ability, rendering them impractical for the average civilian.

Revat is fun, logical and trains the students on multi-levels in a short period of time. Its strengthens the body, improves the balance, and honed one’s physical, mental and spiritual abilities. Strategy and tactical skills are also taught, and these are further integrated into an understanding of philosophical and legal arenas.

Revat is based on an ingenious integration of mathematics, physics and philosophy. It continues to grow and evolve based on its scientific and Buddhist, Confucian and mainly Taoist philosophical roots.

In summary, firearms are effective self defense tools but you may need Revat training to fill the gaps in your personal safety net. Do you have your gun on you right at this moment?

We offer several classes and programs for beginners, advanced martial artists and instructors who are looking to offer new classes to their members.

Growing up in former East Germany, martial arts were limited and controlled by the iron fist of the communist government. Ingo Weigel boxed his way through the ring only to find himself looking for better answers. After the wall came down in 1989, Weigel studied an ancient Chinese martial art.

After many years of study, training, trial and error Weigel adapted the principles of this art form to the natural anatomy of the human body and the 21st century. A new self-defense program was born. REVAT is highly effective and based on principles that can be adapted easily to one’s height and fitness level. REVAT is ideal for professional adults living in an urban environment. It also can compliment traditional martial arts due to its focus on tactile reflex training.

In 2000, Ingo Weigel decided to leave Germany and opened Chicago’s first Self-Defense Academy offering regular group classes, private instructions and corporate seminars and workshops.

In 2006, Ingo published the first book on realistic self-defense for adults “SELF-DEFENSE FOR MODERN TIMES”.

Self Defense and Self Defense Products – How Do you Decide?

By fight good on Friday, November 27th, 2009 | No Comments

With all of the various types of Self Defense Products on the market today, how do you determine which product it right for YOU and for what situation? I can honestly answer this one!! It is nothing but a personal choice. You must have some basic knowledge of the product you are thinking about purchasing. Some products are very simple to use (such as pepper spray and electronic

whistles) and others can sometimes be just a

little more intimidating to use (such as kubotans, stun guns or telescopic stun batons).

RegardIess of what self defense product you choose, you should practice and become familiar with the self defense weapon. The reason I call it a weapon is because you will be using it as one. You MUST be confident so when the need arises you react instinctively and with FORCE. You are being attacked and you DO have the right to protect yourself and your family!!

Do as much as you can to avoid a confrontation – “anticipation and avoidance” are the key words. If you get caught up in a situation, try to talk to an aggressor without provoking them. Practice relaxation, as appearing fearful or stressed can actually provoke an attack. Remember that body language is important in aggressive situations, so maintain a comfortable distance between you and the aggressor.

This technique is not always successful and that is when you MUST to be ready to ACT.

Steady yourself if danger threatens. Panic can disable you, so again it’s useful to learn how to keep control in a difficult situation. And if you must fight back, adopt what police term the “bash and dash” approach. Primary targets are the eyes, nose, mouth, ears, throat, groin, knees or shins; choose whichever is easiest to get to.

If held from behind don’t struggle forward, you’ll only exhaust yourself. Instead throw yourself backwards to surprise your attacker or stomp on the lower leg or foot.

You have the right to defend yourself with reasonable force and this includes using items you have with you such as an umbrella, bag, briefcase or keys. However, don’t carry or use anything that the law would regard as an offensive weapon. Once you’ve achieved your primary aim of stunning or surprising your attacker, get away as fast as you can. If you manage to overcome them don’t attack again, you could be putting yourself in more danger or you could end up being charged with assault.

Let’s talk about some Self Defense Products:

Pepper Spray:

OC is an inflammatory agent. Contact with mucous membranes like eyes, nose, throat and lungs causes instant capillary dilation. This results in major tearing of the eyes, if not temporary blindness, and breathing restriction. Sprayed into an attacker’s face, pepper spray is an excellent self defense product – the victim will be incapacitated long enough for you to get away or get help. And the effects are not long lasting; you needn’t worry that you’ve caused damage as you could with mace or tear gas.

USE:

Carry the pepper spray unit in your hand with your thumb on top of the trigger. (Make sure the little hole is pointed in the correct position – facing away from you – when you are holding it.)

When you are confronted, back up and begin spraying back and forth like you would a can of air freshener, creating a shield of pepper fog between you and the attacker.

Make him come through the fog to get at you. The spray won’t stop him, but he will be distracted as he tries to avoid the spray. And, if you are lucky and good, you’ve doused him really good so the chili pepper oil begins to get in his eyes and mouth.

Use the distraction to either escape or to physically defend yourself. But don’t just stand there.

NOTE: Pepper spray is NOT a substitute for a firearm. If you are attacked with deadly force, you need to respond with deadly force.

Check your local laws for purchasing and use in your state or city.

Kubotans:

The Kubotan increases the power of any strike. It is not necessary to waste time or miss an opportunity by trying to be overly precise. It’s better to react naturally. Good targets are the groin, stomach, solar plexus, throat, the arm, the shin, hip bone, collarbone, ankle, and kneecap. A sharp strike to a bony part of the body will encourage an assailant to stop his attack. A harder, well placed blow can easily break bones–especially if the force of the blow is not hindered by clothing.

The most basic applications involve striking or poking vulnerable areas of the body with the Kubotan. Generally speaking, swinging strikes work better against bony surfaces while fleshy areas are more susceptible to pokes and jabs with the ends of the Kubotan. With this concept in mind, a person avoids the confusion and frustration of trying to remember specific strikes for specific targets. Instead, one simply remembers to strike bones and poke soft tissue and pressure points.

There is no wrong strike. Just hit as hard as you can the closest body part. The strike does not have to be perfect. Since nerves are close to the surface of most bony parts, even a glancing blow will inflict enough pain to make your assailant think twice about continuing his attack.

You can also use the keys that you have attached to the kubotan. You can hold the kubotan and swing the keys. It is most effective when you hit the face.

The kubotan is legal and entirely unregulated. To most people, the Kubotan is little more than a nondescript key ring. While the Kubotan is not particularly intimidating, it remains an effective self defense installment. It really can save your life.

Stun Guns and how they work:

Stun guns use high voltage and low amperage to temporarily disable an attacker for several minutes. The stun gun does not rely on pain for results. The energy stored in the gun is dumped into the attacker’s muscles causing them to do a great deal of work rapidly. This rapid work cycle instantly depletes the attacker’s blood sugar by converting it to lactic acid.

In short, he is unable to produce energy for his muscles, and his body is unable to function properly. The stun gun also interrupts the tiny neurological impulses that control and direct voluntary muscle movement. When the attacker’s neuromuscular system is overwhelmed and controlled by the stun gun he loses his balance. Should the attacker be touching you, the current will NOT pass to your body!

There are numerous types of stun guns on the market today. Each one has a role to play. This again comes down to personal choice. Stun Guns can range from 50,000 volts up to 1,000,000 volts. All are classified as Non-Lethal Self Defense Weapons. My preference in a stun gun is the Stun Master Hot Shot. This choice is due to the size and the wallop that it provides. If I am attacked the Hot Shot is going to Mess up the attacker’s day!

With a stunning device, you must check your local laws to ensure it is legal to purchase and use.

Telescopic Stun Baton:

The telescopic stun baton that I prefer protects you in three ways: a Light, a loud 120db Alarm and 800,000 volts of stopping power. It’s rechargeable so you never have to buy batteries. Its 21.5 inches long when fully extended, and only 13 inches when collapsed.

The full length of the metal part is electrified. If the attacker tries to grab the Telescopic Stun Baton from you, he will be shocked. A push of the trigger immediately expands the Telescopic Stun Baton and starts shocking. Just push it on the end to collapse. It is very easy to do.

You shouldn’t worry about being shocked should the attacker be touching you. Won’t happen! The current will not pass to you. It will shock through a 1/2 inch of clothing.

With a stunning device, you must check your local laws to ensure it is legal to purchase and use.

I will repeat an earlier statement: Do as much as you can to avoid a confrontation – “anticipation and avoidance”. If and when this is not possible, PROTECT YOURSELF!!!!

Remember:

BE CONFIDENT

BE FORCEFUL

BE SAFE !!!!!!!

Ken Potter is the owner of:

Protect Your Home and Family – Your Site For Safety and Self Defense Products
www.ProtectYourHomeandFamily.com, and

Eyes Undetected – Hidden Cameras and Surveillance Equipment
www.EyesUndetected.com

Please visit these sites to learn more about personal and home safety.

Martial Arts and Self Defense Tips: the Science of the Fight

By fight good on Thursday, November 26th, 2009 | No Comments

Most of the people who learn self defense techniques through martial art training do so in order to be able to defend themselves. It’s a wild world we live in and self defense skills are important to prevent potential attacks and to give yourself enough self confidence to survive. Although people are looking for martial art training for self defense reasons, most martial arts are based on ancient practices and techniques.

Here are some really cool tips that will help you get the most out of your self defense training:

Control Your Fear

Even if you know the best self defense techniques you are still vulnerable if you haven’t developed one significant skill and that is fear control. You need to be ready to stay calm during a physical or verbal attack. There’s no training that can simulate a real life situation (e.g. a real attack on the streets). However there are certain martial arts and self defense techniques that will help you control your stress and your fear. These techniques will make you feel a little bit comfortable during a stressful situation (e.g. an act of aggression against you). These fear control techniques involve breathing exercises and hand positioning.

Be Prepared For An Attack

You ought to know that your body sends various signals to others. If you can read your body language then it will be easy to read an attackers body language and be warned of a potential assault before it happens. Some key warning signs of an attack are easily noticed. For example when a person is nervous and looks around him/her all the time, when a person’s jaw is clenched or when his/her fingers form a fist. Another warning sign is when someone is hiding his/her hands. Many attackers also change the tone of their voices and speak aggressively when they are about to attack. If you notice such behavior by a person, then you better try to avoid talking or walking close to that person.

Attacked By More Than One Person

There are cases where attacks come from more than one direction (e.g. more than one person attacks you). Self Defense techniques can teach you how to deal with such bad situations. The first thing you must consider when facing multiple attacks is to run away, if this is possible. The odds are against you so do not try to be a hero. Try to keep all attackers in front you so that you can see what’s happening. If it’s possible try not to be backed into a corner. Do not try to attack first unless you are really skillful at martial arts and self defense. Instead try to keep a defensive but not aggressive stance. In such cases you need to keep your energy reserves high so do not make unnecessary moves.

These are just some recommendations that will help you stay alert when encountering an attack on a lonely street for example. But if you want professional self defense training through martial arts then consider attending a self defense class or buying a self defense guide and start to practice. Remember the secret is to stay calm and try to avoid any kind of fight unless you are really skillful. Ancient martial arts masters used their skills only to defend themselves and not to attack.

7 Really Good Reasons You Need to Learn to Use the Kubotan Self-Defense Keychain

By fight good on Wednesday, November 25th, 2009 | No Comments

Ironically, in a world filled with terrorism, assault, rape, and murder, I have to write an article giving people reasons why they should be learning self-defense or the Kubotan personal-protection weapon. But then, if I didn’t, who would?

I hear questions concerning which techniques are best and what weapon should I be training with if I’m concerned about XYZ? If you have questions like these, perhaps this article can help.

Since this article focuses on the self-defense weapon most commonly known as the Kubotan, my answers will be along those line. So, just in case you’ve ever asked questions like…

“Which self-defense weapon is best for the beginner or untrained person?”

“Why should I learn to use the Kubotan self-defense keychain?” Or…

“What’s so special about the Kubotan?”

Here are some of the answers I came up with off the top of my head:

1. It’s one of the easiest weapons to learn and use.

If you’re concerned about self-protection, you don’t have the luxery of time on your side. Where a student seeking to learn a martial art for confidence-building, discipline, or for purely asthetic reasons can take all the time he or she needs, you need to find techniques and, in this case, weapons that can be picked up and mastered in the quickest time possible.

2. Short of picking up a rock or a stick, it’s one of the cheapest weapons to buy or make.

Cost is another factor for many people. Of course, if you can afford it and they’re legal where you live, nothing beats a handgun for making sure you have the advantage in a self-defense situation, regardless of what anybody says. But, for many, expense, age, and restrictive laws make this a problem. So, the easiest thing to do is find something that will work for you without a lot of expense in time, money, or effort.

3. It instantly gives a smaller defender a serious advantage over a larger, stronger assailant.

Nothing brings a larger assailant to his knees (not to mention tears) like a well-placed piece of metal. When used properly agains the many weak points and sensitive areas of the human body, the Kubotan is right up there as a formidable weapon, especially for the smaller defender.

4. It’s easily concealable, allowing it seemingly come out of “nowhere” to surprise and confuse the attacker.

You don’t always want to be obvious in a self-defense situation. It makes it too easy for the attacker to prevent you from carrying out your way-cool move. The small, easily-concealable Kubotan can slip into spaces and damage areas of the assailant’s body that he can’t see or protect until it’s too late.

5. It’s legal to carry in most areas.

From a purely practical standpoint, legality should be the last thing you’re worried about when it comes to defending yourself. After all, is the criminal acting in a legal and responsible way when he or she attacks you? But… If this is a concern, the generally acceptable nature of the Kubotan makes it a great choice as a personal protection weapon.

6. If it’s not legal where you live, it’s easily substituted by a wide array of every day items that are the same shape and/or size.

Just because the law says that you can own, carry, or use a certain type of weapon, doesn’t mean that you can find plenty of legal items in everyday use that make perfect substitutes. Learn to think outside the box and don’t let something as simple as a “prohibited weapon list” prevent you from learning a valuable skill.

7. It would be stupid not to.

Of course, this also means that not learning to defend yourself in general is, not only stupid, also not very responsible as an adult who should be able to handle their own problems and take care of themselves in this big, bad world.

In a self-defense situation, assailants typically brandish a weapon, not to use it, but to gain an advantage by merely showing it. Having even a simple weapon, like the Kubotan, evens the odds and can even tip them in your favor.

So, the next time you’re wondering whether or not you should consider adding the simple-looking, yet amazingly powerful Kubotan self-defense keychain to your self-defense arsenal…

…the answer is a resounding, “Yes!”

Jeffrey M. Miller is the founder of Warrior Concepts Int’l. He is the author of, KUBOTAN: Self-Defense Keychain and the best selling DVD, Danger Prevention Tactics You can subscribe to his ezine, at http://www.warrior-concepts-online.com/newsletter.html

What are the Different Types of Non-lethal, Self-defense Products

By fight good on Wednesday, November 25th, 2009 | No Comments

Lets begin with the purpose of carrying a self-defense product. Statistics reveal that property crimes have fallen while violent crimes continue to rise. Violent crimes include murder, forcible rape, robbery and aggravated assault. This is personal! It is most unfortunate that in this day and age we have to continually look over our shoulder. However, we do. The key to self-protection is Prevention. One way Prevention can be obtained is through the carry and use of a non-lethal self-defense product. By this, I mean carrying Mace, pepper spray, a personal alarm or a stun device, which can not only save your life but can play a huge role in the Prevention of a crime. Before the crime is committed… Prevent it! If an assailant sees that you carry some type of self-defense product, they might think twice before proceeding to commit the crime.

There are many types of self-defense products on the market today. There are a variety of pepper sprays that come in various strengths and sizes. There are also a good variety of personal alarms and stun devices, such as stun guns.

Mace and/or pepper spray comes in strengths from a 2% to 18% OC solution. OC is the main ingredient in defensive sprays. It is a derivative of the cayenne pepper, the hottest pepper in the world. However, the strength of the defensive spray does not necessarily mean that the higher percentage of OC in a spray…. the hotter. On the contrary, the OC percentage is a measurement relative to the other ingredients in the canister, such as tear gas or UV dye. The OC concentration does not measure the concentration of the other active ingredients in the spray. The effectiveness of a defensive spray is the quantity or concentration of Capsaicin. The higher the concentration of Capsaicin the hotter the OC spray. Defensive sprays also come in different sizes and types. The most popular type is the quick key release keychain pepper spray. One of the newest is the lipstick pepper spray. It looks like a lipstick container, however it is not. There are defensive sprays you can carry in your purse, on your keychain or on your belt. There are sprays with a leatherette holster, or sprays with a hard case or injection-molded holster. There is even a container that resembles a small baton. The sizes can be various as well. You can get ½ oz., 2 oz., 4 oz., and even larger canisters of spray (spray, foam, stream or gel). Check with your locality or jurisdiction for restrictions and legality of defensive sprays.

There are a variety of personal alarms as well. There is the Mace Brand Screecher Alarm, which is an aerosol alarm that emits an ear-piercing blast that is recognized as an emergency call for help and can be heard up to ½ mile away. The best deterrent is the combination of a 125db alarm and a flashing light, known as the Keychain Alarm. There is the 2N1 Alarm, which is a dual-purpose alarm that acts as a personal alarm and a burglar alarm. You’ve got the Personal Alarm With Flashlight that emits 130db of sound and the Electronic Pocket Whistle, which emits a loud 120db whistle.

Stunning devices are also very popular. However, some states have restrictions regarding the possession and/or purchase of these products. Before purchasing a stun gun you need to check with your locality or jurisdiction to see what or if any restrictions apply. Stunning devices can mean stun guns or tasers. Stun guns come in a variety of sizes and voltages. They come as small as the palm of your hand or as large as 8.75 inches tall. Voltages range from 100,000 volts to 1,000,000 volts. Almost all stun guns have safety switches and wrist straps. Tasers are a little more difficult to explain as far as the operation and legality of the unit. Most tasers have restrictions similar to stun guns. That is because it is considered a stunning device just like a stun gun. Again, check your locality for restrictions and legality.

There you have it. Now what type of pepper spray, personal alarm or stun gun would you choose? It can be difficult with all of the different types, strengths, sizes, sounds and voltages. Choose the self-defense product you think you will be most comfortable using, carrying and/or wearing. Again, do not forget to check with your locality or jurisdiction regarding the restriction and/or legality of defensive sprays and stunning devices.

Susan Eaton is co-owner of http://womenonguard.com a website geared towards the prevention of violent crimes committed against women. Prevention is the key. http://WomenOnGuard.com sells non-lethal self-defense products such as Mace, pepper sprays, personal alarms, and stun devices like stun guns.

Susan Eaton
http://www.womenonguard.com

Womenâs Self Defense

By fight good on Tuesday, November 24th, 2009 | No Comments

Not long ago, crime was something that happened to other people. It happened in cities or âhigh crime areasâ but not in quiet little towns where moms take kids to the park, jog alone or go to and from work at all hours of the day and night.

Things have changed a lot. It seems that potential attackers do not care who they attack â whether men, women or children. In the past self-defense weapons have been marketed almost exclusively to men, leaving women very few places to go to find protection. Lack of information and access to reliable and effective weapons has left many women vulnerable, injured or dead.

More recently, there has been more emphasis on womenâs self defense. There are more offerings of self-defense classes and other ideas on self-defense. However, women need more. Though self-defense classes are important and not to be minimized, they often leave a bit to be desired. For example, if you are 5â2â and 100 pounds, it might be quite difficult â if not, impossible â to end of a 6 foot tall attacker, even with self-defense training.

There is a way to bolster womenâs self defense, as well as, help women have the same access to self-defense tools as men have traditionally had available to them. There are products on the market that are available to everyone and will deliver protection every time.

Products such as pepper-spray, for instance, come in various forms and styles. There is pepper spray, pepper foam and pepper gel. Some of thee products come hidden inside fake ballpoint pens, lipstick tubes, flashlights, cell phones and more. They are easy to conceal and easy to use.

There are tasers and stun guns which send non-lethal, powerful electric volts into would-be attackers and incapacitate these attackers, giving a person time to get away and get help. Many of these tools come in compact packages and various colors. They fit in a purse or pocket and are easy to use, while being extremely effective.

Womenâs self-defense is essential and critical. It is important for women to have choices in being able to protect and defend themselves in a way that gives them security.

AnaLise is a professional writer and blogger. Currently AnaLise is blogging for multiple sites including www.2dsecurity.com, www.diyselfdefense.com, and www.buypepperspray.ws. All three sites are dedicated to personal security and self-defense products.

The Mind-body Connection in Self-defense Training for Women

By fight good on Tuesday, November 24th, 2009 | No Comments

What do you think of when the term “self-defense” is used? Most commonly, a woman associates self-defense with protecting oneself against violence by becoming more aware of one’s surroundings and learning to strike an attacker to get away. Because of the serious nature of self-defense, self-defense is not an activity that a woman would necessarily seek out to improve one’s health and fitness on a long-term basis or use as a stress-reliever. Instead, it is an activity that a woman commits to on a short-term basis such as a 2 to 4 – hour seminar or limited weekly sessions. In contrast, women may join yoga and pilates on a long-term basis. Both activities improve one’s core strength and flexibility and make women feel good about the positive changes in their bodies. Consider this – a self-defense system which increases a woman’s confidence to deal with “what comes at you” by incorporating core strength, flexibility, speed, and a strong body structure. This is done by training one’s reflexes through ReVat training It is a novel self-defense system which has its fundamentals from wing tsun kung-fu, and this system teaches a woman to learn how to use reflexes efficiently and successfully.

Research has shown that learning self-defense skills not only increases a woman’s ability to defend herself but also raises her confidence and self-esteem immediately after classes. In addition, effective self-defense training, similar to yoga and pilates, provides a woman with greater awareness of her body. She learns to utilize her core strength in creating power. She learns how to maintain balance as she coordinates her footwork while using her arms, elbows, and fists to defend and attack to disable her attacker.

In Wikipedia, a reflex is defined as “an involuntary and almost instant movement in response to stimulus.” Acquiring muscle memory for a reflex requires repetition of a motion over and over again until the body automatically responds in a certain way. Key to learning self-defense is the ability to act instinctively and to react immediately. In any situation, the time to react in an attack is less than two seconds. During those two seconds, the woman may freeze which wastes valuable time in getting away or she can defend and launch her own counterattack. To do this, the woman has to mentally commit to defending herself. A woman can learn many techniques but if the commitment is not there, the fight is already lost. Next the woman needs to have the physical training to get her reflexes responsive. However, what does it take to train one’s reflexes? How does training one’s reflexes benefit the woman in an attack situation? Below is one example of what we teach in our ReVat training to integrate the mind and body.

For women who have never participated in any self-defense training, there is usually a hesitation initially to punch an individual. One of the reasons is that women have been raised traditionally to be polite. To achieve the goal of teaching women to punch effectively and reduce their fear in punching, we use first use form training to show the proper positioning and structure of a punch as well as other arm movements. Form training in the beginning stages requires no movement of the legs so that the woman can concentrate on how to maximize a punch by learning proper placement of her arms in relationship to her body. The fist is in a vertical position as this position follows the natural line of the arm. Therefore, energy efficiently goes straight from the body through the arm through the fist and into the attacker.

Next we introduce the concept of chain punching. In chain punching, the fists are in a vertical position and the power of the punches come from the elbows. The right punch goes over the left wrist followed by the left punch over the right fist, and so on in rapid fashion. Therefore, every punch is immediately followed by another punch without hesitation. The person faces the opponent and each punch hits the opponent with equal force. We encourage women to practice this form of punching in the air to better understand the mechanics. With practice over time, women find that their bicep muscles become more toned and they become faster and bolder in getting effective punches out. Chain punching exercises are also integrated in other regular exercise routines as well, such as punching while doing squats or punching while doing sit-ups.

Finally, another component in the training of punches is that the women work with other male and female partners in various punching drills. These exercises teach women how to feel and understand different energies and speeds that come from different people of different heights and weights. These exercises are effective in reducing one’s reaction time to punches coming from another person. Thus, over time, the skill of punching becomes second nature to a woman and more importantly, is a skill that can be applied instantly, reflexively, and with assurance.

Want to learn more about Revat? http://www.TheRevatBook.com

Ingo Weigel is a Chicago-based fitness expert who originally is from a small town in East Germany, where martial arts training was limited. He started his fitness career as a top boxer before moving to the U.S. in 2000, where he seriously began devising his unique self-defense and fitness program, based on the principles of an ancient secret martial art. The result is Revat, a system that emphasizes reliance on one’s reflexes for protection in dangerous situations.

Self Defense and Self Protection 411

By fight good on Monday, November 23rd, 2009 | No Comments

Do you take steps to protect yourself? How much do you know about self-defense? For tens of millions of Americans, taking the right precautions for personal security is a vital part of their daily routine. Yet, many who become proficient in guarding themselves in one regard, such as protecting their home, leave themselves vulnerable to attack or incident in others.

Keeping yourself – and your family – safe is a full-time job, but it doesn’t have to be time consuming. Taking precautionary steps, learning to actively perceive your environment, and safeguarding your home, car, and valuables will give you more than peace of mind. It will give you the satisfaction of knowing you’re well defended against crime and accident. There’s an entire spectrum of self-defense products, especially self-defense products for women, that also offer increased personal security satisfaction.

Self defense begins with knowledge.

The old saying is true: forewarned is forearmed. Especially if you live or work in a city or area with even a moderate crime rate, planning and anticipating “trouble spots” close to where you live will tell you what to expect and whether self-defense classes and self-defense products are a necessity.

Your local law enforcement agency will furnish, upon request, crime statistics for your area, including breakdowns according to crime, occurrence, and frequency. Simply call the public information office of your local police or sheriff’s department and explain where you live.

And though it’s sometimes difficult in the suburbs, staying in touch with your neighbors helps spread information about events in the area. Carpooling, walking in groups, and staying vigilant around each other’s property gives you increased protection.

Self defense classes bring important knowledge to your readiness.

Women are strongly encouraged to take self-defense and personal security classes that will train them to deal with dangerous situations. These classes can range from basic techniques provided by women’s advocacy groups such as the YWCA to more elaborate martial arts and hand-to-hand combat training given by professional instructors. Among the martial arts, jujitsu and karate are some of the more popular forms of self-defense; many judo and tai chi techniques allow the student to turn their opponent’s strength and momentum against them, providing women a valuable counter-point to male strength and size.

Women – and men – also have the option to arm themselves with personal protection devices such as whistles, stun guns, and pepper spray. These powerful, lightweight accessories allow their user to disable an attacker without causing permanent damage. Most are small enough to fit inside the purse or within coats and jackets.

Moving through your environment is an active task.

The speed of life has grown so fast that many of us go through our daily routine only marginally aware of our surroundings. Yet this often leads us into situations where our personal safety becomes diminished.

Situational awareness means keeping an active eye on the space around you when moving through areas that are not secure, such as deserted city streets, parking lots and garages, and across campus or apartment complex grounds.

-Avoid talking on your cell phone and keep your eyes and ears alert when crossing such spaces.
-Keep cars doors locked whenever you’re in your vehicle.
-Don’t loiter around deserted parts of buildings or parking garages.

Mark Logan of SecuritySaint.com. Find Self DefenseTasers and Stun Guns. Visit http://www.SecuritySaint.com to learn proven techniques of how to protect yourself.

How To Build a Better Life With Psychic Self-Defense

By fight good on Monday, November 23rd, 2009 | No Comments

In the old days, before computers and modern technology, people had to rely on intuition to predict events and results. They believed in the reality and the reliability of astrology and telepathy. Intuitive understanding was often highly respected.

But today, the religion of science and effectiveness of modern technology have led us to forget intuitive powers. We no longer use those latent talents and skills, and we are losing our psychic identity. Without a strong psychic self, we lose spiritual connection as well. Anxiety, worry, and pessimism increase as intuitive knowledge and faith decrease.

If you sense an emptiness, a loss of spiritual power, perhaps it is time for you to work on your psychic self-defense. There are useful tools and techniques available to us that can restore our intuitive powers and defend our body, mind, and soul from negative energies and influences. But to practice these techniques, we need to undergo a psychic and spiritual cleansing. Once the psychic and spiritual being is free of negative influences, we can begin to develop powerful psychic self-defense and grow as spiritual beings.

Each of us has a core of spiritual energy that expresses itself in an aura. For most of us, the aura is invisible, but people with psychic abilities can see it. The psychic self is energy, and it can guard us against the negative powers and influences that assault us every day. The psychic self can be a shield that allows us to strengthen and develop our spiritual lives and our souls. Effective psychic self-defense makes us more relaxed and healthy and gives us a better quality of life.

When our psychic energy and spiritual core are compromised by negative influences, we are more vulnerable to illness, pessimism, and violence. This is true collectively as well. Societies have the combined energy of their members, and a society dominated by negative people is also dominated by crime, obscenity, and intolerance. It’s people experience much anxiety and despair. On the other hand, societies that include many positive people are characterized by peace, health, and compassion. It’s people experience faith, trust, and joy.

The material world, where people are pre-occupied with the events of the day and building wealth, dismisses intuitive abilities as hocus-pocus. It encourages us to repress any innate ability that is not supportive of material well-being and power. The negative energy and power inherent in material life is damaging to our psychic self-defense. It’s important to recognize the value of intuition, spirituality, and non-material goals if we want to have better individual lives and societies.

To achieve truly healthy development, a person must pursue more than physical health and emotional balance. They must also develop spiritually. In order to do that, they need strong psychic self-defense and restored intuitive powers. Psychic health brings with it better decision-making, resistance to disease, improved personal relationships, and spiritual power. If you believe you’re under the influence of negative influences, you can defend yourself and restore your innate intuitive nature.

The practices that have been successful in restoring intuitive power and psychic self-defense are general simple and easy. They include long walks, laughter, and frequent exposure to nature. More structured techniques include meditation, yoga, acupuncture, color therapy, naturopathy, and breathing therapy.

Intuitive power not only helps us see and understand our past, present, and future. It helps us move with ease through uncertain times and circumstances. It gives us greater confidence and optimism. It helps us be healthier, happier human beings. It makes us more open to adventure. It helps protect our spiritual core and energy. Intuitive power is psychic self-defense.

Part of psychic self-defense is strengthening your personal energy and aura. This requires becoming more in tune with your surroundings and your society. It involves freeing those innate abilities that have been repressed for so long. It requires introspection and personal change. It asks that you identify in yourself negative impulses like lust, envy, sloth, hatred, and distrust. It demands that you nurture your positive impulses – generosity, tolerance, kindness, initiative, and trust.

After a few weeks of this inner work, you’ll find yourself stronger, more energetic, and happier. You’ll be better able to contribute to your family, your community, and your society. You’ll be a positive influence. You’ll be less vulnerable to negativity and negative assaults. Your life, and the lives of those around you, will be brighter and more fulfilled. You’ll be a master at psychic self-defense.

Abhishek is an Astral Projection expert and he has got some great Astral Projection
Techniques up his sleeves! Download his exhaustive Astral Projection Ebook (167-Pages), from his website
onClick=”javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview(‘/outgoing/article_exit_link’);” href=”http://www.astralprojectnow.com> http://www.astralprojectnow.com

Categories

Top 2 Muscle Building Recommendations