How to Defend Yourself if Caught from Behind

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Co-authored by Dr. Jeffrey S. Harmon

Last Updated: February 26, 2024

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Everyone needs to know at least the basics to defend themselves. So here are some that everyone should know.

Steps

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Or a complete stranger grabbing the wrong person.
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If someone grabs you from behind, then just drop all your weight. It will force them to drop you and be that much harder to carry your full weight.
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Usually when someone grabs you from behind they're going to have at least one of their hands in front of you. With one hand grab their index and their middle finger and with your other grab the ring and the pinkie finger. Pull very hard in opposite directions. This is very painful to your attacker and should give you a chance to get away.
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This defense you can use if you're grabbed from behind or if for some reason your attacker decides to grabs you where you're facing them. If from behind - put your hands on their head and drag your fingernails down until you find their ears. Grab on to the ears and pull down in a fast motion. Doing it too slow can give them a chance to realize what is happening. But if done fast enough and with enough strength, you should be able to damage their ear. And if you are very strong (As to where you're actually superman) you could even rip it off.
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This one only works if your attacker is coming at you or grabs you to where you're facing them. Your hand shouldn't be in a fist, but uncurled and straight. Make sure every bone in your hand is straight. It won't work right if any of your bones are bent. With your hand 'jab' them straight in the middle of their throat. This should close their wind pipe for a few seconds; leaving them gasping for air and giving you a chance to get away.
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As a last effort, try walking backwards. Both your attacker and you will fall backwards; giving you a chance to escape.

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If a stranger grabs the collar of my shirt and asks for my full name, what do I say?

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Let them know your first name, but never your last or middle names. Call the police immediately if you have a phone. To prevent this from happening, stay around people you know.

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What should I do if the attacker chokes me?

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You should try to use your elbows to jab him in the abdomen long enough for you to break his grip and escape. You could also try kicking him or stepping on his feet.

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Trust your instincts. If you start to go down a dark street or you enter an elevator with a person that doesn't feel right, then either turn around and walk away from that street or leave that elevator.

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Some situations you can get out of without having to fight or getting hurt. If your attacker just wants your wallet, then give it up without a fight. You'd rather lose your wallet, then your life.

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