Knife Self-Defence!

We teach a martial art called Tang Soo Do which is very effective for many aspects of self-defence . Tang Soo Do is a traditional Korean martial art that incorporates both striking techniques (such as punches and kicks) and defensive moves (including blocks and evasions). Like many martial arts, Tang Soo Do emphasizes discipline, respect, and self-control, which are valuable in real-life self-defence situations.

Here at Family Martial Arts Centres, we have a comprehensive self-defence syllabus which includes knife self-defence.

Knife Self-defence in Tang Soo Do

Knife self-defence in Tang Soo Do, focuses on disarming the attacker, avoiding being cut or stabbed, and neutralizing the threat. This type of training emphasizes quick reflexes, precise movements, and effective techniques to handle the dangerous situation posed by a knife attack.

Key Principles

1. Awareness and Avoidance:The first line of defence is always to avoid a knife confrontation if possible. Being aware of your surroundings and recognizing potential threats early can help you avoid dangerous situations.
2. Distance Management:Maintaining a safe distance from the attacker is crucial. If the attacker gets too close, the risk of being cut or stabbed increases significantly.
3. Control and Redirect:Techniques often involve controlling the attacking arm and redirecting the knife away from the body. This can include grabbing the wrist or arm of the attacker and using joint locks or leverage to disarm them.
4. Target Vulnerable Areas:In counterattacking, practitioners aim for vulnerable areas of the attacker’s body to incapacitate them quickly. This can include strikes to the eyes, throat, groin, and other sensitive areas.

Common Techniques

1. Blocking and Parrying:Learning to block or parry the knife attack is fundamental. This involves deflecting the knife away from vital areas using forearms or hands while moving off the line of attack.
2. Disarming Techniques:Once the attack is blocked or redirected, the defender can apply disarming techniques. These often involve joint locks, leverage, and pressure points to force the attacker to release the knife.
3. Counterattacks:After neutralizing the initial attack, counterattacks are executed to disable the attacker. This can include punches, kicks, or knee strikes to incapacitate the attacker.
4. Evasion and Footwork:Effective footwork is essential for maintaining distance and positioning. Evasion techniques help avoid the knife attack while creating opportunities to counterattack.
5. Using the Environment:Utilizing objects in the environment as improvised weapons or shields can be a practical aspect of knife defence. This can include using chairs, bags, or other objects to create barriers or distract the attacker.

Training Methods

1. Drills and Scenarios:Practitioners engage in specific drills that simulate knife attacks to practice their defensive techniques. Scenario-based training helps in understanding the dynamics of real-world knife confrontations.
2. Partner Practice:Training with partners allows practitioners to experience the speed and unpredictability of an actual knife attack. This helps in developing the reflexes and timing needed for effective defence.
3. Controlled Sparring:Some schools incorporate controlled sparring sessions where practitioners defend against simulated knife attacks in a safe and controlled environment.

Safety Considerations

• Use of Training Knives:To ensure safety during practice, training knives made of rubber or wood.
• Supervised Training: Knife defence techniques is always practiced under the supervision of a qualified instructor to prevent injuries and ensure proper technique.

Conclusion

Knife self-defence in Tang Soo Do provides practitioners with valuable skills to defend against one of the most dangerous types of attacks. By focusing on awareness, effective techniques, and realistic training, Tang Soo Do practitioners can improve their chances of surviving a knife attack and neutralizing the threat. However, it’s important to remember that knife defence is inherently risky, and the best defence is to avoid confrontation whenever possible.