Whether you’re male or female, young or old— knowing how to protect yourself is important. For young college women between the ages of 18 and 22, it is not only important, it is necessary.

It is important to note that being aware of your surroundings is the most effective and proactive method of defense.

“Keep your head on a swivel and refrain from looking at your phone when walking from Point A to Point B,” Cooper Aerobics’ Martial Arts Pro Mike Proctor says. “Do not put yourself in a vulnerable position by not paying attention.”

Proctor recommends taking a class from a skilled professional to actively learn and practice methods of self-defense. In the meantime, he shares a few basic moves in the event you should ever need to defend yourself.

Step 1: EnterNose

If someone is attacking you head-on, always move forward to proactively defend yourself. Turning your back to the attacker will only limit your options of defense.

“The closer you are, the easier it is to protect yourself,” Proctor says. “At arms-length, the attacker is stronger because they can reach out to hit you, knocking you out. You have to get close to really hurt somebody, especially if the attacker is bigger than you.”

Step 2: Strike

There are several methods of striking that are effective. The key is to learn which methods work in specific situations.

  • Eyes

“If possible, attack the eyes first,” Proctor says. “The attacker might be bigger and              stronger than you, but nobody has strong eyeballs. If you can get close enough, use            both hands to poke or claw them.”

  • Neck

Another sensitive area to attack is the bottom of the neck near the collarbone. This          method comes in handy if you only have one free hand available. All it takes is a two        finger push to momentarily cut off air supply and startle the attacker long enough to        get away.

  • Ears

Using both hands to hit the attacker’s ears in a clapping motion can disturb balance           and even burst an eardrum. The abrupt force can cause disorientation and the pain           can hinder the attacker’s ability to focus on anything else.

To avoid a sticky situation, Proctor recommends additional safety tips:

  • Always use the buddy system, especially at night.
  • Carry pepper spray at all times.
  • Never accept a drink from anyone if you do not know where it came from.

For more information on self-defense or to schedule a session with Proctor, visit cooperfitnesscenter.com or call 972.233.4832.