Defend
Protect yourself when contact cannot be avoided — always with escape in mind.
🛡️ What “Defend” Means
Defend is used only when avoidance, deterrence, and disruption have failed.
It focuses on simple, high-percentage actions that work under stress — not complex techniques or prolonged fighting.
⚠️ When Defend Is Appropriate
- You are grabbed or restrained
- Your movement is blocked
- You are being physically assaulted
- You cannot disengage immediately
Defend is about survival and escape — not punishment or control.
🎯 High-Percentage Principles
- Protect your head, neck, and airway
- Maintain balance and base
- Target space, not dominance
- Use gross motor movements
- Prioritise breaking contact
🧠 Stress Reality
Under stress, fine motor skills degrade. Memory narrows. Timing suffers.
This is why defensive actions must be:
- Simple
- Repeatable
- Instinctive
🚪 Escape-Focused Defence
Every defensive action should immediately link to an escape.
- Create space
- Break grips or holds
- Change levels or angles
- Move toward exits, light, or people
⚖️ Legal & Ethical Reminder
Defence must be reasonable and proportionate.
The goal is to stop the threat and escape — nothing more.
🧠 Defend Awareness Quiz
Your answers will be explained.

