Core Principle
When your hair is grabbed and pulled forward/down, pulling back often makes it worse. Instead, momentarily move with the direction of the pull to reduce pain and scalp tension, then use that alignment to control the attacker’s wrist/arm and escape.
1) Clamp the grab
Immediately secure the grabbing hand/wrist with one or both hands to stop the yank and “lock” the grip.
2) Move with the force
Step/turn toward the same side the arm is pulling. This reduces pain and puts you in position to escape.
3) Duck under + circle
Keep hold of the hand, duck under the arm, and circle to spiral their joints and break the control.
4) Control → disengage
You’ll often end up beside/behind with the arm controlled. Create distance and leave once safe.
Common mistakes
- Pulling straight back against the grab (increases pain and control).
- Letting go of the hand too early (re-grab risk).
- Trying to strike first while your head is controlled.
- Stopping halfway through the circle (commit to continuous motion).
Training & safety note
Practice slowly at first. Communicate with your partner and tap early. Wrist/shoulder locks can injure quickly if forced at speed. In real life, the goal is escape and safety — once you’re free, create distance and leave.
