Disengage
Create space, break contact, and leave safely. Escape is the goal — not “winning”.
🚪 What “Disengage” Means
Disengage is the moment you leave the danger behind. It is not about continuing to fight, controlling the attacker, or proving anything.
If you can disengage safely, the encounter is over. Everything before this point exists to make disengagement possible.
🎯 Why Disengage Is the Priority
The longer an encounter continues, the more unpredictable it becomes. Injury risk increases with time.
- More time = more risk
- More movement = more unpredictability
- More engagement = higher injury potential
Disengaging early dramatically reduces harm.
📏 Creating Space
Space is safety. Even small gaps can be enough to escape.
- Push, frame, or step away
- Angle off instead of retreating straight back
- Use obstacles to widen distance
- Keep moving until contact is fully broken
🏃 Leaving Safely
Once space is created, leave immediately. Do not stop to look back or re-engage.
- Move toward light, people, and exits
- Increase distance before slowing down
- Shout for help if appropriate
- Get to a place of safety
🧠 Common Disengagement Errors
- Stopping too early
- Turning back to “check”
- Continuing to argue or posture
- Chasing distance instead of exits
Once disengagement starts, commit fully.
⚖️ Legal & Safety Reminder
Self-defence ends when the threat ends.
Continuing force after disengagement can create legal problems.
🧠 Disengage Awareness Quiz
Your answers will be explained.
