Self Defence – Warning Signs of an Attack

Another very important aspect of self defence is learning to recognise the waning signs that an attack may be just about to occur. Work on improving your sensitivity to these basic waning signs and it may give you the vital few seconds you need to extract yourself from an attack or perhaps even avoid the attack occurring completely.

You need to try to be aware of a potential attackers body language and facial expressions. These will tend to change just before an attack and your awareness of these changes can allow you detect an agressors hostility before the situation becomes physical.

Here are some basic things you should look out for in a possible attacker:

• His speech may become very snappy and abrupt
• Beads of sweat may appear on his face
• His breathing patterns may change (becoming faster or deeper)
• His movements may become frenetic or exaggerated
• He may stare at areas where he will try to grab or hit
• His face may change color
• Be aware of changes to his stance or their shifting of weight back and forth (this can be a setup for an attack)
• Also be aware of any aggressive behaviour towards inanimate objects
• Removal of an item of clothing (coat, hat, gloves, etc.)

If a possible aggressor is showing one or more of the above signs he may well be readying to attack you. At this point find a quick and safe escape route as soon as you can and move confidently and calmly towards it. Don’t get engaged in any kind of threatening or insulting behaviour, just make it clear that you are “going home now”. If they move strongly to stop your exit you may find you have to strike first but at least you have made him clearly exhibit his intentions before having to resort to physical force.

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