The Importance of Three Stages for Self-Defence for Women
Regaining Confidence
In a society that often undermines women’s abilities, it is essential for women to regain their confidence. This is particularly true in self-defence, where societal norms frequently portray women as physically inferior. Phrases like “running like a girl,” “fighting like a girl,” and “throwing a stone like a girl” are not just derogatory but also deeply ingrained in our culture, perpetuating the notion that women are weaker and less capable. These expressions are rarely, if ever, used for boys, highlighting the gender bias. Through self-defence training, women can rebuild their confidence, realising they are just as capable as men, irrespective of size and muscle.
Breaking the Myth of Physical Inferiority
Self-defence training challenges the myth that women are physically inferior to men. In a male-dominated society, such beliefs are rampant, but they do not hold true when examined closely. Fighting, much like any other skill, is less about physical size and muscle and more about mindset, technique, and strategy. For instance, a smaller man can effectively defend himself against a larger opponent through skill and mental toughness. Similarly, women can learn to fight just as effectively as men, proving that physical strength is not the sole determinant of fighting capability.
The Three Stages of Self-Defence
Stage 1: Rebuilding Confidence and Awareness
The first stage focuses on rebuilding confidence and developing awareness. Women learn to understand the importance of controlled breathing and reawakening primitive reflexes. Exercises are designed to foster an understanding of distances in self-defence situations and to cultivate the right mindset. This stage emphasises that self-defence is not just about techniques but also about a mental approach. Women practice setting up a mindset of freedom, recognising their right to protect their life and dignity.
Stage 2: Advanced Techniques and Ground Defence
The second stage builds on the first, introducing more advanced techniques. It emphasises the importance of controlled breathing and primitive reflexes. Women learn how to move on the ground, receive their body when falling, and counterattack when under physical restraint. This stage also covers reactions to being slapped and how to apprehend a weapon. The focus is on practical, real-world scenarios where women might find themselves in vulnerable positions.
Stage 3: Fighting Back with Confidence
The final stage prepares women to defend themselves in the most challenging situations. This includes defence on the ground against strangulation, slaps, and punches. Women learn to fight back effectively, not just for self-preservation but to save their lives and maintain their integrity. The training extends to using natural weapons, going beyond repulsion and guilt to ensure survival. This stage reinforces the idea that self-defence is about maintaining control and striking back when necessary.
In conclusion, the three stages of self-defence training for women are designed to rebuild confidence, challenge societal myths of physical inferiority, and equip women with the skills and mindset needed to defend themselves effectively. Through these stages, women learn that their ability to fight has nothing to do with their size or muscle but everything to do with their mental strength and preparedness.