Living in America’s big cities can be frightening as crime rates increase. To reduce the risks of becoming a victim of violence, it is crucial to know what to do in a potentially dangerous situation. Rener Gracie, head instructor of jiu-jitsu at Gracie University in California, shared effective self-defense moves in situations where traditional tools like weapons may not be accessible. Gracie, whose family created Brazilian jiu-jitsu and the UFC, identified the four phases of assault as identifying a target, subduing and isolating them, controlling and exhausting, and carrying out the assault.
Gracie emphasized the importance of vigilance and confidence in avoiding and escaping dangerous situations. By staying aware of their surroundings and having hands free, individuals can be better prepared to react to potential threats. Learning a self-defense art like Brazilian jiu-jitsu can also provide a confidence boost and change a person’s aura, making them less likely to be seen as an easy target. Eye contact and verbal assertiveness can be helpful tactics in setting boundaries and deterring potential attackers, according to Gracie.
Despite the availability of self-defense tools like pepper sprays and stun guns, Gracie stressed that mastering self-defense skills to muscle memory is the most reliable form of protection. Brazilian jiu-jitsu, in particular, is a leverage-based method that does not rely on physical advantage. Through practice, individuals can develop core skills that could keep them safe during a violent encounter. Gracie noted that during an assault, the amygdala hijack triggers primal survival instincts, and jiu-jitsu can still be effective in those situations.
Gracie and his wife, Eve Torres, demonstrated effective self-defense maneuvers on “The Ingraham Angle,” showcasing techniques to set verbal boundaries and physically defend against an attacker. Leveraging eye contact, posture, and assertiveness can make potential predators think twice before targeting someone. Gracie emphasized the importance of feeling capable to enforce these preventative measures, especially for women in uncertain interactions with potential predators. The ultimate goal is to survive without injury, and honing self-defense skills can provide individuals with the confidence to protect themselves.
Women Empowered program offered by Gracie University teaches key self-defense maneuvers to empower individuals to protect themselves. The program focuses on leveraging Brazilian jiu-jitsu techniques that do not rely on physical strength or advantage. Gracie University has certified training centers worldwide that offer various self-defense courses for individuals of all ages. By mastering these skills into muscle memory, individuals can develop the core competencies necessary to defend themselves in a violent physical encounter. Ultimately, the goal is to equip individuals with the tools and confidence needed to navigate potentially dangerous situations and emerge unscathed.
