Self defense class held by SOAR teaches students physical protection

Students Organized Against Rape (SOAR) hosted Gabrielle Rubin at the University on Oct. 11 for a physical self-defense demonstration following her target prevention information session last week.

This time, Rubin demonstrated various ways in which individuals could react if an attack ever reached a physical level.

Rubin began with some simple strikes that would definitely cause some pain to an attacker.

A quick jab using the pointer and middle fingers together can be surprisingly effective when used in the eyes, throat or solar plexus. For example, if a male is wearing a button down shirt, the solar plexus is right where the fourth button would lie.

Try to remember that you do not have to put your hands in fists; you will risk hurting yourself just as much as you are hurting the attacker.

Another sensitive area that an attacker would not expect—a strike to the ear. Rubin likes to call this, the "bitch slap." With a straight arm and a flat hand, this will really ring the attacker's bell as the base of your palm strikes right at the temple. When using this strike, put your hip into it; this will allow your arm to reach further, keeping as much distance as possible between you and the attacker.

Using your hips to thrust your body forward, clench your fist and swing at a 45 degree angle, making contact with the meaty part of your arm. Arms are also a shield; when swinging with one arm, keep the other up to protect yourself.

Elbows are a strong part of the body to use in self-defense. The follow-through is important when using elbows. This will allow you to swing back with a second strike in the opposite direction if you have to. Always look where you are striking to ensure that contact is made.

The underside of the chin is a very soft area that you can also target when trying to fight off an attacker. Keeping a tight arm and tight fist, swing upwards in an "answering the phone" motion to hit your mark.

The most common attack is usually from behind. If this happens, tuck your chin into the inside of the attacker's elbow so your airways are not cut off. Here, a foot stomp with the heel aimed right at the laces of the attacker's shoes is very effective.

Rubin also demonstrated kicking defenses from the floor, should one find themselves thrown down. "Once people hit the ground they think the fight is over. I'm here to tell you it's the safest place you can be," she said. Keep your elbow and palm down as a sort of "kickstand" to support yourself.

Student responses about the event were positive. "I think it's great to empower girls to protect themselves, especially in New York City where they may be more vulnerable," senior Kathleen Black said.