5 Step Self Defense Plan

The following 5 step formula comprises the ideas behind our self defense training. This is only listed as a guide and is used as required in various order, for example, the threat may end after step 3, therefore steps 4  and 5 are not required. To comprehend the formula, you are best to train the situation and awareness during class.

 

Step 1 Gage the situation

• How serious is the threat to you? You must evaluate the threat in a split second.

• Who and what is around? (how many attackers? any helpers? escape routes?)

• Any weapons at my disposal, what objects can I use to defend or help attack?

• Be in a state of readiness (hands up to shoulder height, palms out).

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Step 2 Manage the distance

• If you manage the distance, you manage the damage

• Three-foot rule (the distance where harm can be done)

• You can move faster forward than they can move back, be on the ball of your front foot.

 

Step 3 Attitude

• Start from a non-threatening manner

• Be humble, "I don't want any trouble", "I have a family", etc.

• Maintain eye contact, do not look away

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Step 4 Negotiate or Neutralize

• If you have not been touched, you have a duty to retreat. Can you escape the situation by running away?  If so, run away. This is the best option.

• If you can escape but chose to fight, that is not self-defense. You cannot sucker punch first lest you legally become that attacker. 

• Can you talk yourself out of the situation? If so, this is the second-best option.

• You do not have a duty to retreat if you have been touched, grabbed or punched. 

• For this to be self-defense you must use the least amount of force necessary to stop the attack

• Injuring or maiming your attacker could lead to charges of using excessive force and/or lawsuits.

• If they do try to punch you, you want to step into them and strike first. By stepping into them, it’s harder for them to throw a punch because you’re in so close. Generally in street fights, whoever throws the first punch usually wins.

• Never throw just one punch or execute just one technique.

 

Step 5 Submission

• Continue attacking until your opponent seeks to withdraw or can't continue

• Pin the attacker with a joint lock or choke and request pain compliance

• In NC, if your opponent submits or seeks to withdraw you must let him.

 

“Always remember your Hapkido Skills are never to be misused and are only to be applied in a Self-Defense situation when there are absolutely no other means of escape.” Grandmaster Bong Soo Han