Practical Self-Defense Moves for Real-Life Scenarios

22. The Headbutt: The Last-Resort Attack

A headbutt is a brutal and effective last-resort move when you are in an extremely close-quarters situation. The goal is to use the hardest part of your head—the forehead—to strike the softest part of an attacker’s—their nose or chin. This move is most effective when the attacker is grabbing you from behind or pinning you in a bear hug. By driving your forehead back into their face, you can cause immense pain and disorientation. This move should only be used in a situation where your life is in imminent danger, as it carries a high risk but an even higher reward for your escape.

23. The "L" Shape Block: A Fundamental Defense

While your list covers the basic guard, a simple and effective defensive technique is the "L" shape block. If an attacker throws a punch, a simple, firm forearm block in an "L" shape can deflect the blow. To perform it, bring your forearm up to a 90-degree angle, with your elbow close to your body. As the attacker's punch comes in, use the bony part of your forearm to meet their punch, diverting the force away from you. This is a fundamental technique for absorbing a blow and can be practiced easily with a partner, turning your arms into a powerful shield.