This article was taken from the August 2011 issue of Wired magazine. Be the first to read Wired's articles in print before they're posted online, and get your hands on loads of additional content by subscribing online.
USE SURPRISE "When a guy is in your face, hit hard and hit first if you can," says Luke Holloway, an expert in close-quarters combat and self-defence. "If you put your guard up, he knows you want to fight."
SLAP 'EM "The displacement of energy through a palm is greater than through a fist, so there's a much better chance of a knockout," says Richard Grannon, a self-protection instructor.
CHECK POSTURE "If you lean too far forward, your attacker can pull you over; too far back, and you can easily be pushed over," says Holloway. "Bend your knees and keep your elbows tucked in."
NO EYE CONTACT
Keep your eyes on the centre of your opponent's chest. This allows you to see all of his movement. "If you look into their eyes, you risk getting scared or intimidated," advises Holloway.
COMBINATIONS
You will need to incapacitate your opponent quickly. "I'd bring my hands up [from my sides]," says Holloway. "Push them [in the face], strike, kick to the groin, strike again -- and then run for it."
This article was originally published by WIRED UK
