SELF DEFENCE Syllabus

kyu 4-7yrs 7-15yrs Adult WHITE Self Defence 1 & 2 Self Defence 1 & 2 BLUE Self Defence 1 Self Defence 3 & 4 Self Defence 3 & 4 Knife Defence 1 ADV BLUE Self Defence 2 Self Defence 5 Self Defence 5 & 6 Knife Defence 1 YELLOW Self Defence 3 Self Defence 6 Self Defence 7 & 8 Knife Defence 2 ADV YELLOW Self Defence 4 Self Defence 7 & 8 Self Defence 9 & 10 Knife Defence 2 GREEN Self Defence 5 & 6 Self Defence 9 & 10 Extended SD 1-5 Knife Defence 3 ADV GREEN Self Defence 7 & 8 Extended SD 1-3 Extended SD 5-10 Knife Defence 3 Knife Defence 4 BROWN Self Defence 9 & 10 Extended SD 4-6 Knife Defence 5 Knife Defence 1 SD hook ADV BROWN Extended SD 1-3 Knife Defence 4 Extended SD all Striking Knife Defence 2 SD Kicks Attacks (kick / punch) Shodan Extended SD 7-10 SD Counter 1-10 + Grabs Knife Defence 5 Knife Defence 6 Nidan Knife Defence 6 Knife Defence 7

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Contents SELF DEFENSE ...... 3

Self defence Combinations Overview ...... 3 Self Defence 1 ...... 5 Self Defence 2 ...... 5 Self Defence 3 ...... 6 Self Defence 4 ...... 6 Self Defence 5 ...... 7 Self Defence 6 ...... 7 Self defence 7 ...... 8 Self defence 8 ...... 8 Self defence 9 ...... 9 Self defence 10 ...... 9 Self defence Variations ...... 10

Knife Defence ...... 12 Knife Defence level 1 ...... 12 Knife Defence level 2 ...... 13 Knife Defence level 3 ...... 13 Knife Defence level 4 ...... 14 Knife Defence level 5 ...... 14 Knife Defence level 6 ...... 16 Knife Defence level 7 ...... 16 Knife Defence level 8 ...... 16

Self Defence Counters ...... 17 Self Defence Counter 1 ...... 17 Self Defence Counter 2 ...... 17 Self Defence Counter 3 ...... 17 Self Defence Counter 4 ...... 18 Self Defence Counter 5 ...... 18 Self Defence Counter 6 ...... 18 Self Defence Counter 7 ...... 19 Self Defence Counter 8 ...... 19 Self Defence Counter 9 ...... 19 Self Defence Counter 10 ...... 19

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SELF DEFENSE Self defence Combinations Overview

Self Defence 1-10

The self defence combinations are pre-arranged combinations designed to develop the self defence skills of the student. These are initially taught using formal techniques and stances, this gives them a clearly defined structure that can be practiced as a solo movement. These are however designed to be practiced with a partner and will be practiced this way the majority of the time. When practicing these with a partner there is some flexibility in the movement, the emphasis should be on developing effective application of these techniques. As students progress these combinations should become fast, flowing and less formal. The formalized solo practice however closely approximates actual application to enable a smooth simple transition from the practiced concepts to the actual application as the student develops this understanding.

All basic self defence are initially practiced against a middle punch delivered from fighting stance. The attacker steps forward with their left leg while delivering either a reverse (right) or lunge (left) middle punch.

Extended Self Defence 1-10

For each self defence combination there is an extension, these involve take downs, locks and finishes. These add on to the initial combination.

In these the attacker is being taken to the ground and you need to be aware if this is appropriate, and the appropriate level of force that can be used with the partner you are working with. When practicing these with more junior partners you can perform the extension as a solo movement after completing the initial combination with the partner, ie. without taking them to the ground.

As with everything we do care must be taken to ensure that our training partners are comfortable with the exercises being performed so you should always check with your training partner before doing these if they have done them before and make sure they are comfortable doing them. Some people, due to injuries, age, and experience and so on may not be comfortable with differing levels of force. You should also be aware of the training surface; if you are training on a hard floor then you will need to take this into consideration also. You should always allow the attacker dictate the speed and power used. Likewise when you are the attacker if you are comfortable with your partner using a greater amount of force let them know, there are benefits that can be gained by both parties in increasing the intensity.

Extended Self Defence all attacks.

Both the regular and Extended Self Defence combinations can be used as defence against other attacks beside a middle punch which they are initially learned as a response to. The attack may be a punch, grab, shove or hook punch.

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There is some slight modification of the techniques when catering for these various attacks however the basic combination remains the same. These various attacks may be introduced at any stage however they will only be required for promotion purposes when promoting to black belt or above.

Self Defence Counters 1-10.

These are learnt at black belt level.

The self defence counters teach a response to the self defence combinations to counter these. When doing these the attacker (person delivering the punch) does so as they normally would and the other person then does the self defence combination as they normally would without modification. The attacker then however proceeds to counter this defence.

As the self defence combination with the extension is unchanged the counters can be practiced against students who know the self defence combinations regardless of their knowledge of the counters. This expands the opportunity for those learning these combinations to practice them.

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Self Defence 1 • Right leg steps back into back leaning stance (left leg in front), loading up for Left outside block. (sink into stance for power when moving forward) • Left outside block. • Left leg slides at 45 degrees forward. • Step forward with left leg into gliding stance, • Reverse punch to the ribs. (focus on hip turn to increase power) • Return to start position. The basic concept here is one of moving to the outside line of the attack. When the attack comes the defender creates distance to enable a block of the attack and then moves to the outside line.

Extended Self Defence 1 • Right hand slides up under attackers punching arm, across chest to far shoulder, knife edge of hand is used to apply pressure to collarbone / inside of shoulder. • Right leg steps behind attackers right leg. • Sink into horse stance as attacker is pulled in front to effect takedown. o For larger attacker / more power left arm can reach up and grabs right hand. • Finish with strike to downed attacker.

Self Defence 2 • Right leg steps back into back leaning stance (left leg in front), loading up for Left outside block. (sink into stance for power when moving forward) • Left outside block. • Left leg slides at 45 degrees forward. • Step forward with left leg into gliding stance, • Reverse punch to head, turning hips, left hand covers head. (hip turn to increase power) • Left upper cut to ribs. (elbow should be locked at hip, hips turn) • Right hook to solar plexus. (elbow should be locked at hip, hips turn) • Return to start position. The follows the same concept of moving off line as SD 1. Adds the concept of opposing hip turns to develop power in combination strikes. Also adds the concept of not using arms to punch but body weight from hip turn.

Extended Self Defence 2 • Right hand moves up after punch to strike bicep then lock attackers arm, right elbow should be close to the attackers right elbow reinforce right arm by grabbing right wrist and pulling in with left hand. (when doing with speed the 3rd punch may be left out before strike to bicep or all punches may be left out). • Takedown may be effected just using trapped arm as detailed by pushing right shoulder forward or use left hand then right reinforcing to apply wrist lock to attackers right arm. • Step forward as applying lock to effect takedown. • Finish with strike to downed attacker.

Note: for both 1 & 2 the defender is moving to the outside of the arm, using the body angulation of the step back to weave away from the attack or in the case of the gab to destabilise the attacker.

The extensions cover the attacker retaliating to this counter with a strike from either arm.

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Self Defence 3 • Left leg steps back into back leaning stance (right leg in front), loading up for right outside block. (sink into stance for power when moving forward) • Right outside block. • Slide right leg 45 degrees toward attacker while executing Right back fist to face of attacker. • Left leg comes forward into gliding stance. • Reverse punch to mid section. (hip turn to increase power) • Return to start position. Here the concept is to move inside the attacker’s line. The blocking hand delivers the counter strike without pause or retraction.

Extended Self Defence 3 • Left hand slides up after punch across chest (depending on positioning and size of attacker / defender hand may go under arm or target shoulder as in SD 1). • Right arm goes over attackers left arm. • Left leg steps behind attackers left leg. • Sink into horse stance as attacker is pulled in front to effect takedown. • As attacker falls right arm creates arm lock against attackers left arm. • Finish with strike to downed attacker.

Self Defence 4 • Left leg steps back into back leaning stance (right leg in front), loading up for right outside block. (sink into stance for power when moving forward) • Outside block with right hand left hand is up, so that attackers arm is guided into left arm by right. • Trap attacker’s wrist or grab sleeve using tensho. • Knife hand strike to Jaw as pulling in by arm. • Right knee kick to mid section. (actual application would be knee to groin or face) Same as SD 3 move inside line. Adds concept of generating power through seizing the opponent and pulling them into technique being delivered.

Extended Self Defence 4 • After the Knee kick, slide head under attackers right arm in a ducking motion. • Left hand reaches around attackers back and grabs head. Right hand comes up under attacker’s right arm. • Slide right hand down arm to elbow / wrist. • Apply arm bar across chest as head is turned in opposite direction. • Right hand palm heel strike to exposed side of neck, hand remains under attackers arm. • Left hand pulls back as left elbow applies pressure to shoulder / back, same time right hand pulls back on shoulder, taking attacker to ground. • Left hand controls head from under chin. • Right palm heel across nose from behind. Note: for both 3 & 4 the defender is moving to the inside of the arm, using the body angulation of the step back to weave away from the attack or in the case of the gab to destabilise the attacker. The defender should be aware that in this situation the attacker can more easily deliver subsequent blows than in 1 & 2 where moving to the outside line makes this more difficult.

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Self Defence 5 • Steps back into modified Forward leaning stance, left leg in front right leg slightly bent with heel up, loading up for left forearm block. • Left forearm block to inside of attackers arm and right palm heel strike to nose simultaneously. (step and bock / strike should all happen together) • Right hand grabs Gi lapel / neck. • Rear leg Knee to sternum as moving forward. • Circular descending elbow to head as foot returns to ground after knee. (to allow strike to be completed without hitting attacker elbow comes down in front of shoulder) Shows concept of simultaneous defence and counter.

Extended Self Defence 5 • After the elbow right arm continues down and hooks under attackers arm. • At the same time your body turns in a clockwise direction until your back is to the attacker. • Push back with hips breaking attackers balance. • Right arm is still locking attackers arm, left hand grabs wrist or gi. • Bring arm to side of shoulder for hip throw to side. • Throw attacker to ground, keep control of arm and strike.

Self Defence 6 • Step forward into forward leaning stance (right leg in front), loading up for right forearm block. • Left forearm block to inside of attackers arm and right forearm / knife hand strike to inside of neck / jaw simultaneously. (forward momentum from step forward will increase power of strike) • Left hand circles to back of elbow / shoulder • Left leg steps forward as you move toward attackers shoulder, both arms apply pressure to back of elbow / shoulder and defenders left elbow is lifted creating arm bar. • Continue to apply pressure bringing the attacker forward. • Right descending elbow to back of head dropping into horse and straddle stance. Introduces arm lock. This technique can also be effective if practiced against throat grab while against wall, slamming attacker into wall.

Extended Self Defence 6 • After the elbow to back of head, drop right hand grabs attackers right wrist and pulls it up behind attackers back. Left hand reaches across under attackers arm and grabs your own right wrist to create figure 4 lock. • Pull attacker forward at same time bringing them fully to the ground. • As the attacker drops to the ground go down on left knee to maintain control, Left hand grabs wrist in wrist lock (thumb on back of hand). Right hand applies downward pressure to shoulder to prevent escape. • Attackers arm is straightened in wrist lock to create arm lock and apply pressure to shoulder, causing them to submit (tap). Note: 5 & 6 continue to move to the inside line the same as 3 & 4 however now a simultaneous block and strike are used, this reduces the likelihood of follow up strikes in this more vulnerable position (as opposed to the outside line). From this point of view these strategies have an advantage in a real situation.

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Self defence 7 • Right leg steps back into back leaning stance. • Right Inside block. • Trap attackers wrist with right tensho, grab right sleeve / arm with left hand. • Turn hips and drops slightly deeper into stance to use body weight to pull attacker forward. • Left leg steps forward into modified forward leaning as attacker moves forward. • Strike with right forearm / ridge hand to head. (this strike is performed as the attacker falls forward from pull) Move off line and use attackers momentum to make unbalancing easy, then their momentum increases the power delivered from strike.

Extended Self Defence 7 • As you strike with right forearm to head left palm moves to back ready for takedown. • Apply pressure to back with left hand as right hand pushes on head or throat. • Take attacker backwards to ground. • As attacker falls to ground trap right wrist with right hand / arm. Left arm sieves tricep. • Left shin is pressed hard against attackers neck / head. • Right leg steps across attacker, lean back going to ground and right kick to attackers face. • Bring leg down across chest, lift hips and apply arm bar.

Self defence 8 • Shift to left as moving into back leaning stance, right leg in front, facing into attacker. • Right Inside block at same time. • Left upper cut to floating ribs as transitioning to gliding stance. (emphasise hip turn) • Continue forward momentum to execute circular left knee to upper thigh. • Step behind attacker into back leaning stance. (The follow through from the upper cut to the knee to step behind should all be one fluid continuous movement) • Both hands grab bear claw to face (don’t actually grab) and pull back and down, stepping into back leaning stance. (grab and pull down is executed with speed and power simulating a slam to the ground, hence reason to not actually grab) This teaches moving through the attackers’ line behind them, from where many effective techniques can easily be applied.

Extended Self Defence 8 • Left hand reaches around head and grabs chin, left elbow against back shoulder. • Right hand grabs head near temple with right elbow against shoulder. • Both hands twist head, then pull back as elbows apply pressure to shoulder, to take attacker to the ground. • As they go down continue to move backwards, keeping control of their head. • Strike with palm heel to nose, pushing nose toward chin (left hand is still under chin).

Note: 7 & 8 go back to the concept of moving to the outside line the same as 1 & 2. Now balance displacement is being facilitated from this superior position. The use of the attackers momentum to inflict damage will allow a smaller defender to diminish a larger attacker.

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Self defence 9 • Right leg steps back into back leaning stance, left hand right outside block, creating an initial parry of the attackers arm. • Right hand moves outside left and block modified upper trapping attackers wrist with tensho grab. • The right leg moves 270 degrees in same motion as back turn in Taikyoku kata. (the aim is for the cover and block to be completed in a fluid motion combined with a fluid transition between the step back and step forward) • Finish in modified back leaning stance left leg in front turned in same direction attacker is facing. • Pull trapped hand to waist as left hand applies arm bar in outside block motion. • Finish in modified horse stance, with attackers bent forward. • Left arm pulls back and quickly executes Left palm heel strike to attackers hyper-extended elbow. Introduces the cover, shift and block evasion moving to outside line.

Extended Self Defence 9 • After left hand strikes to arm, left hand slides along arm with plam down, fingers wrap around wrist and thumb applies pressure to back of hand. • Right hand reinforces left in same grip. • As attackers hand opens left hand grabs hand. Fingers on palm, thumb inside their thumb, palm on back of wrist. • Right hand grabs elbow as left hand moves in uppercut to rib motion to effect arm lock. • Apply pressure with right thumb pressing above outside of elbow. • Palm heel strike to face with right hand.

Self defence 10 • Left leg steps back into back leaning stance, right hand covers face, creating an initial parry of the attackers arm. • Left hand block modified upper while right leg steps forward toward attackers arm. • Left hand continues in a circular motion front the modified upper block to trap attackers wrist. • Right elbow to side of head as arm is pulled by left hand. • Extend right arm applying pressure to neck with elbow to bring attacker forward. • Right knee to face. Introduces the cover, shift and block evasion moving to inside line.

Extended Self Defence 10 • Slide right hand under left shoulder, keeping right elbow on back of neck. • Left palm to back of right shoulder. • Right hand lifts while right elbow pushes on back of neck, same time left hand pushes down. • Flip attacker over and take to ground. • Finish punch to downed attacker.

Note 9 & 10 introduce the cover and shift that incorporates the use of both arms in blocking, this can be a more flexible means of blocking as it’s more effective against the hook punch or haymaker of an untrained attacker.

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Self defence Variations The application of the self defence combinations to various attacks enables the principles being initially learned to be generalized for use in various scenarios. Although there is a requirement for different variations to be learnt at different levels, defence against these variations can be practiced at lower levels. In this way the understanding of the general principles is gained over the course of training and there is significant variation and variety in the practice while still giving a manageable and structured amount to remember at different levels.

Self defence by it’s very nature is complex, the use of variations on our standard self defence caters for this complexity in a very structured way. It also however means that there are various changes to the standard defence against some variations. In understanding the techniques we are practicing and the principles being applied these changes should become self evident to the practitioner. For example is you are defending against a hook punch and need to be on the ‘outside’ then you need to first transition to the outside.

Upper punch This is the default variation for practice when doing the extensions. The use of middle punch when initially learning is much less confronting and safer for those first starting however a punch towards the head is a much more common in self defence situations. Hook punch The hook can vary from a large circular telegraphed attack to a much shorter punch directed to the side of the jaw. Although the defence’s for these variations of the attack will be essentially the same the larger movement is simpler to defend against so should be practiced when initially learning this variation. Uppercut to ribs Or also known as a rip to the body, this is a rising punch towards the floating ribs. This attack also requires the attacker to close to a shorter distance and then the defender to adjust their movements to compensate for this closer distance. Kicks Performing the self defence combinations and the counters against kicks does require a slightly greater degree of adaption that for the punch variations however again the principles being applied are kept consistent. For example in number 4 instead of trapping the arm you are trapping the leg, then for the extension the takedown must be performed from the inside rather than outside. The attacks are as follows: 1+2 front kick; 3+4 roundhouse; 5+6 knee kick; 7+8 hook kick; 9+10 side kick. In some ways these are arbitrary as the same techniques could be practiced against various kicks. However it’s also true that some work better than others against certain kicks, which has lead to them being practiced in the order they are.

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Arm Grabs All these are performed when the attacker seizes the wrist(s) of the defender. This significantly changes the distancing but also significantly changes the initial response or entry to the defence. The grab attacks are as follows: 1-4 single hand grabs: 1 right hand grabs right wrist; 2 right hand grabs left wrist; 3 right hand grabs raised left wrist; 4 right hand grabs raised right wrist; 5-8 front double hand grabs: 5+6 one hand to each wrists; 7+8 both hands grab left wrist 9-10 rear double hand grabs: 9 grab both hands behind back; 10 grab both hands in front of body reaching around from behind.

The closer proximity of these also facilitates the use of a distraction prior to the defence, this is normally practiced as a stomp to the foot when stepping forward or kick to the shin before stepping back. This is an important self defence concept that this introduces.

Chokes Choking is both a relatively common and dangerous form of assault. Like the arm grabs chokes alter the distancing significantly but also require a very swift response as delay can lead to loss of the power to respond effectively die to restriction of blood/oxygen to the brain. Choke attacks are as follow: 1-4 right hand to throat. 5-8 both hands to throat from front. 9-10 both hands to throat from rear.

Like the grabs the closer proximity of these also facilitates the use of a distraction prior to the defence, this is normally practiced as a stomp to the foot when stepping forward or kick to the shin before stepping back. This is an important self defence concept that this introduces.

The initial reaction to the choke should also include the tensing of the neck muscles and change in angle of the body to reduce the effectiveness of the choke.

4 Themes 4 themes is a way to study different self defence responses to ensure a complete understanding of the scenario or techniques being studied. These are applied to the extended self defences, the entry becomes variable and the goal is to effectively transition from the entry to the finish. So the finishes remain the same but the entry is variable, in 4 ways.

When we step forward or back we will always have a front and rear hand. So we have four initial response options, block with our front or back hand each of these followed by a strike with either our front of rear hand. 1. Front Rear: font hand block, rear hand strike. 2. Front Front: front hand block, front hand strike. 3. Rear Front: rear hand block, front hand strike. 4. Rear Rear: rear hand block, rear hand strike.

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Knife Defence Defending against an armed attacker when the defender is unarmed is one of the greatest challenges in martial arts. The attacker has a significant combative advantage with greater reach and destructive capacity. Obviously the best solution is not to become engaged in a confrontation with an armed attacker but failing that the strategies taught here provide a good chance of a positive outcome.

The first 4 knife defence strategies address the initial confrontation. At this point it is likely the attacker will generally be fully functional and committed to the attack. Attempting to seize the attacker or a disarm at this point is inappropriate as the likelihood of success is low and the close proximity required to do this creates a significant risk of being stabbed or cut. Rather the strategy used here is to parry the initial attack and create distance between the defender and attacker. Following this up with diminishing techniques if required.

These defences work against both static attacks, where the attacker it holding the weapon toward or against the defender as well as dynamic attacks there the attacker is slashing or stabbing. These are relatively simple movements but must be practiced repeatedly in order to obtain the functionality required to be effective in the stress of an actual knife attack.

Knife Defence Attack / Defence pattern: • The attacker will either begin with a static attack (1 and 2 normally start this way when first learning) or a slashing attack (3 and 4 only work against high slashing attacks, 1 and 2 work against both slashing and static attacks from all angles). • The defender uses the appropriate parry technique against this initial attack. • Attacker follows up with slash from one side then other side then straight thrust. • Defender uses appropriate diminishment technique against these. • For Jamming / Disarming a final attack is delivered after this, this may be from any angle or a set side / angle depending on the skill / stage of learning of the defender.

Knife Defence level 1 Arm hits: Striking to the attackers arm in order to diminish the attacker and maintain distance. These are executed using weapon in forward grip, reverse grip or with empty hands. A circular motion should be used in strikes. Same side parry down: Bring your palms together at the centreline of your body around chest hight and draw a heart shape in the air with them finishing together at groin height. This is the line your hands follow in the blocking motion for this defence. • Attacker places knife against side of neck. • Defender uses heart shaped block to parry away attack. • As the upward motion of the heart completes and the downward motion begins the thumb is extended to catch the arm. (do not grab the arm just create a block it can not move past) • Now push the attacker away to create distance. When pushing the arm(s) used to push should be locked straight body weight being used to create the momentum to create distance. A smaller defender may end up pushing them selves back, the important thing is that enough energy is generated to create a quick separation. The push can be in the form of: o Free hand – the hand not blocking the knife performs the push, this is the simplest push and should be the preference.

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o Both hands – where the knife hand / arm is no longer being controlled (the attacker has withdrawn it) then both hands may be used, there is a risk of re-attack in this scenario. o Parry hand – the hand that blocked can be used to push, in this case the free hand may assume control of the attackers arm or control may be surrendered. This defence may be required if injury has occurred in the initial attack. • Assume defensive stance, leave the scene or access a weapon / improvised weapon. • Add in arm hits to protect against re-attack

Knife Defence level 2 Shielding: While one hand blocks the attack the other performs an arm hit. This provides an added level of protection and control for the arm hit, it does however involve the risk of the blocking hand being struck in the process. Shielding can also be used with improvised weapons including larger items like handbags, school bags or laptops, in this case the shielding motion uses both hands to strike with the object being used as a shield. Opposite side parry down: Perform an outside blocking motion with the arm on the opposite side to that of the attack. As the arm comes level with the outside of the body the hand drops in a circular motion allowing the back of the hand to come against the arm, this hand is open the arm being caught between the thumb and fingers. • Attacker places knife against side of neck. • Defender uses the outside parry down to fend away the attack. • Now push the attacker away to create distance. When pushing the arm(s) used to push should be locked straight body weight being used to create the momentum to create distance. A smaller defender may end up pushing them selves back, the important thing is that enough energy is generated to create a quick separation. The push can be in the form of: o Free hand – the hand not blocking the knife performs the push, this is the simplest push and should be the preference. o Both hands – where the knife hand / arm is no longer being controlled (the attacker has withdrawn it) then both hands may be used, there is a risk of re-attack in this scenario. o Parry hand – the hand that blocked can be used to push, in this case the free hand may assume control of the attackers arm or control may be surrendered. This defence may be required if injury has occurred in the initial attack. • Assume defensive stance, leave the scene or access a weapon / improvised weapon. • Add in arm hits / shielding to protect against re-attack

Knife Defence level 3 Cross hit: While one hand parries an attack past the other strikes / slashes in the opposite direction. This provides an added level of control and increases the poser of the strike at the attackers arm is being pushed into it. It does however commit both hands to dealing with their single hand attack, potentially leaving you vulnerable to a simultaneous attack with the attackers other hand. Same side parry up: With the elbow at the centre line of the body the hand is cupped in a seat type position catching the attackers arm about 1/3rd the way down the arm from the elbow. An upward and inward motion is used to create a bubble effect, deflecting the attack over the defenders head. As this movement reaches it’s highest point the thumb is extended to prevent/catch any re-attack. • Attacker steps forward and slashes with a downward forehand or downward backhand motion at the defender. • Defender uses the same side parry up to fend away the attack. (left arm against right) • Now push the attacker away to create distance. The push here is the same as for the parry down defences but at this level forearm shove is also introduced. Where the attacker is too

close to lock the arm out to push the whole forearm is placed against the attacker and again a body weight shove is used. The push can be in the form of: o Free hand / arm – the hand not blocking the knife performs the push, this is the simplest push and should be the preference. o Both hands / arms – where the knife hand / arm is no longer being controlled (the attacker has withdrawn it) then both hands may be used, there is a risk of re-attack in this scenario. o Parry hand / arm – the hand that blocked can be used to push, in this case the free hand may assume control of the attackers arm or control may be surrendered. This defence may be required if injury has occurred in the initial attack. • Assume defensive stance, leave the scene or access a weapon / improvised weapon. • Add in arm hits / shielding / cross hits to protect against re-attack

Knife Defence level 4 Jamming: Jamming involves stopping the attack and delivering a simultaneous counter attack. Jamming is particularly effective with empty hand defence as it uses the attackers momentum against them. Where the attack being delivered in a forearm strike (either high or low) the defender jams (blocks) close to the wrist using a knife hand block. Where the attack is a backhand (either high or low) the defender jams with the palm close to the elbow. While Jamming a simultaneous strike is delivered though the strike can be high or low (groin / floating ribs / head) independent of the attack for maximum effectiveness it should be high when the strike is low or low when the strike is high. Opposite side parry up: An upper block motion is performed catching the attackers arm close to the wrist. As contact is made the hand hooks up in and catches the arm of the attacker drawing it up and over the defenders head. As the attackers arm crosses the centreline of the body the defenders hand turns outward catching the arm between the thumb and fingers to prevent re-attack. • Attacker steps forward and slashes with a downward forehand or downward backhand motion at the defender. • Defender uses the opposite side parry up to fend away the attack (right arm against right). • Now push the attacker away to create distance. The push here is the same as those for the previous defence. The push can be in the form of: o Free hand / arm – the hand not blocking the knife performs the push, this is the simplest push and should be the preference. o Both hands / arms – where the knife hand / arm is no longer being controlled (the attacker has withdrawn it) then both hands may be used, there is a risk of re-attack in this scenario. o Parry hand / arm – the hand that blocked can be used to push, in this case the free hand may assume control of the attackers arm or control may be surrendered. This defence may be required if injury has occurred in the initial attack. • Assume defensive stance, leave the scene or access a weapon / improvised weapon. • Add in arm hits / shielding / cross hits / Jamming to protect against re-attack. Generally a Jam will not be attempted against the first re-attack, but the momentum or this attack and subsequent attacks make the jam more effective against 2nd / 3rd… attacks.

Knife Defence level 5 Disarms: Disarms involve first being able to grab and control the attackers hand / wrist. For this reason in most circumstances you must diminish your attacker before attempting a disarm. Failing to do this risks you grabbing your attacker but not being able to control them and hence being in close range when you lose control, this situation will be very difficult to recover from.

Attack is done same as Knife Defence 4, any parry is used, then any of the diminishing techniques. Finally after the straight thrust the attacker will draw the knife back and attack again, on this final technique disarm is executed. This final attack can be any slash or stab.

When trapping the attackers arm you will find yourself in one of two situations, you will be sieving the arm with the thumb of the attackers hand towards your grip (from above the arm) or with the thumb away from your grip (from below the arm).

Disarming from above. Initially apply downward force with both hands to the wrist at the same time bringing head to attackers shoulder to protect from punches with attackers free hand. If the attacker attempts to retract their arm force the knife back past their leg then drive it into their upper thigh or buttocks. If they attempt to continue to drive the knife toward you bring it in an upward motion turning to over and pushing it into their body.

Disarming from below. With the hand on the outside of the arm grab the wrist / hand and begin to apply wrist lock to weaken grip and induce compliance. Hand on the inside or the arm applies pressure to maintain control of arm.

Alternate follow ups: • Disarm using wrist. The hand on the outside continues to apply wrist lock, hand on the inside moves in a circular motion and the wrist applies pressure to the sideofthe knife blade levering it from the attackers hand. • Seize Knife. The hand on the outside continues to apply wrist lock, the thumb of the other hand slides inside the attackers thumb allowing you to grab the knife and take it from the attacker. • Thrust knife into attacker. The hand on the outside continues to apply wrist lock, the other hand moves under the attackers hand then apply upward pressure with both hands driving knife into attackers body.

Reacting to ambush attack. Start with attacker pushing knife (using a metal trainer) into defender. Must move, parry and create distance before continuing using strategies and responses as detailed in knife defence 1-5.

Knife Defence level 6 The level 6 drill is a partner drill where both partners have a training knife. Use 4 parries to parry attacks delivered from within striking range. Partners strike alternately immediately following their strike with the parry of the other persons strike. 1. This drill is initially done with all strikes being parried by the free check hand and attackers just following the parry, strike pattern with random strikes. 2. The knife hand is now used to check some of the strikes instead of the check hand. When the knife hand is used to check a strike it is then used to immediately counter strike directly from the check. 3. Insert arm cuts. At the same time as the parry cut to the arm similar to a shielding motion, or omit the parry and just use the arm cut. 4. Insert eye jabs. The check hand goes directly from the parry to a eye jab. In the drill the eye jab is simulated by a tap to the forehead. 5. Insert arm traps, following the parry with a grab to seize hold of the attackers wrist with the check hand. 6. Wrist releases. a. When the wrist is grabbed use strike to the inside of the wrist of the hand seizing arm to weaken grip and quickly pull hand back or drive it forward. b. Grab the wrist of the arm seizing your arm with your check hand, at the same time move the elbow of the trapped arm towards the elbow of the arm seizing it. Pull arm seizing your wrist forward as you move / pull arm free in the opposite direction. This puts you outside the attackers line, strike to attackers body with knife as you move past them. 7. Disarm. From the wrist trap move into a disarm. Disarms at this point are the same as those detailed in level 5. Alternate versions of this drill can be done using improvised weapons v’s knife.

Knife Defence level 7 The strategies from Self defence combinations 1-10 are used to defend against a knife attack. In doing so the attack can begin as a static attack or a striking attack. Creating distance and diminishment can be used in combination with controls and finishes from self defence combinations, while adjusting for the dynamics of an edged weapon.

Knife Defence level 8 Perform knife defence level 6 drill with the following additions: 1. Stalemates and stalemate counters. A stalemate is where both partners have simultaneously grabbed the others wrist. To counter list their arm use back of neck to break their grip on your knife hand and strike to kidney area. 2. Counter stalemate counter. As your opponent moves under arm to counter stalemate release wrist and step away. 3. Use palm to check eye jabs. These are particularly difficult to counter, check hand must be at neck to ensure you will be able to parry strike. 4. Use x check upper or lower to move to outside and apply head control / arm bar take downs to exit out of drill as a finishing alternative to disarm.

Self Defence Counters In the self defence counters the initial attacker counters the defender response. The defender is performing the self defence combinations as stated in 1-10 with the extensions without modification, although some of the counters prevent them from completing these combinations.

Self Defence Counter 1 A. Slide in right middle punch. D. Right leg steps back into back leaning stance, Left outside block, Left leg slides at 45 degrees forward. Step forward with left leg into gliding stance. Reverse punch to the ribs. A. As punch comes, right forearm block. D. Right hand slides up under attackers punching arm, across chest to far shoulder, knife edge of hand is used to apply pressure to collarbone / inside of shoulder. Right leg steps behind attackers right leg. A. As they step in to perform sweep takedown, right leg steps up into Kiba dachi, right hand goes under their arm and across their chest. Left arm grabs their other arm. Keep weight forward to prevent them taking you down and take them down. A. Finish punch to downed opponent.

Self Defence Counter 2 A. Slide in right middle punch. D. Right leg steps back into back leaning stance, Left outside block, Left leg slides at 45 degrees forward. Step forward with left leg into gliding stance, Reverse punch to head. A. Left palm cover head parry punch. D. Left upper cut to ribs. Right hook to solar plexus. Right hand moves up after punch to strike bicep / lock attackers arm. A. When the opponent moves to trap arm keep arm parallel to ground then lock to own chest, effecting lock and take down. A. Finish with strike to downed attacker.

Self Defence Counter 3 A. Slide in right middle punch. D. Left leg steps back into back leaning stance, Right outside block. Slide right leg 45 degrees toward attacker while executing Right back fist to face of attacker. A. Left palm blocks backfist. D. Left leg comes forward into gliding stance. Reverse punch to mid section. A. Left circular downward block against midsection punch. D. Left hand slides up after punch across chest Right arm goes over attackers left arm. Left leg steps behind attackers left leg. A. Before they can take your balance set your stance deeper with your left thigh against their left thing. At the same time your left arm reaches across chest and right arm traps their right arm. Effect take down. A. Finish with strike to downed attacker.

Self Defence Counter 4 A. Slide in right middle punch. D. Left leg steps back into back leaning stance, outside block with right hand left hand is up, so that attackers arm is guided into left arm by right. Trap attacker’s wrist or grab sleeve using tensho. Knife hand strike to Jaw as pulling in by arm. A. Left palm block knife hand strike. D. Right knee kick to mid section. A. Left hand block knee kick. D. After the Knee kick, slide head under attackers right arm in a ducking motion. A. As they lift your arm to move under it, bring right forarm down against their elbow pulling their right arm into your chest. A. Left palm heel strike to jaw pushing head to turn away. A. Left kick to back of knee with sole of foot, pushing knee to ground. A. Left leg steps in so knee is against back at same time left arm grabs around neck. A. Effect arm bar / choke and pull attacker back across knee.

Self Defence Counter 5 A. Slide in right middle punch. D. Steps back into modified Forward leaning stance, left forearm block to inside of attackers arm and right palm heel strike to nose simultaneously. A. Left palm parry strike to face. D. Right hand grabs Gi lapel / neck. Rear leg Knee to sternum as moving forward. A. Right hand block knee kick (left hand remains in contact with right arm). D. Circular descending elbow to head as foot returns to ground after knee. A. Right hand comes up to parry elbow up and across, left hand is still in contact with wrist to assist with control of opponents arm. Use this block to turn attacker and simultaneously step in and behind attacker. Left hand grabs chin and turns head as left hip shoves to centre of back to take away balance and take to ground. Strike to head.

Self Defence Counter 6 A. Slide in right middle punch. D. Step forward into forward leaning stance (right leg in front), loading up for right forearm block. Left forearm block to inside of attackers arm and right forearm / knife hand strike to inside of neck / jaw simultaneously. A. Left palm parry block knife hand strike to neck. D. Left hand circles to back of elbow / shoulder. Left leg steps forward move toward attackers shoulder and attempt to apply arm bar. A. Drop right elbow to defenders chest and hook right hand behind neck to prevent armbar. Right groin kick. Left hand pushes defenders right arm against their neck while your right arm tightens to lock it in place. A. Throw to ground and strike to downed opponent.

Self Defence Counter 7 A. Slide in right middle punch. D. Right leg steps back into back leaning stance, inside block. Trap attackers wrists and pull forward executing haito strike. A. Left hand covers face to block Haito. D. Apply pressure to back with left hand as right hand pushes on head or throat and take attacker to ground. Step across to apply armbar. A. As they step across to apply arm bar, grab right wrist of own arm with left hand. Turn hips so you are on your knees facing opponent. Use shoulder to move leg to other side of head. A. Left punch to opponent, pull right hand free, right hand punch to opponent.

Self Defence Counter 8 A. Slide in right middle punch. D. Shift to left as moving into back leaning stance, right leg in front, right inside block and punch towards ribs, followed by left knee to back of thigh. A. Bring right foot up high to block knee to thigh. You may need to rise up or slightly jump to effectively jam knee kick. A. Spin and elbow to opponents jaw with left elbow. A. Left arm extends across chest of opponent, right arm seizes opponents arm, take down to ground.

Self Defence Counter 9 A. Slide in right middle punch. D. Right leg steps back into back leaning stance, left hand right outside block, creating an initial parry of the attackers arm. A. As the opponent tries to circle move forward. D. Right hand circles outside arm, traps attacker wrist tensho. A. As they grab wrist step in closer and bend arm to prevent arm bar being applied, with your left hand hold their hand to your wrist. A. Make a fist with your right hand and in the same motion as you would cast a fishing line with apply pressure to side of opponents wrist. While doing this continue to step in to ensure their elbow is at 90 degrees.

Self Defence Counter 10 A. Slide in right middle punch. D. Left leg steps back into back leaning stance, right hand covers face, creating an initial parry of the attackers arm, left hand moves to outside and seizes wrist. Right elbow. A. Block elbow with left palm. D. Pull down on back of neck with right elbow, right knee towards face. A. Block knee with left hand push towards right side and trap leg with right hand. Left hand reaches up behind back and grabs opponents left shoulder. (There are two alternate ways to finish from here). • Lift leg pushing forward with hip to sweep opponent to ground. • Move opponent in a large circle pulling them off balance and taking them to the ground.