Recent years have witnessed numerous disturbing reports of a growing phenomena in the United States known as "the knockout game." This “game” involves punching people with the aim of knocking them unconscious. In most cases, the victims are surprised or simply don't see the assault coming. After all, who expects to get punched during the course of an average day?
“Knockout” can happen when you are walking by yourself or in public places with numerous witnesses. Reports of such assaults on busy sidewalks, subway platforms, in shopping malls etc... are not uncommon.
Such attacks are extremely dangerous. The initial impact and the subsequent fall - especially if your head hits a hard surface -can inflict serious damage or even death.
Similar attacks, “sucker punches”, have always been around but the difference here is that the assaults have been formalized into a game, a competition. Many assaults have been recorded then distributed - a morbid form of entertainment.
There are some general habits to blend into your life to minimize your vulnerability to such attacks. Of course, being aware of your surroundings is important. Self defense training, particularly training that involves defending from various angles and directions, can be a life saving investment.
We don’t want you to be paranoid, to walk with your head on a swivel. Rather we want you to be aware, to prevent, to defend, to get home safe.
Be safe,
Christopher Gagne
Lead Instructor, International Krav Maga Federation, Toronto
No comments:
Post a Comment