Self-defense workshops for women are gaining ground. With Anaïs Guertin-Lacroix
As concerns about personal safety grow, more and more women are turning to self-defense workshops to regain control over their bodies and their reactions to danger.
Anaïs Guertin-Lacroix recently participated in one of these workshops, led by George Manoli, a martial arts expert for over 35 years and a personal protection trainer.
Why workshops dedicated to women?
Some high schools even make self-defense classes mandatory for their students. And for good reason: 80% of assaults against women end on the ground. The goal of these training sessions is to prevent this situation from happening through simple, instinctive, and accessible techniques.
Practical Self-Defense: Concrete Action, No Choreography
Unlike a traditional martial art, so-called “practical” self-defense doesn’t require perfect movements or fluid choreography. What matters is effectiveness. You learn to react quickly, make yourself heard, and destabilize the attacker.
Here are the basic steps of the “SU VIZ DE COMBAT” method, learned during the workshop:
1. Say NO, loud and clear
Set your limits immediately. A loud voice can be enough to discourage some attackers.
2. Target the face and lower body
Strike the nose with your palm, or use an “ice pick” (a sharp blow with your fist) to the face. Then, strike the lower part of the belt with your knee. Alternating the target areas destabilizes the attacker.
3. Push and Shout
While hitting, push the attacker and continue shouting. The goal: to force him back away.
4. Flee
Protect your face, scan the surrounding area, and run away.
What if the attack occurs against a wall?
In this situation, the basic principles remain valid: hitting the face and lower body. But a specific tactic is taught: sticking to the attacker, as if in a hug, which limits his movement. It is even suggested to bite him on the neck before breaking free and striking again to escape.
Learn to set your limits even before contact is made.
The workshop goes beyond simple physical technique: it also teaches how to identify a dangerous situation. Attitude is essential: standing straight, saying “NO” in a firm voice, and making clear gestures (such as extending your arms to create a visual barrier) can all be enough to ward off a potential attacker. The key: don’t try to be polite, but rather be clear and firm.
A space for learning and sometimes emotional release
Each workshop includes up to 20 simulations, with the aim of making the gestures automatic. But beyond the physical aspect, these classes are a true form of therapy for many women. It’s not uncommon to attend with a friend because certain emotions or memories can resurface. In any case, you leave feeling stronger, more confident, and better prepared.