Half-moon kicks, eye jabs, and terms like "the elbows are fantastic," "get him in the balls" and the "importance of avoidance" were just a few of the issues stressed in the Collins Coffeehouse Monday night. There, the IU Men's Coalition held a self-defense seminar as part of the V-Day Campaign, an ongoing effort to raise awareness and funds to curb violence against women.
"We're trying to reduce attacks on women and have them walk confidently," IU Self Defense Club President Paul McCarthy said on behalf of IU Men's Coalition, of which he is a member.
The seminar, led by Division of Recreational Sports self-defense teacher and IU Self Defense Club, taught excited students different moves for particular situations as well as key concepts for overall protection -- not to mention a little common sense.
"The key is avoidance," McCarthy started during the seminar. "If you're thinking of going down a dark alley at night, don't go down the dark alley."
He stressed the importance of using common sense and avoiding bad situations, including not putting purses or bags across shoulders, which gives a violator the perfect way to choke a victim. Also, activities such as talking on the phone or listening to music could take away from awareness -- a main tool of avoidance.
The skills taught were introductory, but can also prove to be effective, McCarthy said. Basic kicks, punches, eye jabs and fighting stances were practiced by two-person teams throughout the night. McCarthy showed some of the best places to hit, such as the nose, which makes an attacker's eyes water, ensuring an easier escape.
