It is easy to get your kicks blocked or even have your ankle or foot grabbed midway as shown in the picture. As with any other self-defense technique, it is crucial to release yourself from a grip as quickly as possible. Here is how to do it.
1. First bend the foot or leg that the opponent has a hold on and then extend that same leg full length with enough power to either loosen the opponent’s grip or free your leg. If the opponent still has hold of your foot, try the following technique.
2. Place both palms on the ground.
3. Quickly curl your body, head first, to roll on to the ground as shown. The rotation will loosen the opponent’s hold on your foot, thus giving you the opportunity to escape after being freed.
People in these cases will try to use their legs and feet while standing to escape the situation. However, restricted legs will prevent you from aggressively breaking free from a firm grip. Using your whole body by rolling on the ground with enough force to free yourself from the opponent’s grip is the key point of this self-defense technique. Try using a mattress when practicing and always be very careful.
By Seo Gyo-sun (selfdefense777@gmail.com)
Seo Gyo-sun, an internationally certified Taekwondo Grand Master, judge and coach, holds a B.A. in taekwondo from Kyung Hee University. ― Ed.
koreaherald@heraldcorp.com
