Hi girls, just to chime in again, I think it ought to be pointed out that simply using a self-defense move to break a hold, like someone bearhugging you from behind, or something, probably isn't going to be sufficient to halt an attack. Whoever's assaulting you isn't going to tip their hat and say, "Whoops, sorry, my mistake." and walk away, in fact it will probably piss them off.
As Mandy pointed out in her link, at least on some of the moves, the breakhold should be followed by some incapacitating followup. A heel stomp to their instep, a blow to the groin, an eye gouge, something that will give them something else to think about while you are running like hell and screaming for help. (Better to scream "FIRE", btw, it will draw more attention.) Please don't misunderstand me, I'm not saying you should try to put someone in the hospital or seriously hurt them for no reason, but we are talking serious situations where your life could very well be in danger. Better them than you.
While I'm rattling on, another thing to remember is that you may be facing more than one assailant and they may be armed with anything from edged weapons to firearms. Not many have the abilities, skills and training to face multiple attackers. FWIW, I think everyone should take some sort of formal martial arts from a trained and certified instructor or at least a basic self-defense class. It doesn't have to be about maiming someone, either, there are many martial arts that emphasize using an opponents moves and momentum against them, aikido is one that comes first to mind. Of course it requires time, effort, discipline, and oh, money. But it is worth it.
Here's praying that none of us ever have to face a situation in which we are physically being assaulted by someone who intends serious harm. May the Goddess watch over us all and keep us safe. Thank you once again, Mandy, for your post.
Hugs...Joni Mari
