In this article, we will be discussing some great pressure point techniques you can use to escape your attacker when he has you held upfront sideways so he can sweep you off your feet and on to the ground. When in a fight, you never know where the next attack is coming from. You need to be alert and prepared for anything and everything. When your attacker has a hold on you from the side, it becomes much easier for him to trip you, so he can pin you to the floor.

If you read the previous post, you know that being pinned to the floor is one of the most vulnerable positions to be in. And you also know of the techniques that can help you fight your way out of such situations. But for now, let’s look at the most effective moves to handle this threat while we are still upright.

First and most importantly, do not PANIC! Keep your breathing steady, and conserve your energy for the actual fight. Make sure you stay on the stronger side of the attacker. Next, use the mid bone of the thumb or the thumb to push into the nerve point of the upper jaw. At the same time use your other hand to hold him at his shoulder or the back of his head. Press as hard as you can!

Together, the pressure created on both these sensitive areas will inflict enough pain to force your attacker to lose control and bring him down to the ground. Take this chance to follow up with a strong palm strike to the eardrum or stomp his face with your foot. This should give you the split-second you need to flee the scene and get yourself some help.

Make sure you practise these moves daily with a willing partner or in front of a mirror, so you don’t panic and/or freeze when it happens in real life. If you enjoyed reading about these techniques in self-defence, do check out our other blogs. Do share these blogs with friends and family, or with anyone who you think will find the information useful.