GROUND DEFENSES

Introduction

In the next few issues/months there will be a series of techniques on the ground. Obviously the first thing to be said is that from a self defense point of view you should avoid going down to the ground if at all possible. However, it can happen and so we should train for it. In the following techniques I will start with the defender (that's you) lying on the ground flat on his back (i.e. the prone position), but there will be a number of different attacking positions.

There are a couple of things to note about ground fighting (apart from the fact that gravity works in a different direction when you are flat on your back). The first is that just because you are facing a different direction does not mean that you can not use strikes and much of the good stuff you have learnt when standing on your feet. It sounds obvious but sometimes people forget it. But you do have to be aware that you are working at a much closer range and so there is less room. Secondly, size does matter. Strength, weight, body shape and the length of limbs will all change the way techniques need to be applied and so the best thing to do is train with lots of different people. However, you can still beat the unsuspecting big guy, so don't give up. The focus here will be on the core technique, so remember that additional strikes should be added.

1  Approaching From The Feet – Avoidance

When you flat on your back and your opponent is standing up and approaching from the direction of your feet, this is probably as safe as it gets. Obviously, you should try to get to your feet, but assuming you can't (say there is no time) you need to try and stop your opponent from being able to get to you. He will want to try and get passed your legs to be able to attack your body. The best way to stop him is to bend your legs and put the soles of your feet flat on the ground, keeping your opponent in sight between your legs (Figure 1). As he tries to move round to get passed your legs you need to shuffle round to keep him in view between your legs. This is best achieved by lifting your bum off the ground a little and stepping sideways spinning about your upper back (Figure 2).

Fig 1. Keep your opponent in sight

Fig 2. Follow' your opponent

This works well but remember that he will get frustrated and will kick at you legs (which may hurt if you are not fast enough to get out of the way, but will not do any serious damage, and is the lesser of two evils). If possible, block his kick by stamping the sole of your foot against his shin (Figure 3). Remember that you should keep you leg slightly bent, do not lock your knee. It is important that you keep him in sight between you legs and so when trying to avoid any kicks only move you legs and not you body, and do not be tempted to turn onto your side as it will make it easier for him to get passed your legs. Of course, there is nothing to stop you trying to kick him (Figure 4). You may need to shuffle forwards to execute the kick. Straight kicks to the knee or shin work best. Do not sacrifice you defensive position just to take a quick shot at him.

The most important thing to remember about this is that it is avoidance only and so, unless he gives up and walks off, this will only buy you some time.

Fig 3. Blocking a kick

Fig 4. Kicking your opponent

YDJ Graham Salt