Ladies learn valuable self-defence skills

STORY AND PHOTOS BY MARIA GIRGENTI

LAST December, Master Chrys Tait from Tait’s Family Martial Arts, Innisfail, passed on her broad knowledge and taught valuable skills at a free women’s self-defence class at Innisfail East State School Multipurpose Hall.

Instructor Master Tait has a wealth of experience and holds qualifications as a 7th Dan Jidokwan, 5th Dan Bo Moohakkwan Hapkido, 4th Dan Kukkiwon Taekwondo, 4th Dan Korean Hapkido Fed and 1st Dan Arnis de Mano.

Before the practical skills on the mat, Tait discussed with the group apparent ways to keep themselves safe at home using security systems, security screens on windows/doors, dogs as a deterrent, a safe for keys, and exterior safety lights. They learned their best defence mechanisms included their legs to run, voice to scream, using their own bodies as weapons (hands, knees, elbows, and feet), and in the event of unexpected and dangerous situations aiming for the centre line instead of the expected groin area.

Tait explained that whilst it is tempting, they should avoid using weapons such as knives; however, an umbrella could be used in a situation.

Throughout the class, Master Tait demonstrated techniques such as holding a fist and Crav Maga (striking against a shield using punches, elbows, and knees).

They also learned how to release themselves using wrist grabs, neck grabs (using any bang too gi techniques), front and back hair grabs, front and back choking, defence whilst sitting, two hand grabs, inside wrist hitting, as well as front and side avoiding/blocking techniques.

Master Tait is running another free ladies’ self-defence class on Saturday, February 18, from 9.30 am - 11.00 am at Innisfail East State School Multipurpose Hall, and all ladies are welcome to attend.

Tait’s Family Martial Arts also run lessons in Taekwondo, Hapkido and Arnis De Mano, suitable for all ages/ levels, and to find out more information, and please send a message via their Facebook page.