The Take Down

When danger comes upon most people they have that fight or flight mechanism, I however, have always had that fall down to the ground and cover your head mechanism. Being the only girl in my family has helped me practice this over and over as my brothers would scare me. Because of this when it came time to sign up for our annual winter class, my friend and I chose self defense. At first, class was pretty easy, blocks, kicks, strikes, identifying target points and getting away from grabs. Good things to remember, not to awkward to do. However, a few classes into the semester we all watched in wonder as our instructor put down mats and then strapped on a huge chest pad, leg and foot pads, and then put on a head guard with a clear visor. "Is he bringing in someone to fight with and show us what to do?" we wondered. Then he called each of us back, one at a time, for the take down. Imagine walking toward imminent danger, while eight other people are watching your every move. You can hear the instructor's voice as you get closer whispering, "You're just walking along minding your own business. . . . . . " and then bam, he grabs you, and you have to use what you have learned to get away from him. Some of you are probably thinking he isn't really that tough, and that he probably lets you get away. Speaking as a young student who hesitated slightly, and then was picked up, thrown to the ground and pinned, I would beg to differ. Pretty much you have to give it your all, or you're a goner. However, knowing that he isn't easing up on you, makes it even more sweet when you get away, and I must say while it scares me to death, I've thrown him twice and there is no better feeling then that.
The most dramatic moment of class came last week as my friend was going to the mats for the take down. We were all watching intently ready to yell suggestions, or encouragement. However, we were soon screaming in terror as our instructor pulled out a gun. Now obviously, it wasn't real, but our instructor is a man of few words and the gun came out of nowhere. Next he took out his fake knife, and somehow I was the lucky victim. (My weak spot and a knife, not a good mixture.) However, it was a really good learning experience. This class has taught me how not to be a victim, and the simple, most effective ways to get out of bad situations. I highly recommend taking a class like this to everyone. Sadly, this week is the last class and somehow I find myself in a nasty ankle brace (slight running accident). However, I figure hurt people get attacked, so maybe I'll still go and just give him a good eye poking.