Top 5 Defense Moves Everyone Should Know

Top 5 Self-Defense Moves Everyone Should Know

Published: February 20, 2025 | By Krav Maga Detroit

Self-defense isn’t just for martial artists—it’s a life skill everyone should have. At Krav Maga Detroit, we’ve been teaching practical, real-world techniques to Troy, MI residents since 2005. Led by 3rd Dan Black Belt Pawel Cichowlas, our classes boil down complex moves into simple, effective actions anyone can learn. Here are the top 5 self-defense moves you should master to stay safe!

1. Palm Strike to the Nose

• Why It Works: A quick, upward strike with your palm can disorient an attacker, giving you time to escape. It’s less risky than a punch and uses your body’s natural power.

• How to Do It:

  1. Face your target with feet shoulder-width apart.

  2. Drive the heel of your palm upward toward the nose, keeping your fingers back.

  3. Follow through with your hips for max force.

• Pro Tip: Aim slightly above the upper lip for a stunning effect. Want to perfect it? Join us at Krav Maga Detroit for hands-on training!

2. Elbow Strike

• Why It Works: The elbow is one of your hardest weapons and works in close quarters—perfect if someone grabs you.

• How to Do It:

  1. Pull your arm back, bending at the elbow.

  2. Swing it forward or sideways, aiming for the jaw, temple, or ribs.

  3. Keep your core tight to amplify the blow.

• Pro Tip: Practice the motion slowly first. Our instructors in Troy, MI can show you how—contact us to start.

3. Knee to the Groin

• Why It Works: Simple and devastating, this move targets a universal weak spot, dropping most attackers instantly.

• How to Do It:

  1. Step in close (if grabbed, use their grip to pull them toward you).

  2. Lift your knee fast and hard into the groin area.

  3. Push away and run.

• Pro Tip: Speed beats precision here. Learn this and more in our self-defense classes.

4. Wrist Escape

• Why It Works: If someone grabs your wrist, this move breaks their hold without needing brute strength.

• How to Do It:

  1. Rotate your wrist so your thumb aligns with the gap between their thumb and fingers (the weak point).

  2. Pull your arm back sharply toward that gap.

  3. Step away once free.

• Pro Tip: Timing is key—practice makes it second nature. Check out our instructors’ tips from Pawel and Lisa Cichowlas.

5. Front Kick to the Knee

• Why It Works: A low, fast kick can stop an advancing attacker without exposing you to counterattacks.

• How to Do It:

  1. Lift your knee toward your chest (like a high step).

  2. Snap your foot forward, striking with the ball of your foot to their knee or shin.

  3. Pull back quickly to stay balanced.

• Pro Tip: Don’t aim too high—keep it low and controlled. Master this at Krav Maga Detroit with a free trial class!

Why These Moves Matter

These techniques are rooted in Krav Maga, a system built for real-world survival—not fancy choreography. They’re simple enough for beginners yet powerful enough to save lives. At Krav Maga Detroit, we’ve seen students of all ages transform fear into confidence with these skills.

Get Started Today

Ready to learn these moves from the pros? Since 2005, Pawel and Lisa Cichowlas have trained Troy, MI locals to protect themselves with Krav Maga’s proven methods. Visit kravmagadetroit.com for a free trial or contact us to ask about classes. We have Krav Maga classes for adults & kids! Don’t wait—safety starts with you!