I teach that if you are being 'interviewed' by an aggressor that the assertive posture or position is best. What I mean by 'the interview' are the threats, questions or 'woofing' which usually preceed the physical attack. Law enforcement and even criminals with a history of assaults will all tell you that most attacks don't start off by someone just jumping out from behind a car, alleyway or bush. No, in fact most physical attacks start off with some type of verbal assault which, in the terms reality and scenario-based personal defense instructors, is affectionately called 'the interview'. The reason for this is most criminals and bullies want to know
what they are facing before getting down to business. They want to know how you react so that can decide whether you are an easy victim or someone who may put up a real fight. Ignoring these threats, insults or questions can open the door for an immediate physical attack.
Being of a military background, I've created an acronym called N. A. P. P. which stands for Non-Aggressive Protective Posture (TM) and now integrate the term and method into every class I teach for both youth and adults. This posture serves as a deceptive middle ground between passive and aggressive that creates an almost unfair advantage for you against the aggressor. If done properly, it lets the attacker know that you don't want any trouble and that you will let him safe face (give him an easy way out).
As a rule this is the best way to handle the interview. However if the attack has started or is certainly evident, a position of feigned compliance or the N.A.P.P. might be better. Here is a mock scenario of how effective this works. Lets suppose someone starts mouthing off at distance greater than two arms length threatening to 'beat you to a pulp' if you don't meet a certain demand (give him your money, come with him, give him your car keys, etc.) First and foremost, you have a decision to comply or resist - money can be replaced and so can a car, but you cannot. If he encroaches into your space you want to bring your hands up but in a way that shows compliance. So your hands are higher than his, open with palms out and shaking them gently from side to side. Your body language is congruous with your words of 'please, please don't hurt me'. This action has the effect of giving your attacker power (false confidence) as he thinks you are terrified and will do whatever he wants. Now, your hands are up and in a position to strike (or block if he releases one of his hands to hit you). This N.A.P.P. position gives you a tactical advantage because now you can surprise your attacker with quick palm strikes to the face or eye strikes. Once you have started striking him you will continue striking until the threat is non existent. (Remember you have a legal responsibility to stop once the threat is neutralized!)
Want more information about the N.A.P.P. ? Click this link on an article I wrote in 2001.
The next FAST Defense class is January 27th. Click this link for more information about FAST Defense!
Stay Safe!
Coach Arnold
Tags:
fast defense, n.a.p.p.
Posted at: 05:26 PM | Add Comment
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