I am Sundar J.

M. Brown with Joe Diamond's Mixed Martial Arts Academy in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This video discusses practical self defense and in this segment, we are going to discuss some of the principles of practical self defense. In order to aptly defend ourselves, we should understand what self defense is. Self defense essentially means avoiding any kind of confrontation in the first place. If at all possible, do not fight. There maybe times however, when an attacker aggresses against us so forcefully that we are forced to defend ourselves or our lives or the bodies or lives of our loved ones. In these instances, this video will help you understand what to do. Now, coming back to the principles of practical self defense, self defense really revolves around nothing more than common sense. Common sense means being aware of our surroundings and acting practically at all times. We do what feels right and if something does not feel right, we should not do it. If there is a known dangerous area in a city or town for example, it is best to avoid traveling through that area altogether. If we must travel through it, the most practical or commonsensical way of dealing with that will be to travel with a group during daylight. If we must travel at night, perhaps we can use our cell phones so that in the event of an emergency, you can call 911. Another suggestion would be to simply tell others where you are going to be. The best common sense solution is to just listen to your instincts, to listen to your gut. More people are hurt or killed every year because they refuse to listen to their conscience; that little voice inside their head that tells them right for wrong. If you feel uncomfortable in a situation or you feel uncomfortable dealing with another person, even if that uncomfortability is very, very slight; immediately extract yourself from the situation. Do not worry about being a hero; do not worry about offending anybody, the primary goal is to protect yourself. Trust your instincts. Do not be a casualty. Remember, self defense only happens when you are being aggressed against. Now, if this is the scenario that you find yourself in, this video will help you understand how you can move forward in a practical way to defend yourself physically against an attacker. In the next clip, we are going to begin by defending ourselves against the simple front grab.