How to Defend Against a Single Wrist Grab

When an attacker grabs your wrist, you can use the following techniques to escape.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Martial Arts Supplies
• Martial Arts Uniforms
• Martial Arts Videos

Use Leverage

1. When an attacker grabs your wrist with one hand, grab your trapped hand with your free hand.
2. Pull your hands up quickly, towards your chest.
3. Twist your torso away from the attacker's arm to avoid injury.
4. Run away.

Use a Kick and Use a Joint Lock

5. Use a kick. When an attacker grabs your wrist, lean backwards away from the attacker.
6. Bend your knee and lift your leg toward your chest.
7. Deliver a kick with the heel of your foot to whichever ribs are exposed.
8. If the attacker is taller than you or you cannot strike the ribs, kick to the front of the attacker's knee.
9. Run away.
10. Use a joint lock. Turn quickly so that your back faces the attacker.
11. Pull the attacker's arm over your shoulder with his or her palm facing upward.
12. With the attacker's elbow on your shoulder, pull down. The attacker is now in a painful joint lock, unable to move. You are in control.
13. Push the attacker away and escape.

When You Can't Pull Free

14. Turn your confined hand palm up and grasp the attacker's forearm.
15. Cover the attacker's hand with your free hand.
16. Twist your confined hand palm down, straightening ("locking") the attacker's elbow and arm out.
17. Force the attacker to the ground by exerting downward pressure on his or her wrist and/or forearm.
18. Run away.

Tips & Warnings

• Practice your kicking with your heel to build speed and power.
• Move quickly since it can be very dangerous to turn your back on an attacker.
• Don't use the kick technique unless you intend to harm the attacker.
• Joint locks will cause injury if applied with too much pressure. Be careful when practicing with a partner.
• Practice with a partner to build mastery.
• Be careful not to apply too much pressure while practicing.
• Practicing the martial arts is an inherently dangerous activity that can result in serious injury or death. We recommend that you seek proper training and equipment before attempting this activity.