Last Updated on March 30, 2022 by Ellen Christian
See how these simple self-defense skills can help. As women all over the country are preparing to head to shopping centers to find the perfect swim suit for all their upcoming Spring and Summer plans. It is crucial to acknowledge that leaving malls and shopping centers nonchalant with hands full of bags can be dangerous if the shopper is not aware of the surroundings. Thank you to Krav Magna for sharing these tips today.
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Simple Self-Defense Skills
Every year around 300,000 women are raped and over half of these crimes go unreported. It is important for women know how to protect themselves from these, and all, types of crimes. As extreme as this sound, Krav Maga Worldwide, a leading self-defense organization is informing shoppers how they can stay safe with some basic self-defense tips. I hope that these simple self-defense skills help you stay safe.
1. Stay aware of your surroundings by scanning your environment.
No matter how busy you are, do not allow your mind to wander. It might seem important in the moment to be making a to-do list in your head, but if you are worrying if you will have time to stop at the specialty food store on your way home to pick up appetizers for tomorrow’s party you might not notice someone following you to your vehicle.
2. Park in well lit areas – even if it means that you have to walk a bit further.
It is best to avoid shopping after the sun has gone down, but if you must try to bring a friend or family member along with you. When you park, avoid parking next to vans, trucks with camper shells, or cars with tinted windows. You want to keep your car as visible to as many people as possible and as such you should also avoid parking next to tall shrubs or plants that could block views of your vehicle.
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3. Don’t wear your purse so that the strap crosses your body.
Wearing a purse strap across your body makes you more connected to your bag. If someone tries to steal your purse, you will be pulled with the strap. You can become unbalanced and put into a vulnerable position or you could end up in a physical altercation with the assailant. If your purse is draped on one shoulder you can easily let go of it.
4. Dress casually and comfortably.
The mall during holiday shopping season is not the time to make a fashion statement. It is better to leave the high heels and flashy statement-making pieces at home. Jeans and sneakers will help you blend in and if needed enable you to make a quick getaway. Also, avoid wearing large and expensive looking jewelry that can draw additional attention to you.
5. Don’t hesitate to ask a security guard to walk you to your car.
If you are shopping at night and the crowds at the mall have thinned out for the day, taking an extra step to stay safe is always a good idea. Or, plan ahead and pay the few extra dollars to valet park your car so you do not have to walk to it alone with arms full of bags.
About Krav Maga Worldwide
Founded in 1997 to promote Krav Maga throughout the United States and around the world, Krav Maga Worldwide trains and certifies instructors and licenses over 150 authorized Krav Maga Worldwide training centers in the United States, Canada, Japan, Mexico, South America, and Europe, as well as over 800 law enforcement agencies and military units. Krav Maga offers the highest caliber of instruction to thousands of people, supporting the company’s core commitment to improving and saving lives. Krav Maga Worldwide continues to develop, promote and implement self-defense and fitness programs. For additional information, visit: www.kravmaga.com.
These self defense techniques for beginners will help you stay safe on your next shopping trip.
Ellen believes you can feel beautiful at any age and size. She shares healthy beauty and fashion information geared toward women over 40. She is a direct sales rep for several fashion and beauty businesses.
I am hypervigilant at all times. I’ve watched enough Criminal Minds episodes!!! I didn’t know the tip about the purse though.
It’s always best to be super aware!
My husband always tries to get me to put the strap of my purse across my body. Just wait til I tell him that that is a bad idea. He is going to be so red faced. Anyway, you have some great tips here.
Thanks, Dawn!
Part of our senior year of high school coursework included a self-defense class. It was really eye-opening to dangers I had never considered. It’s been a while ( a long while) since that class, so this refresher was important.
That’s a great idea!
These are super awesome tips!! I’ve worked some night jobs cleaning buildings, and let me tell you I was almost too hyper aware I would scare myself. Shopping is one of my least favorite things in the world – shopping at night is even worse.
I’ve always thought to cross the purse over my body so it couldn’t be stolen, but this makes more sense.
Glad to help, Adelina!
Ladies, when your in the parking lot put your phone away, scan your surroundings and walk like a badass female warrior! They bad guys look for a vulnerable easy target. Don’t be that person.
Great advice!
These tips are great & the self defense film is really good & informative.. I never shop at night, and even when shopping during the day I go with family. There is definitely safety in numbers.
That’s very true!
It’s so important to always be aware of your surroundings. I always try to keep my keys in my hands so I have some sort of defense mechanism.
That’s a great idea!
great tips! I shop in the daytime and i have a crossbody bag
Shopping during the day is always a good idea!
I know better than to go shopping or driving for that matter, when I’m exhausted and just plain tired and possibly not as vigilant. I much prefer online shopping these days, but will go in person for that bargain. For example, I trekked to Kohl’s yesterday since they had patriotic tee shirts for $3.99. I purchased my tee and on I went to some other errands. I’m just not a looker like I used to be. I buy what’s on my list and am happy to be on my way! I didn’t know about the cross body strap danger either. I like waist packs if I can get away with it.
It’s always important to be aware!