Self-Defense: Four Ways to Escape a Wrist Grab

Introduction:

The purpose of this instructable is to teach people of all ages two amateur and two intermediate moves to escape a wrist grab. The information offered in this instructable is based off of what I have been taught, but feel free to incorporate what you have learned as well.

Please consult a doctor should you have concerns before attempting to perform any of these moves to prevent risks of injury. If you feel any discomfort with any of these steps, please do not attempt to perform them. Be cautious and use what you think will benefit you in the long run. Additionally, remember to scream and call for help when in a threatening situation. Screaming "FIRE" will easily grab the attention of people in the area as opposed to yelling "help" or "rape."

Below, you will find four methods, "One Hand on One Wrist," "Two Hands on One Wrist," "One Hand on One Wrist with Knee Kick," and "Two Hands on One Wrist with Side Knee Kick." Each method is labeled by a step (step 2, 3, 4, and 5). Each step has a numerical order below it that explains how to perform the method. Each method also has a link to a demonstration video and screen shots that help break down the moves.

Step 1: Gather Materials

1. Comfortable clothing that is easy to move in such as sweatpants, t-shirts, yoga pants, etc.

2. Sneakers or work out shoes.

3. If you have long hair, please make sure your hair is tied up or back so that it is not in your face.

4. A partner is helpful but not required.

Step 2: One Hand on One Wrist

One Hand on One Wrist Demonstration Video

1. Take a step back to gain stability, and then relax your wrist. The tighter your wrist the harder it is to turn your wrist.

2. Rotate your wrist towards attacker's thumb.

3. Once the grip is loosened, retract your hand to prevent it from being grabbed again.

Step 3: Two Hands on One Wrist

Two Hands on One Wrist Demonstration Video

1. Take a step back to gain stability, and then relax your wrist. The tighter your wrist the harder it is to turn your wrist.

2. Take your free arm and weave it through the attacker’s wrists in an over/under formation. This stops their movement.

3. Rotate your captured wrist toward the attacker’s thumb.

4. Use your strength to pull both hands from attacker's grasp.

Step 4: One Hand on One Wrist With Knee Kick

One Hand on One Wrist with Knee Kick Demonstration Video

1. Take a step back to gain stability, and then relax your wrist. The tighter your wrist the harder it is to turn your wrist.

2. Rotate your wrist toward the attacker's thumb.

3. Pull your wrist from the attacker's grasp and then grab the attacker’s wrist.

4. Use your free hand to grab the back of the attacker's neck, firmly cupping where the top of the neck meets the head.

5. Take your free leg and curl it into a kick.

6. Aim for the attacker’s chest or head if you have awesome flexibility.

Step 5: Two Hands on One Wrist With Side Knee Kick

Two Hands on One Wrist with Side Knee Kick Demonstration Video

1. Take a step back to gain stability, and then relax your wrist. The tighter your wrist the harder it is to turn your wrist.

2. Use your free hand to intertwine through the attacker's arms in an under/over formation. This stops their movement.

3. Rotate your captured wrist toward the attacker's thumb.

4. Pull your wrist from the attacker's grasp and then grab the attacker’s wrist.

5. Use your other hand to grab under the attacker's shoulder, close to their armpit.

6. Pull the attacker's gripped wrist across your body while guiding the attacker from their armpit.

7. Step slightly out of the way to create space for your knee.

6. Use the leg that's closest to where the attacker is and knee kick to the body or higher.

Step 6: Practice!!!

Congratulations! You now know two amateur and two intermediate ways to escape a wrist grab. Remember to practice, practice, practice! And please feel free to incorporate these methods as you see fit!