BODY: ULTIMATE

LETHAL WEAPON

KEITH D. YATES
6TH DEGREE BLACK BELT
YOUR —
ee ULTI MATE
LETHAL WEAPON
XOUR
=———— ULTIMATE
LETHAL WEAPON

KEITH D. YATES
6TH DEGREE BLACK BELT

PALADIN PRESS
BOULDER, COLORADO
Your Body—the Ultimate Lethal Weapon
by Keith D. Yates
Copyright © 1987 by Keith D. Yates

ISBN 0-87364-438-7
Printed in the United States of America

Published by Paladin Press, a division of

Paladin Enterprises, Inc., P.O. Box 1307,
Boulder, Colorado 80306, USA.
(303) 443-7250

Direct inquiries and/or orders to the above address.

All rights reserved, Except for use in a review, no

portion of this book may be reproduced in any form
without the express written permission of the publisher.

Neither the author nor the publisher assumes

any responsibility for the use or misuse of
information contained in this book.
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 —>———.

About th
Author
—S—s af

Keith D. Yates is recognized as one of the nation’s leading

authorities on the martial arts. He has written over twenty-
five magazine articles for numerous publications, including
Sports and Fitness, Black Belt magazine, Inside Karate and
Karate Illustrated. He contributed the chapter on karate for
Prentice Hall’s sixth edition of The Physical Education Hand-
book, a widely used text in colleges and universities. His first
book, The Complete Book of Taekwon Do Forms, is considered
a classic reference text. His second book, Warrior Secrets:
A Handbook of the Martial Arts, has been honored by becom-
ing assigned reading in several college martial arts courses.
He has also written Just for Kicks: The Art of Fighting with
Your Feet. His fourth book, just released, is titled simply
Korean Karate which he co-authored with a former United
States Olympic coach. Mr. Yates is currently working on
additional books on the subjects of self-defense, stick fighting,
and one-step sparring techniques.
Starting his Tae Kwon Do (Korean karate) training in 1965
at the age of fourteen, Mr. Yates became one of the youngest
black belts in the country when he earned his rank at seven-
teen from former world champion Allen R. Steen, ‘“The
Father of Texas Karate.”’ After a successful tournament career
vi
a
The Ultimate Lethal Weapon vii

(winning the state championship in 1971), he embarked on

a study of other martial arts. He has trained in several styles,
earning a 1st degree black belt in Japanese Ju-Jitsu and a 2nd
degree belt in Okinawan Kobudo (the art of ancient orien-
tal weapons.)
He began the first college “karate for credit” program in
the Southwest in 1972 at Southern Methodist University,
where he still serves as an adjunct professor. Recognized as
an otitstanding instructor and innovator, he is in constant
demand as a seminar leader and guest teacher. He was also
recently voted into the Third Edition of Who’s Who in
American Martial Arts. Mr. Yates is currently one of the
highest ranking American-born masters in the art of Tae
Kwon Do, holding a 6th degree black belt.
He is the founder and president of the Southwest Tae Kwon
Do Association, an organization overseeing independent
karate clubs at several YMCAs, recreation centers, and col-
leges. The STA teaches the “American Chung Do Kwan
Style’ of Korean Karate, a system founded by Mr. Yates. It
is based on the traditional Korean style but with added
emphasis from a number of different martial systems.
In 1986, the Texas Black Belt Commission was organized
by Keith Yates. At the initial meeting, he was elected the first
Chairman of the Board of Directors. This association is
unique among martial arts organizations because it repre-
sents several different schools and styles. The TBBC has
already gained national recognition from several major mar-
tial arts publications and is fast becoming the recognized
regional accrediting organization for North Texas martial arts
instructors.
Mr. Yates is currently teaching at the Richardson YMCA
and at Southern Methodist University. For futher informa-
tion on classes or for seminar information, please contact
the Southwest Tae Kwon Do Association at 3402 Ridgemoor,
Garland, TX 75042.
Acknowledgments
Dedicated to my students who have helped me
refine my teaching skills.

Photography by Arnold Howard, Dave Edmondson,

Bob Woerner, and Toby Threadgill

Models: Jennifer Branch, Bryan Robbins, Bruce Gay,

Bob Woerner, Keith Yates

vill
SSSSSC—_—S0CSSSS05009 5225S >—S9.—==

Introduction SSS —__—_—_s

In the time it will take you to read this introduction, several

muggings and beatings will occur and at least one rape will
have taken place in the United States. Amazingly, one U.S.
household in every five has been hit by crime in the last
twelve months, with either property stolen or a member of
the household a victim of violent assault. Contrary to what
someone might say, attacks on you or your loved ones can
occur anywhere and at anytime.
The incidence of crime is perhaps one reason the number
of martial arts schools in this country has more than tripled
in the last decade. Hundreds of thousands of men, women,
young, and old are studying karate, tae kwon do, judo, and
the like. These once-secret oriental disciplines are a study
in personal life-saving techniques to be sure, but many
students find their training to be a fun sporting activity and
a healthy hobby as well. It is a mentally stimulating challenge
and an effective means of physical and emotional discipline.
Most people, however, take to the mat initially out of a
desire to learn how to protect themselves. The purpose of
this book is to introduce you to a number of ways to defend
yourself when you must do so. Of course, no written source

ix
x Your Body

can take the place of a reputable instructor; if you read

carefully and study each technique, though, you will certainly
begin to understand what you can effectively do should you
find yourself in that ‘“‘once in a lifetime’ situation.
The techniques shown here may seem so simple that you
think you can remember them without too much practice.
Resist the temptation to skim over them, and spend some
time becoming familiar with each. Some are so easy that
you can almost master them just by simple study while others
require repetitious practice over a period of several weeks
so the skills will become automatic enough to be really useful
if you ever need them.
This is one reason I recommend you attend actual karate
or tae kwon do school. Most of us don’t have the discipline
to learn or practice something on our own. You don’t have
to sign up for a lifetime ‘‘Black Belt” course. A four- to six-
month course should be enough to develop your basic habits
of self-defense.
People always ask me what art to take up for self-defense
purposes. Although the art itself is less important than the
instructor, I’ll give you a brief rundown of the differences
between the various arts styles.
Basically, the arts can be divided into grappling and strik-
ing styles. Grappling arts are much like Western wrestling;
throwing styles such as judo and aikido would be among
the arts that fall into this category. Striking arts are more
like boxing with the addition of kicks; kung fu, karate, and
tae kwon do are all considered striking styles. Jujutsu falls
somewhere in between these two categories, containing both
throws and strikes.
So, which is better? After studying several different styles
for many years, I have seen that the grappling arts gener-
ally take longer to learn than do striking styles. It just makes
sense that it will take longer to learn how to throw a two-
hundred-pound attacker over your shoulder than to kick him
in the kneecap. For that reason, you are probably better off
seeking out a karate, kung fu, or tae kwon do school first.
However, I'd certainly point out that if there is a judo or
aikido school in your neighborhood, you should go check
 The Ultimate Lethal Weapon xi

it out and talk to the instructor to see if he or she will be

willing to give you a brief course containing some effective
self-defense techniques. In fact, no matter what style you may
be interested in, be sure to check out the instructor to deter-
mine how easily you can work with him or her.
Checking out the instructor and school becomes even more
important when you consider that there are no standards
for martial arts schools in this country. Any green belt with
threé months of lessons can buy himself a black belt and
put an ad in the yellow pages proclaiming himself a “master”
and former world champion. The only way you can verify
someone’s ability is to talk to them and observe them
firsthand.
But getting back to the purpose of this book, I encourage
you to read and reread each chapter and try to visualize
how the techniques can be applied to a number of different
situations.
If you have a partner to practice with, all the better. Actu-
ally experiencing the feel of hands around your throat or
having your arm twisted behind you is vital so that you won't
be caught off guard should a mugger really attack you. You
might even try rigging up a punching bag from an old duf-
fel bag stuffed with old sheets or rags to actually get the “feel”
of punching something with solid force.
Once you get ready to practice, it is a good idea to warm
up with a few jumping jacks and toe touches. Such a warm-
up can prevent muscle pulls and is good for getting you in
better physical condition. After all, if you are in shape, it is
easier to perform the best self-defense technique of all,
running away!
You may have heard the stories about a karate expert hav-
ing to warn a person three times before he can defend
himself or that he has to register his hands or feet as lethal
weapons. These are mere myths resulting from some over-
active imaginations. You are within your rights, legally and
morally, to defend yourself to the best of your ability.
A word of caution, however. Be sure you are really threat-
ened. Merely having someone call you a dirty name does
not give you the freedom to kick his knees or poke his eyes.
xii Your Body

There have been cases where the victim of an attack has actu-
ally been sued because he or she injured the attacker. It is
unfortunate, but you may have to prove that you were actu-
ally in danger or that at least you believed you (or your loved
ones) were in danger and that is why you resorted to violence.
The best rule of thumb is to just walk away or try to talk
your way out of an altercation. Use your common sense.
After all, the other person may have a weapon in his pocket.
He might have two or three friends around the corner. You
don’t want to fight unless you absolutely have to. Avoiding
a confrontation is always a win/win situation.
I like to use this simple formula to teach my students about
the importance of common sense in self-defense: P-R-E-F.
P is for prevention. This means doing things like parking
under a streetlight in the shopping-mall parking lot when
you know you will be returning to your car after dark. It
means putting your wallet in your pocket sideways so that
it is harder for a pickpocket to slide it out.
Prevention is taking some commonsense precautions to
avoid any possible trouble. Don’t pull out a roll of bills in
a bar where you don’t know anyone. Don’t let a repairman
in the front door without proper identification.
R is for recognition. Be aware as you walk down the street
and you’ll notice that suspicious-looking person following
you. Recognize that the drunk at the bar is getting out of
hand and excuse yourself before you wish you had. Recogni-
tion is being aware enough to head off potential trouble
before it gets too bad.
We have all been told to drive defensively, watching out
for the other guy. You should conduct yourself in the same
watchful, defensive manner at all times.
E is for escape. This means talking your way out of a fight
or running if you have to. There is no shame in running from
a fight. You may have saved someone (either yourself or the
other person) some serious injury (or worse) by doing so.
Cooperate with an assailant. Give him your wallet.
Apologize for cutting him off on the freeway. Let him know
you don’t want to fight him. Remember, you want to avoid
the confrontation.
 The Ultimate Lethal Weapon xiii

F is for the actual fight. This part of the equation is the

last resort. You only stand and fight if it is obvious he is going
to beat you up, or worse.
If and when it becomes necessary to take this last step,
fight as hard and as fast as you can. Have no mercy because
you can be sure your attacker will have none on you. Use
the most effective techniques you can, and keep hitting until
you have subdued the attacker or until you can escape.
Tiiis is especially hard for women to do. They must com-
mit themselves psychologically at that point to doing
whatever is necessary to defend themselves. That may mean
breaking an assailant’s knee, gouging his eyes, or whatever.
You must be prepared to go all the way or you will lose.
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Target Areas
So SSS*———S———

We're going to divide the parts of the body into thirteen

target areas. The success of your techniques will depend
upon striking the proper area. Not all parts of the body are
vulnerable to attack, and so you must know where—as well
as how—to strike. Hitting someone in the shoulder, for
example, may only serve to make him more violent.
Here are the three primary target areas as taught by most
self-defense instructors. These are areas which can be injured
with little more than the force of a fingertip strike. A hard
blow to any one of the three could be fatal, so you must be
careful and use common sense if you decide to strike one
of these areas.
2 Your Body

Primary
Targets

throat

eee

groin

There are many more parts of the body that are susceptible
to attack. Rather than create a long listing that you probably
won't remember, I'll just point out ten of the most common
and the ones easiest to get to. Let’s call these the secondary
target areas. Striking these targets will usually result in at
least a stunning effect and, at the most moderate, serious
injury.
 The Ultimate Lethal Weapon 3

] Secondary
Targets

temple nade

peck (side and back) collarbone

solar plexus

ribs

kidney

knee

shin

instep
 SI S__—t—=t

Basic Blocks
[SSS 004606828298990000°S—S

Any book on self-defense should cover the basic ways to

block an incoming strike. After all, if your attacker hits you
first and manages to knock you out, the fight is over. You
need to know how to block or parry his attack. Having said
that, however, blocks are actually less important in real street
situations than they would be in a karate competition. Most
real-life fights do not involve blocking a continuing series
of blows with the hands and/or feet. A person will more often
than not take a few swings at you and end up trying to grab
you and throw you into a wall or over a bar. This is where
you really need to know how to elbow, knee, and poke his
eyes.
Being able to block well enough to stop everything an
attacker might throw at you means you have spent long, long
hours in practice drills. These are hours that the average per-
son doesn’t have the time or the desire to spend. So let’s just
cover five simple ways of blocking (and one way of standing
ready). Practice them until you think you have the general
concepts of movement, and don’t forget to review them
periodically. They may not be as important as the strikes,
but remember that if he knocks you out first, you’ll never
have that chance to front-kick his solar plexus.
5
6 Your Body

OUTSIDE BLOCK
1. This is probably the
most commonly used
block in a real fight. Use
it to stop a swinging-type
punch coming toward
the side of your head.
2.The forearm does
the blocking. Lift the
elbow slightly so the fist
cannot hook around your
arm and still hit your
head.
3. Note that the de-
fender has also shifted
his head to the side to
further avoid the punch.
The Ultimate Lethal Weapon 7

INSIDE BLOCK
4. This block is also
designed to stop a swing-
ing-type punch.
5. The opposite side of
the forearm is used.
6. The same shifting of
the head is employed to
get further out of the way
of the punch attack.
8 Your Body

RISING BLOCK
7. This block is com-
monly used to stop a
weapon, but it can be
used against an empty
hand attack as well.
8. Be sure to block the
attacker’s arm and not
the stick or knife itself.
9.It is very impor-
tant to move the head to
avoid the attack espe-
cially if there is a weapon
involved.
The Ultimate Lethal Weapon 9

LOW BLOCK
10. This is used to stop
either a low punch to the
abdomen or a kick to the
midsection.
11. Use the outer fore-
arm to block.
12. This time, move
your hips slightly to the
rear to provide a safety
margin as you block.
10 Your Body

X-BLOCK
13. If a particularly
large person is doing the
striking, you might want
to use both hands to
block.
14. The same thing
applies to a kick.
15. Remember: If the
attacker has a weapon,
you need to avoid it with
your body and block as
well.
The Ultimate Lethal Weapon 111

DEFENSIVE POSTURE
16. If you want to main-
tain a defensive position
without actually putting
your hands up in fists
(thereby signaling the
aggressor that you are
ready to fight), you might
try this position.
17. Note how easy it is
to move the hand into an
outside block.
18. You can also quickly
strike to the face area.
 c—

Basic Strik S ,
a }

Your body is made up of a number of ‘“‘weapons.”’ A mar-

tial artist makes use of at least nine body parts (the hands,
feet, elbows, knees, and head) and can turn any one of them
into lethal weapons. There are a variety of ways to strike with
each of these weapons. We can only cover twenty-two of them
here, but if you practice enough to feel comfortable with even
just a few of the ones shown in this book, you will have come
a long way toward being able to defend yourself.

13
14 Your Body

CLOSED HAND STRIKES (PUNCH)

How to Make a Punch
19. To make a fist, start with the fingers extended.
20. Curl them back over the palm.
21. Fold the thumb tightly over the fingers.
22. The striking surface should be the two largest knuckles.
Caution: If you hit with the little knuckles, there is a good
chance you could break them.
 The Ultimate Lethal Weapon 15

Jab
23. A straight jab is an
effective technique.
24.1f you don’t lean
into the punch, you rob
yourself of power and
reach.
25. By moving your
hips forward, you can do
much more damage.
Note that the feet did not
move any closer than in
the previous photo; the
forward thrust is done
only with the hips.

24 25
16 Your Body

Reverse Punch
26-27. A reverse punch is used when you need more power
than a straight jab. It comes from the back side where you
can use more body motion.
28. Again, you must make use of hip motion to maximize
power. Shown is a weak punch that may not even reach the
target.
29. Here the hips are twisted. Note that the feet did not
get any closer than in the previous photo.
 The Ultimate Lethal Weapon 17

Inverted Punch
30. The inverted punch is used for attacking the ribs.

Illustration 3. Because the fist is turned upward, the arm will

bend when blocked and the fist can still reach the target area.
18 Your Body

Backfist
31. The backfist is a powerful technique.
32. The back of the first two knuckles is used to strike.
 The Ultimate Lethal Weapon 19

Hammer
33. Hammer fist attacks are especially good for women and
children who may not be used to striking with their knuckles.
34. The inside flat part of the hand is used to hit the desired
target.
35. Close-up of the hammer fist attacks.

35
20 Your Body

OPEN HAND STRIKES

Chop
36. Everyone has heard of a karate chop, more correctly
called a knife-hand.
37. The striking surface is the side of the hand.
38. Note that the fingers are bent back out of the way and
the thumb is tucked in.

38
 The Ultimate Lethal Weapon 21

Ridge Hand
39-40. This is another powerful technique frequently seen
in competitive karate but also useful in self-defense. The
elbow should raise up as you prepare to deliver the blow to
help generate maximum power in the swing.
41. The striking surface is the inside part (or thumb side)
of the hand.
42. Close-up of the ridge hand.
 22 Your Body

Palm
43. A palm heel strike is especially effective to the chin
or under the nose.
Fingers
44. One or two fingers to the eyes will incapacitate an
attacker.
45. If you desire to strike with all four fingers, separate
them in the middle so they can straddle the bridge of the
nose.

45
 The Ultimate Lethal Weapon 23

Tiger Mouth
46. This can be a deadly blow if done with maximum
power. The windpipe could be crushed, and the person
would then suffocate.

46
 24 Your Body

ELBOWS
Forward
47. This is the most
often used elbow strike. It
can be applied when you
are grabbed from the
front.
48. The actual striking
surface is the flat part of
the elbow and not the
point or tip of the bone.
Rising
49. A rising elbow is
also very effective.

48 49
The Ultimate Lethal Weapon 25

Back
50.When someone
grabs you from the rear,
a back elbow is called for.
51. You can strike low
with the attack...
D2) e OL nigher,
26 Your Body

Down
53. A downward elbow
strike is often used after
a kick.
54. The kick bends the
opponent over, and you
can come down from
above him.
55. The target areas are
the back of the neck or
spine.

.
 The Ultimate Lethal Weapon 27

FOOT TECHNIQUES
Front Snap Kick
56. Start in a normal upright position.
57. Bring the kicking foot up to the opposite knee.
28
OO
Your Body

58. The kick extends

straight out to the target.
Pull the toes back, and
strike with the ball of the
foot.
59. Snap the foot back
to the original position.
This is important as it
increases the power of
the technique and pre-
vents someone from
grabbing your foot.
60. You can also strike
with the instep or with
the top of the foot to the
groin area.
 The Ultimate Lethal Weapon 29

Side Snap Kick

61. Start in a normal position.
62. Fold the kicking foot up to knee level.
30 Your Body

63. Strike with the heel

of the foot. Pull the toes
back out of the way.
64. As on the front
kick, retract the foot
quickly in a snapping
motion.
65. A kick to an at-
tacker’s knee is devastat-
ing and easy for most
beginners to do.
 The Ultimate Lethal Weapon 31

Roundhouse Kick
66. Normal stance.
67. Come around with the hip and point the knee of the
kicking leg toward the desired target area.
32 Your Body

68. The kick snaps out, striking with either the ball of the
foot (as in the front kick) or the instep.
69. Snap the foot back to the hip to prevent the opponent
from grabbing your leg and to add to the snapping, ‘‘con-
cussion’ effect.
 The Ultimate Lethal Weapon 33

Stomp
70. Stance.
71. Fold the foot as in
the other kicks.
72. The stomp or kick
itself should travel in
a downward motion to-
ward the knee or instep
of your attacker. A stomp
to the top of the foot can
be very painful and will
enable you to squeeze out
of a hold or grab and
strike with a more deadly
technique.

71 72
34 Your Body

Front Knee
73. A knee to the groin is very effective. Use your hips to
add thrust to the blow.
Round Knee
74. This works in the same way as the roundhouse kick.
Come around using your body momentum to generate maxi-
mum power.
 The Ultimate Lethal Weapon 35

HEAD
Front
75. When someone grabs you, pinning your arms to the
side...
76. ...use the top of your head (right at the hairline) to
smash your attacker’s face.
36 Your Body

Back
77. When grabbed from the rear...
78. ...jerk the back of your head into his face.
 —_—>oa<“020

Other
Weapons
[4s ———S—=—————SSSt

In Japanese, the word ‘‘karate”’ means “empty hand.” There

will seldom be a time, however, when you will be completely
empty handed. You probably have weapons of all kinds on
your person in addition.
Men usually carry pens, pencils, and change in their
pockets. Women will have combs, brushes, car keys, and the
like in their purses.
In this chapter we will cover eight other weapons you prob-
ably have at your disposal whenever you go out of the house.
One word of caution. In these examples, a lot depends on
your ability to follow up with an effective technique. If you
don’t have the skills to do that quickly and powerfully, you
should probably let the assailant have your wallet without
a fight. It’s not worth your life.
On the other hand, if you feel sure he is going to try to
physically harm you, go ahead and defend yourself to the
best of your ability.

3
38 Your Body

KEYS
79. Do not hold keys between the fingers as shown here.
They can easily slip to one side or the other.
80. Place a key between your thumb and first finger and
grip it tightly. Use the key you will need next, such as the
one that unlocks your car door when you are in the parking
lot or the one that unlocks your house when you are walk-
ing from your garage.
81. Use the key to thrust into an attacker’s eye...
82. ...or use it in a slashing motion.
 The Ultimate Lethal Weapon 39

PEN
83. Hold the pen or pencil in your hand with the index
finger pointing down the length of the pen or pencil. Now
all you have to do is point your finger to the target.
84. A pen can be deadly if used to the right target area.
Striking the eyes or throat will cause immediate pain and
injury.

83 84
40 Your Body

COMB
85. Hold the comb across the palm with the end supported
by the thumb. You can use it in a slashing motion to an
attacker’s face or hand.

UMBRELLA
86. An umbrella or cane can easily be carried on the street
and can be used to strike many vulnerable parts of an
attacker’s body. The face, throat, solar plexus, and groin are
all targets.
 The Ultimate Lethal Weapon 41

PURSE
87. Oftentimes the very thing an assailant is after, a
woman’s purse, can be used as a weapon against him. A
purse can be used as a distraction (that is to say, it can be
put right into his face).
88. Follow up with a knee to the groin.
42 Your Body

PACKAGES
89. You might not want to throw the new shoes you just
bought at an attacker, but it is infinitely better than getting
beaten or killed. Toss the package(s) right at his face.
90. Follow up with a kick to the knees or groin.
 The Ultimate Lethal Weapon 43

COINS
91. By reaching into your pockets, you are telling your
opponent that you will give him some money. Throw the
coins’ right at his eyes.
92. Follow up with a leg technique.

Woe
44 Your Body

SPIT
93. Just the sound of it makes you curl up your nose, doesn’t
it? The natural reaction is to try to wipe it off immediately.
94. Now is the time for your follow-up.

93 94
SSS
—(9ISSSS ee ——1

Combination
—[]——"
Techniques
Now let’s look at some actual situations and defensive
techniques. Look over the following photos, and practice the
techniques shown with a partner if possible.
Remember, however, that no two situations will be exactly
the same. In one instance, you might be able to use the com-
binations precisely as shown here and they will work
wonderfully, but in another situation, your assailant might
be slightly out of position and you will have to execute a dif-
ferent move. Use these examples more as principles of self-
defense rather than as exact prescriptions of what to do in
every situation.
There are obviously many more than twenty ways of grab-
bing someone. Remember, however, that the techniques
shown here are basic principles of defense. A kick to the
knee or jabbing fingers into the eyes will work in a number
of instances. Practice these techniques enough and you will
know what to do in almost any situation.

45
46 Your Body
a

FRONT ATTACKS
One-Hand Grab
95. Grab.
96. Twist to the thumb side of the opponent’s hand to
release the hold. Use the strength of your entire arm against
his thumb.
 The Ultimate Lethal Weapon 47

Two-Hand Grab
97. Grab.
98. Reach over the top with your opposite hand and clasp
your hands together.
48 Your Body

99. Pull straight up against the thumb of your attacker.

100. If he is stronger than you are, step back for more power
and momentum.

99 100
 The Ultimate Lethal Weapon 49

One-Hand Grab (Lock)

101. An attacker grabs your right wrist with his right hand.
102. Use your left hand to firmly lock his hand onto your

102
50 Your Body

103. Reach up and over in a clockwise direction with your

right hand.
104. Grasp his wrist while still locking his hand.
105. Pushing down with your right hand will cause pain
to shoot up his arm and he will drop to his knees. Note: Be
sure to keep the wrist bone of his grabbing hand vertical for
the best effect.

104 105
 The Ultimate Lethal Weapon 51

One-Hand Grab (Lock), Other Side

106. An attacker grabs your right wrist with his left hand.
107. Lock his hand to your wrist with your left.

106 107
 52 Your Body

108. Reach up and over in a counterclockwise motion with

your right hand.
109. Bring your fingers over his wrist.
110. Pushing down with your right hand will cause him
pain. Again, keep his wrist vertical.

109 110
 The Ultimate Lethal Weapon 53

Choke Hold
111. Grab.
112. Reach over the top with one hand and grab your other
hand coming in from the bottom.

111 112
54 Your Body

113. Close-up view.

114. Twist down on the
side where your hand is
on top. Use your arm
underneath to push the
opponent’s arm up and
off.
115. Keep twisting until
his arm is completely off
you.
113

115
 The Ultimate Lethal Weapon 55

Two-Hand Lapel Grab

116. Grab.
117.Cup your hands,
and slap your opponent’s
ears. This creates a suc-
tion effect and can tem-
porarily deafen him.
118. As a follow-up, you
can use your thumbs to
penetrate his eyes.
116

117 118
56 Your Body

One-Hand Lapel Grab

119. Grab.
120. Grab his attacking
hand with your right.
121. Twist your shoul-
ders effectively, bringing
him into your rising palm
strike as you step out.
 The Ultimate Lethal Weapon 57

Bear Hug
122. Grab.
123. Push his hips back
as you step backward.
124. Bring the knee
directly into his groin.
122

123 124
58 Your Body

Floor Pin
125. Hold.
126. Pull your feet up
as close as possible.
127. Pull your hands
out as you buck upward
with your hips. This
makes him release your
hands to protect his face
from hitting the floor.
125

126 127
 The Ultimate Lethal Weapon 59

128. As he releases
your hands, roll to the
side and push him off.
129. Keep rolling and
pushing so he does not
fall on top of you.
130. Follow up with a
hammer fist to the groin.
128

129 130
60_Sound tet ie se ee

Left Outside Block and Counter

131. The attacker is ready to grab or punch.
132. As he steps in, execute a left outside block.

131 132
 The Ultimate Lethal Weapon 61

133. Strike to the eyes with a spear hand.

134. Finish with a right front kick.
62 Your Body

Right Outside Block and Counter

135. The attacker prepares to grab you.
136. Step to the outside and execute an outside block.
 The Ultimate Lethal Weapon 63

3
137. Pick the knee up high for a round kick.
138. Strike to his solar plexus or groin area.

137 138
64 Your Body

REAR ATTACKS
One-Hand Grab
139. Grab.
140. Turn and block the
hand off your shoulder.
141. Reverse punch to
his ribs or kidneys.

140 141
 The Ultimate Lethal Weapon 65

Side-Hand Grab
142. Grab.
143. Grasp his sleeve for balance.

142 143
66 Your Body

144. Turn your hips for

maximum drive in the
kick.
145. Side-kick to his
knee joint.
146. If you are limber
enough, you could follow
with a higher side kick to
break his ribs.

145 146
 The Ultimate Lethal Weapon 67

Two-Hand Choke
147. Grab.
148. Pick your leg up
for power.
149. Drive your foot
straight back into his
knee.
147

148 149
68 Your Body

Bear Hug
150. Grab.
151. Step to the right
with your right foot and
shift your hips to the
right. This creates an
open space in front of the
attacker’s groin.
152. Hammer-fist back
into his groin.
150

151 152
 The Ultimate Lethal Weapon 69

Bear Hug (Option Two)

153. Grab.
154. Pick up your foot.

153 154
70 Your Body

155. Drive a kick straight back into his knee.

156. Drop the heel hard down onto his instep.

155 156
 The Ultimate Lethal Weapon 71

157. Step to the side

and bring your arms
straight out to the front.
158. Whip a rear elbow
strike into his solar
plexus.
159. Finish him with a
palm strike to the groin.
157

158 159
72 Your Body

Arm Lock
160. Hold.
161. Turn in the oppo-
site direction of the hold
and elbow.
162. If he moves his
head away or if he just
falls backward, finish
with a chop.
160

aao
w
i
>

161 162
 The Ultimate Lethal Weapon 73

Head Lock
163. Hold.
164. Reach up with your right hand.

163 164
74 YounBody! a

165. Grab a handful of

hair. (If your attacker is
bald, put your fingers
into his eyes and pull
back.)
166. Straighten him up
to prepare for the strike.
167. Hammer-fist to the
groin.
165

166 167
 The Ultimate Lethal Weapon 75

Head Lock with a Punch

168. If the attacker is
going to punch your face,
be sure to grab his
punching hand from
around his back.
169. Obviously, you
cannot hold him for long
in this position...
1707s SOn VOU, Inust
strike quickly to the groin
with a hammer fist or
chop.
168

169 170
76 Your Body

Full Nelson
171. Grab.
172. Position your hands in front of your forehead to
counter his pressure on your neck.
&

171 172
 The Ultimate Lethal Weapon 77

173. Bring your heel up

to his groin.
174. Reach up and peel
back one or two fingers
of his top hand.
175. Elbow into his
face.
173

174 175
 Defense
Against
——— 2
Weapons
_—{lUEV_][22S—S]|SSS0—]====s

No karate instructor I know says you should try to fight

someone who has a weapon. Give him your money, beg him
not to hurt you, turn tail and run, do anything you have to
before resorting to fighting. If he has a knife or gun, you have
to assume he is an expert with that weapon and that he will
use it on you.
Only if you have given him all your money and he is still
threatening you should you try to disarm him. You should
feel certain he is going to injure you (or worse) before you
attempt to fight an armed opponent.
I have only shown you three simple knife defenses (which
could easily be applied to a stick or club) because I do not
want to be responsible for leading you to believe you can
defend yourself against a gun just by looking at a few
photographs in a book.

79
80 Your Body

Downward Knife Attack

176. The opponent comes down with knife.
177. Execute a rising X-block.

RS

aoe

176 177
 The Ultimate Lethal Weapon 81

178. Close-up.
179. Grab the wrist
with your top hand.
180. Move to the side
and use the attacker’s
downward momentum to
guide the knife back into
his body.
178

179 180
82 Your Body

Straight-In Knife Attack

181. Do an X-block as he stabs.
182. Close-up.

181 182
 The Ultimate Lethal Weapon 83

183. Push his hand to the right as you scoop under with
your right hand. Note how the thumb has captured the wrist.
184. Slipping your hands around his, step out to the left
to ekecute a wrist lock/throw.

ke

183 184
84 Your Body

Back and Forth Slash

185. The attacker prepares to slash at you.
186. Wait until he has gone past you.

185
 The Ultimate Lethal Weapon 85

187. On his way back (on the weak swing to his rear), block
with both arms.
188. Keep hold of the arm with the knife and elbow to the
face.

187 188
7 J ‘ =
7 - y a 34
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Precautions
eS, 2200S
SSS ).———3—=3

Perhaps the best self-defense weapon you have is your self-

confidence. The way you walk, stand, and move can radiate
calm and confidence. People who seem unaware of their sur-
roundings and amble along daydreaming are perceived as
prime targets by muggers. Police studies confirm that body
movement can constitute an ‘“‘assault potential” that crimi-
nals can read as a sign to move in.
Martial artists, as a rule, move in a strong but relaxed man-
ner. They walk in a positive way as if they had a destination
in mind. The mugger won’t necessarily suspect they know
karate, but he will probably think twice before attacking and
pick an easier target.
Many people, however, have a difficult time exuding that
kind of self-confidence because they feel that they couldn’t
seriously defend themselves. They walk the streets in
paranoia. Now a little paranoia is good because it keeps you
on your toes, but gaining more confidence in your abilities
is the question we want to address here.
The only reason someone will attack you is because he
thinks he is going to win. He doesn’t expect you to be able
to defend yourself. You have the element of surprise on your
87
88 Your Body

side, and he is vulnerable because of his overconfidence.

Remember that your face, especially your eyes, mirrors
your emotions. When you are nervous or frightened, such
emotions are reflected in the way you look at someone. When
confronted by potential violence, try to keep your face expres-
sionless and your eyes watchful. (It’s impossible to appear
confident if your eyes show fear and your facial muscles are
twitching.)
Although fear can often paralyze us, it can have positive
benefits as well. It can get us ready psychologically for quick
action, whether it is an attack or a hasty retreat. Again, let
me emphasize that running or talking your way out of a fight
is not a coward’s way out. Instead, it can be a sign of apy
and wisdom.
The best way to control your fear before you have to act
is to try to control your breathing. Breathe calmly and deeply.
Try not to hyperventilate.
If you decide you will have to fight instead of run away,
do so with a loud shout or yell. Martial artists call their yell
a “‘kiai” and bring up breath from the diaphragm to make
an explosive and arresting shout. Besides unnerving your
opponent, a yell tends to focus your energy and tighten your
entire body so you are less likely to be hurt if hit.
As you practice the techniques in this book, imagine
yourself in various real-life situations. The more mentally
prepared you can be, the better. As you go about your daily
activities, think defensively. Be aware of yourself and your
surroundings.
When walking, stay away from parked cars, doorways,
hedges, and other places an assailant might hide. Walk fac-
ing oncoming traffic to lesson the chance of a car pulling
up behind you unnoticed. Don’t jog with a set of headphones
on since you'll never hear that mugger (or German shepherd)
coming up on you.
Stay alert—even in your own neighborhood. A third of
street muggings occur within four blocks of one’s home.
Traveling with companions cuts your risk of attack by at
least 80 percent. Muggers prefer a lone target. Coordinate
 The Ultimate Lethal Weapon 89

schedules with a friend for shopping trips or recreation

whenever possible.
Avoid stairwells and public rest rooms when you can. Be
cautious about entering an elevator with a lone stranger. If
you are frightened or threatened, push the alarm button and
as many floors as possible. The alarm may frighten him and
you will have a chance to get off at the next floor.
Léck yourself inside your car when driving. Be overly
cautious and park your car under a light even if it is day
and you may not return until after dark. Always look into
your car and behind the front seat before entering. Lock your
valuables in the trunk and out of sight. Leave only your car
ignition key with the parking lot attendant.
Have your keys ready before you get to your car or front
door and carry them as I| have already shown you. Never
hitchhike or accept a ride from a stranger.
Pickpockets abound at sporting events, theaters, and super-
markets—anywhere crowds gather. The safest place for a
man’s wallet is in his front pants pocket. If it won’t fit there,
carry it sideways in your rear pocket so it is harder to slip
out. Women should never leave their purse unattended in
a shopping cart or on a store counter. It only takes a second
for someone to grab it.
If you should lose your keys, have your locks changed
immediately. Many people keep their doors locked (a double-
cylinder deadbolt is best) but forget to lock their windows.
Lock your garage as securely as your house or a burglar may
use your own tools to gain entry into your home.
Despite the fact that most people know not to allow a
stranger into their home to make a phone call, the police
are constantly filing robbery or rape reports on people who
forget that simple rule. Always request a salesman or repair-
man to show identification; if you didn’t request his services,
call his company to verify his identity before admitting him.
Make your house look occupied when you are not at home.
Have a neighbor collect mail and newspapers. Put your lights
on.a timer. Etch identification on nondetachable parts of
your TVs, cameras, guns, and appliances.
90 Your Body

IF CONFRONTED
Let’s say you pull up to the drugstore, stop in the handi-
capped parking spot (I know you'd never do that, but this
is an example), leave your motor running and dash into the
store for a tube of toothpaste. When you return and drive
off, you discover that someone has entered your car and is
hidden behind your seat.
You have been taken hostage in your own car. Usually you
can’t tell if the intruder really intends to use a weapon on
you. It is likely that he is only using it to intimidate you into
giving him what he wants. He is probably as frightened as
you are; by provoking him, you may cause him to react by
harming you even though that was not his original intention.
That same principle applies if you confront a burglar ‘in
your home. He is excited and possibly on drugs. Assure him
you will cooperate fully. You want to keep him calm to pre-
vent violence.
Seeing you unarmed, an attacker might single you out
as the perfect vulnerable target. But little does he
know: your body is a collection of deadly weapons,
He—not you—is the one who doesn't stand a chance,
because your foot can easily crash through his chest!

With little more than the force of a fingertip strike, you

can incapacitate him. But not all parts of the body are
vulnerable to attack, so you must know where—and
how,-10 strike. Keith Yates, a 6th degree black belt-in
Tae Kwon Do, draws upon his extensive expertise in the
martial arts to show you which strikes and moves you
need to know. He tells you what target areas to go for,
how to protect yourself by blocking incoming strikes,
what combination techniques to use, and how to stop
everything an attacker might throw at you.

Walk with confidence. After all, you're a lethal

weapon!

A PALADIN PRESS BOOK

ISBN 0-87364-438-7
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