Self-defense course

Module 3 — Hands-On Basics

Lesson 28 of 50Using your legs to create distance

12 min

Dr. Mira explains · Module 3 — Hands-On Basics · Lesson 28

Dr. Mira explaining lesson 28: Using your legs to create distance

Dr. Mira's selected Voice Calibration voice

Transcript

Hi, sweetheart. It's Dr. Mira. Welcome to lesson 28: Using your legs to create distance. Low kicks that let you run, not fight. Let me walk you through this properly, the way I would if we were sitting together. Everything starts with your base. Feet about shoulder width, one foot slightly back, knees soft. From that stance you can push, turn, or run. Go slowly. Do each movement ten times slow before you ever do it fast. Speed comes after the movement feels natural. Break grabs by moving against the thumb — that is the weakest point of any grip, every time, on both sides. Strike with the heel of your palm, not your knuckles. Your hand stays safe and you keep it available for pushing off and running. These are escape moves, not fighting moves. The goal is always to create one second of space and use it to get away. If you go down, tuck your chin and land on the meat of your arm and hip, never your head or a straight elbow. Practice with someone you trust, or in front of a mirror. Ten slow minutes a week beats one hard hour a month. Now here's how I want you to practice. Read the lesson once, picture yourself doing it, and then do it for real one time today. One repetition is enough to start. If it feels awkward the first time, that's normal. Awkward means new, not wrong. That's all for this one. Watch it as many times as you need. I'm so proud of you for being here.

What this lesson covers

Low kicks that let you run, not fight.

Module goal: Build a few simple physical skills that still work when you are scared and shaking.

What you'll be able to do

Use low kicks to create distance so you can run.

Key points

  • Kick low: shin, knee, or the front of the thigh.
  • Never kick above your own waist on the street.

Step by step

  1. 1Keep both hands up.
  2. 2Push-kick or stomp low.
  3. 3Do not chase.
  4. 4Turn and run to your safe door.

Common mistakes

  • High kicks on wet or uneven pavement — you fall.

New York City scenario

You create three feet of space with a low push kick, then sprint to the diner.

Practice drill

Ten low push kicks each leg, always followed by a run of five steps.

Quick check

What is the goal of the kick?