Self-defense course

Module 3 — Hands-On Basics

Lesson 30 of 50Getting back up fast

11 min

Dr. Mira explains · Module 3 — Hands-On Basics · Lesson 30

Dr. Mira explaining lesson 30: Getting back up fast

Dr. Mira's selected Voice Calibration voice

Transcript

Hi, sweetheart. It's Dr. Mira. Welcome to lesson 30: Getting back up fast. Standing from the ground with your eyes forward. 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

Standing from the ground with your eyes forward.

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

What you'll be able to do

Get up from the ground fast with your eyes forward.

Key points

  • Technical stand-up: never turn your back to get up.
  • Keep one hand free.

Step by step

  1. 1Sit on one hip, same-side hand posted behind you.
  2. 2Plant the opposite foot.
  3. 3Push up on the posted hand and foot, sweeping the other leg back.
  4. 4Stand facing the threat, then move.

Common mistakes

  • Rolling onto hands and knees — it gives up your back and your view.

New York City scenario

You go down, do a technical stand-up, and you're facing them the whole way.

Practice drill

Fifteen technical stand-ups, alternating sides.

Quick check

What's wrong with getting up on hands and knees?