Self-defense course

Module 4 — Subway, Bus & Night Travel

Lesson 35 of 50Inside the car: seat and exit choice

12 min

Dr. Mira explains · Module 4 — Subway, Bus & Night Travel · Lesson 35

Dr. Mira explaining lesson 35: Inside the car: seat and exit choice

Dr. Mira's selected Voice Calibration voice

Transcript

Hi, sweetheart. It's Dr. Mira. Welcome to lesson 35: Inside the car: seat and exit choice. Sitting where you can see the doors and move. Let me walk you through this properly, the way I would if we were sitting together. Plan your exit before you ever need it. Knowing the way out calms your body before anything happens. On the platform, stand back from the edge, near a pillar or the staffed booth, with your back not fully exposed. Pick the conductor's car at night — it is the middle of the train, and there is always a worker in it. Inside the car, sit where you can see the doors and where you have a clear path to stand up. Stand where other people can see you. Light and cameras are your friends. If your stomach tightens, change cars at the next stop. You do not need proof. Trust that signal. The first thirty seconds above ground matter most. Step out, move away from the stairwell, orient, then start walking with purpose. 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

Sitting where you can see the doors and move.

Module goal: Move through the subway, buses and late-night streets with a plan already made.

What you'll be able to do

Pick a seat you can see and leave from.

Key points

  • Sit where you can see the doors.
  • Avoid the corner seat that boxes you in.
  • Aisle-adjacent beats window-cornered.

Step by step

  1. 1Board and scan the car.
  2. 2Choose a seat with a clear line to a door.
  3. 3Keep your bag on your lap, not on the floor.

Common mistakes

  • Sitting in the end corner with your back to the connecting door.

New York City scenario

You sit mid-car facing the doors with a clear two-step exit.

Practice drill

Next three rides, choose your seat for exit access.

Quick check

What makes a seat bad?