Danger Zone One

The following is an excerpt taken from Tashida Kom’s guide, Self-Defense Tactics 101.

Using Your Head—the Hard Way!

If done correctly, a targeted strike using your head can be a devastating blow against an attacker.

By applying your body mass behind a headbutt and striking an assailant with the frontal bone—located in the forehead region—you can cause serious damage and/or render your opponent unconscious.

The key is delivering the attack directly to your assailant’s face, aiming below their eyebrows. Ideal targets include the bridge of their nose, cheekbones, eye sockets, and jaw. A solid headbutt can break an opponent’s facial bones, which are small, brittle, and have numerous nerve endings. The nasal bone and teeth are particularly vulnerable, while targeting the bottom of the chin can result in an instant knockout.

While effective, the headbutt is also a high-risk attack for the inexperienced user. Avoid forehead-to-forehead contact and be mindful of where you’re directing your strike. Depending on the force and angle, improper impact can lead to self-injury that may include whiplash, cuts/lacerations, facial/skull fractures, and/or a concussion.

Danger Zone One. Story by Midnight. Art by Salaiix.