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Writer's pictureEmmanuel Manolakakis

Self Defense Training

Updated: Oct 9

Protecting yourself from attacks from behind involves a combination of awareness, physical techniques, and precautionary measures. This week’s self defense training classes will explore this topic in greater detail. Until then, here are a few pointers.


Awareness and Prevention


Always be aware of your surroundings. Avoid distractions like headphones or smartphones when in potentially risky areas.


Stick to well-lit and populated areas, especially at night.


Whenever possible, travel with someone else.


If you feel uneasy about a situation or person, trust your gut and remove yourself from the situation if possible.


Physical Techniques

Practice and focus on self-defence that focuses on real-life scenarios, including attacks from behind.


Learn to break free from common holds, such as chokeholds or bear hugs.


Your elbows and feet can be effective tools. Practice striking backward with your elbows and stomping on the attacker's feet, plus much more.


If possible, turn quickly to face your attacker. This can make it harder for them to control you and allow you to defend yourself better.


man being grabbed from the back
attack from the back at martial arts self defense training East York

Stories about being attacked from the back often evoke strong emotions due to the element of surprise and vulnerability. Here are some famous or notable stories where being attacked from the back plays a significant role:

Historical and Mythological Stories


Julius Caesar: The assassination of Julius Caesar is one of the most famous backstabbing incidents in history. On the Ides of March, 44 BC, Caesar was attacked by a group of senators. The betrayal by his close friend Brutus, who stabbed him from behind, added a poignant element to this historical event.


Trojan War - Achilles: In Greek mythology, Achilles, the greatest warrior of the Trojan War, was killed by an arrow shot by Paris, guided by Apollo, that struck his heel—the only vulnerable part of his body. Although not a traditional "backstab," a surprise attack led to his downfall.


"Hamlet" by William Shakespeare: In this tragedy, Hamlet is stabbed from behind by Laertes with a poisoned sword during a duel. The treachery and deceit surrounding the act highlight the themes of betrayal and revenge in the play.

"The Lord of the Rings" by J.R.R. Tolkien: In the climactic moment of "The Return of the King," Gollum attacks Frodo from behind, biting off his finger to seize the One Ring. This act of betrayal underscores the corrupting power of the Ring.


"Game of Thrones":

Jon Snow: In the TV series, Jon Snow is betrayed and stabbed by his fellow Night's Watch members in a mutinous attack from behind. This pivotal scene showcases the dangers of leadership and the precariousness of trust.

Robb Stark: During the Red Wedding, Robb Stark is betrayed and murdered along with his mother and supporters. The attack from behind by his supposed allies makes this scene one of the most shocking in the series.


"The Godfather":

Sonny Corleone: In a brutal scene, Sonny Corleone is ambushed at a toll booth and gunned down. Although not a literal backstab, the ambush aspect carries the same betrayal and surprise.


Pearl Harbor: The surprise attack on Pearl Harbor by the Japanese Navy on December 7, 1941, is often described as a "backstabbing" event. The attack led to the United States' entry into World War II and is remembered as a significant act of betrayal and treachery.


"Star Wars":

Anakin Skywalker/Darth Vader: Anakin Skywalker's turn to the dark side and subsequent betrayal of the Jedi Order can be seen as a figurative backstab. His attack on his former mentor, Obi-Wan Kenobi, is a dramatic representation of this betrayal.


"Psycho" by Alfred Hitchcock: The infamous shower scene where Marion Crane is attacked from behind by Norman Bates is a classic moment in cinema that exemplifies the horror of a surprise attack.

These stories span various genres and mediums, from historical events to mythology, literature, film, and real-life incidents. They all share the common theme of a sudden, unexpected attack from behind, highlighting the shock and betrayal felt by the victims.


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