Combating Sexual Assault with Krav Maga

Story by Monica S. Herrera

In a world that glorifies the multi-tasking, technically savvy, super-chic Everywoman, it is not uncommon to see women juggling a variety of tasks all at once. Whether walking through the parking lot, unloading the groceries, or jogging the neighborhood, women are often so distracted (be it the cell phone, the iPod, or thinking about that long to-do list) that they often neglect their own personal safety. These kinds of distractions and a lack of situational awareness can leave a woman vulnerable to a sexual assault.

April is National Sexual Assault Awareness Month, and Joint Base San Antonio’s newest private organization, Voices Against Sexual Assault, and Krav Maga are partnering to sponsor a women’s only self-defense seminar on April 10th from 1-4pm. This specialized session will focus on promoting safe practices during common daily activities. Participants will learn self-defense techniques that can be used if attacked while getting in and out of a car and defensive skills that can be employed if attacked while walking or jogging.

The guest instructor for this event is Ms. Kelly Campbell, 3rd Degree Black Belt, and the highest ranking female in Krav Maga in the United States. Campbell, who lives in Los Angeles, has been teaching Krav Maga for over 10 years. Though she initially tried it on a whim, she instantly fell in love with Krav Maga, which is a fusion of several types of hand-to-hand combat techniques. “Once I started training, I knew right away that it was the thing for me,” says Campbell. “It kept me sane. I was a single mom, and it helped me stay strong through the hard times because of the empowerment and self-confidence I gained from it.” While some people may have difficulty even pronouncing the name of this fighting technique, Campbell insists that it is far easier than it sounds. “Krav Maga is so valuable because it was designed for the average person and is so simple. That’s what makes it so effective.”

With regards to teaching the women’s self-defense seminar, Campbell says her greatest reward comes from passing along the same feelings she had when she first tried it. “The most valuable thing that I’ve walked away with was the realization that I could do it. I could defend myself, and I could punch strong, and I have the tools within me to do it. In teaching the seminars, to see it click with my students when they realize that they can do it…it’s something so simple, and yet it means so much.” For those who cannot attend the upcoming seminar, Campbell shared some valuable tips for women to reduce their risk of being targeted for an attack. “Walk with confidence. The way that other people see you is what can open the door, potentially, for people to assault you.” Also, “be aware of your surroundings, and trust your instincts.”

The upcoming self-defense seminar is open to females ages 12 and up and will be held at the Krav Maga Worldwide Regional Training Center in San Antonio. To register online, visit www.krav-maga-san-antonio.com or call 210-348-6127. The cost is a $20 donation to Voices Against Sexual Assault. For more information about VASA or to learn how you can become a member, please send an e-mail to voicesvasa@gmail.com or visit “VOICES (VASA)” on Facebook.