Debunking common myths

One of the major controversies in teaching self defense is whether testicles should be considered a recommended target. Some self defense experts claim women should not be told to attack the assailant's testicles and they list several reasons for that. However, these are old misconceptions, sometimes subconsciously perpetuated due to the reasons mentioned in my previous post. Here I would like to debunk these dangerous myths.

It would just make him angry and more violent. Possibly, if you do not execute it correctly or too lightly. In order to be effective, the techniques have to be practice extensively and when needed, executed without hesitation and with full force. The aim should always be to do the maximal damage and injury possible. This ensures he is either incapacitated by an overwhelming pain, in shock or even unconscious, hence no more a threat to you.

It takes a long time till he registers the pain.  Indeed, it might take some time till the pain signal reaches his brain, however this is usually within a time frame of a few seconds.  Just go to YouTube and watch any MMA match featuring a groin shot. The moment testicles are hit, even the strongest guy goes down almost instantly. Two seconds delay does not matter, this won’t be enough for him to do any harm to you.  

He expects it and protects his testicles. This is partially true, men usually realize their vulnerability sometime during their early age and since then anxiously guard them. This is a logical behavioral phenomenon,  however, it can be easily overcome. I advise to firstly drop his guard by using a distraction method or so-called play along approach for the most brutal last resort techniques.  Importantly, women should be trained not to telegraph their moves. A sudden eye jab or just a slap in the face is usually enough to forget about his vulnerability for a moment. And before he realizes his mistake it’s too late and a good load of pain rushes through his body. One should also keep in mind, it is not that easy for him to protect his testicles due to their awkward position and when his hands are occupied. 

It is generally difficult to attack testicles. Testicles are positioned approximately in the center of the man’s body and depending on his and your position are reachable by your legs, knees, elbows, hands and even your head. It is not easier to attack eyes, ears, Adam's apple or knees. Any woman can be trained to execute the testicle strikes effectively but it requires a teacher's dedication which is unfortunately often  missing. Everything has its pros and cons. In this case the pros clearly overweight the cons.  

It is not that painful.  Well, this young guy probably thinks otherwise.