Train for an Escape 

While crime rates have continued to decline across the country over the last decade, particularly when it comes to homicide, assault and burglary, there are still numerous instances of carjackings. Carjacking, if you are not already aware, occurs when a criminal steals an individual’s car either by threatening to harm or kill the driver, or simply by breaking into a vehicle when the individual is away.

As a resident in one of the many cities in the United States, it is unlikely that carjacking is something you think about on a daily basis. However, the reality is that like most crimes carjacking occurs quite frequently. Being prepared for a carjacking is absolutely crucial. Fortunately, there are some simple ways to prepare yourself for such a frightening situation.

Staying calm

The first thing to remember during a potential carjacking scenario is to keep your wits about you. There are a number of techniques that carjackers use to lure you out and away from your vehicle. A carjacker might bump into the rear of your vehicle, encouraging you to get out. Alternatively, they might have accomplices who request you to leave your vehicle and provide them with help in the form of a small favor like carrying a heavy item.

These instincts for detecting criminal intent do not come naturally to most people. In such cases, it may be wise to undertake some degree of self-defense training to sharpen awareness and rehearse your response. Self-defense training and martial arts will help you keep track of your surroundings, and place yourself in positions where you cannot easily be taken advantage of. You will learn to evaluate your environment especially with regard to the people around you.

Knowing your objective

Perhaps one of the most important things to remember during a carjacking situation is not to be a hero. If you have identified a carjacking taking place, any self-defense trainer will explain to you that you should do as little as possible in the way of confrontation before making an escape. It is extremely difficult to predict what a criminal might do, especially if there are firearms or other weapons involved. If you do find yourself involved in a carjacking, assess the situation and determine whether you can perform a simple self-defense technique before escaping. Remember that your first priority should be the safety of you and your loved ones.

Crabapplemartialarts.com and Crabapple Martial Arts Academy has been selected the nation’s #1 martial arts schools for SIX YEARS IN A ROW by the American Budokai International!

Founded in 2013 by Mr. C. Matthew White a 5th degree Black Belt in Karate and 6^th degree Black Belt in Jiu Jitsu, and Master Instructor, Crabapple Martial Arts and Karate lessons for pre-school children ages 4-6, and elementary age kids ages 7 and up, are designed to develop the critical building blocks kids need – specialized for their age group – for school excellence and later success in life.

Crabapple Martial Arts Adult Karate training is a complete adult fitness and conditioning program for adults who want to lose weight, get (and stay) in shape, or learn self-defense in a supportive environment.

Instructors can answer questions or be contacted 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at office@crabapplemartialarts.com or call directly at 770-645-0930. You can also visit our website at CrabappleMartialArts.com.

About C. Matthew White, Renshi:  Matt is a fifth-degree black belt in a traditional Japanese and Okinawan Martial Arts – Shuri Ryu Karatedo. He is also a sixth-degree black belt in Japanese Jiu Jitsu – Shintoyoshin Kai Jiu Jitsu, and a master instructor with the title of Renshi, which means Scholar in Japanese.  Matt has a bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Physiology. He has been training and teaching martial arts for over 27 years and has owned Crabapple Martial Arts Academy since 2013. Renshi White is a motivational speaker and educator and teaches seminars in bullying, business, and martial arts training, around the world.

Crabapple Martial Arts Academy Headquarters is in Alpharetta, Georgia at 12315 Crabapple Road., Suite 124, Alpharetta GA 30004. You can locate the Chief Instructor, Sensei Robert Reed there or directly at (770) 645-0930.