Strike, kick, punch - Women urged to learn self-defence

For many women living alone, the simple act of leaving school or work, or returning home after dark, has become a source of daily anxiety. In recent days, a wave of social media posts has reignited public concern, with women openly sharing experiences of harassment, stalking, and frightening close calls. But more troubling, many say they felt helpless in those moments, citing what they believe is a lack of legal self-defence options available to protect themselves.

Students and young professionals say they have been forced to change their routines in an effort to feel safer leaving earlier, avoiding certain routes, or relying on constant vigilance. Still, one young professional told THE STAR that these adjustments offer very little comfort.

"I don't think I should have to do all of that just to feel safe," she said. "It doesn't make me feel protected, it just makes me feel more on edge."

A university student shared similar concerns, explaining that attending night classes puts her at a disadvantage when commuting home.

"I'm a walk-foot," she said. "When I am waiting for a taxi at night, I have to keep my eyes open at all times. Even when the bus stop is full, you don't know who is who."

Concerns about women's safety are not new. In a 2023 STAR article, then Festival Queen Aundrene Cameron spoke about the importance of equipping women with self-defence skills, noting that such training can empower women to protect themselves against potential attackers.

Former parliamentarian Lisa Hanna has also long advocated for women's ability to defend themselves, stating that "a woman must be able to defend herself if the need arises."

Yet, as Jamaica moves into 2026, many women say little has changed, despite years of discussion and advocacy. But Kick Boxing instructor Richard Cowan, says while a large-scale address would be of national interest, women must take their safety in their own hands.

"The world is messy, so while that would be good, women have to know how to defend themselves now, women must know how to step out first and don't wait until they are attacked" he shared.

However, Cowan noted that even with self-defence training, women remain at a physical disadvantage in most confrontations.

"Learning self-defence like what you see in the movies, the woman is still at a disadvantage. If she doesn't have a tool, she is really at a disadvantage. Most men overpower women at about a 2:1 ratio in terms of strength," he said.

However most self-defence tools, including, taser, mace and pepper spray, are currently prohibited across the island, but Cowan shared that the laws should be revisited amid rising concern about women's personal safety.

"The Government can now change these laws, it's best that the women have it to protect themselves, but again everything is a weapon, car key, pots, kitchen grater. It's how you use it. so that is why women should get training"

Cowan said the majority of his clients are women, particularly those in their late 20s to early 30s. He explained that self-defence training focuses on strategy rather than just strength.

"For a woman, it's really important to know where to strike, where to kick and where to punch, that knowledge is important because it gives you a chance."

Still, Cowan further stressed that alertness is more critical than physical training."Vigilance is the key. Open your eyes, be aware that's it," he said. "You can't be walking on the road with your head down, on your phone, listening to music. You need to look at least 50 meters ahead. Vigilance gives you the edge. You can always turn back or change your route."

He added that he advises clients to assess their surroundings early and mentally prepare in case they need to defend themselves.

"Once you see someone approaching, you start selecting your target," he said. "Whether it's the throat, the groin, or kicking the knee, those target areas give you an advantage. If you take out the knee, you can run. It's like punching a car tyre, it gives you a chance to get away."

Cowan's final message to women is to stay fit, "fitness is everything, You need to know how to run!"