Multiple Attackers

Training for self-defense training against multiple attackers

• Multiple heavy bag drill. Set up at least three different sized hanging heavy bags to practice smoothly moving from one to the other, striking them without looking directly at them, and not getting hit by them as they swing. Try to keep all the bags in view without focusing on one bag.
• Evasion drill. Have people throw soft objects at you from various directions. Evading a thrown object teaches one to "take in" the whole space. If you look the object coming at you, it will hit you. Do not "tunnel" you vision, "funnel" it. When you spread your vision, you may compare the speed of the incoming object to the stationary objects in the area.
• Three-on-one grip breaking drill. Knowledge of breaking various grips, such as clothing, hair, or wrist grips, is a prerequisite. Have two or more attackers grab you, moving at a slow to moderate pace. Move constantly and economically, breaking grips with as little struggle as possible. Use splitting (stepping between assailants), screening (using one assailant to block another), and redirecting (deflecting one assailant into another assailant or a solid object).
• Redirection drill. Redirect attacker who attempts to grab your legs, tackle you, or pin you against a wall. Start slowly and progressively pick up speed.
• Two-on-one blocking drill. Stand in one spot so you are forced to block and not evade. Two attackers stand at 45-degree angles in front and throw strikes and kicks.
• Three-on-one scenarios. Three attackers in full protective equipment attack good guy. Try to attack vital targets without getting pummeled or held down and stomped.
• Ground fighting. Although you should avoid going to the ground with multiple attackers, it may happen. Therefore, you should train in multiple attacker defenses while you are on the ground and attackers are standing.
• Environmental changes. Self-defense situation occur under all types of environmental conditions, such as wet, cold, low light, no light, strobe lights, different color lights, and intermittent bright lights. To simulate these conditions, use blindfolds, water on floor, or changing light conditions.
• Fighting with injury. You will get hit in a multiple attacker attack and will probably be injured in some way. To simulate injuries, use an eye patch, tie and arm to belt, or wear a leg weight.