« We give the bricks, the cement and the roof, then everyone can build their own house. » It is through this metaphor that Francis Coucou, teacher at Santone Judo, illustrates his way of teaching self-defense, which instills the techniques and attitudes to adopt to defend oneself, but also people in dangerous situations. . In Saintes, it is practiced by around ten female students every Tuesday. As much in the neighboring Chaniers club (mixed course on Wednesdays).
“Adopt the right attitudes”
Friday, November 22, it is not on a tatami mat that Francis Coucou and Michel Polette present the basics of self-defense but at the Camélia room, as part of the day dedicated to the fight against violence against women, included in the program of the Solidarity Festival (November 15-29).
At the end of the morning, for an hour, the two men introduced to the public, mainly middle school students, some basic notions and the philosophy of this combat technique. “Above all, we must avoid conflict,” says Michel Polette, of the Judo Club Chagnolais. We must learn to control ourselves, to adopt the right attitudes, while respecting self-defense. » All this is learned, like taking into account one’s environment, “by not running into problems”.
Types of attacker
Several types of attacker exist. “There is the known, in his close family circle but also in the sporting world,” explains Michel Polette. From now on, supervisors, in judo for example, are trained in the prevention and awareness of violence in sport, with the Colosses aux pieds d’église association. » Let us also mention the angry, violent aggressor, where we must favor the de-escalation technique “by demonstrating self-control and communication”.
Michel Polette, teacher at the Judo Club Chagnolais, shows how to protect yourself in the face of aggression.
Anne Lacaud
The opportunist, often accustomed to theft, knows how to spot his target. Another scenario is the sociopath who has no remorse or empathy and can be violent and manipulative. Finally, last types of aggressor, the pack with a leader and the terrorist. “In these cases, there is little else to do but run and hide. »
Adaptation permanente
If conflict is not avoided despite previous attempts, you must then know how to defend yourself. The two teachers invite the public to join them on stage for some exercises. “You have to be constantly adapting and not hesitate to use non-lethal accessories, handbags, umbrellas, street furniture to keep your attacker away. » Protect your head with your elbow, but also keep your distance. “A bit like in “Dirty Dancing”, where everyone has their own dance space, here, it’s the same, quotes Michel Polette to his disciples of the day. Being in motion is very important. »
Francis Coucou, teacher at Santone Judo, explains certain techniques to the public.
Anne Lacaud
And if the attacker manages to grab you, in this case, you must try to grab his wrist to force him as much as possible. “We teach different profiles, adolescents aged 15-16, as well as women in their forties. Everyone can learn it, insists Francis Coucou. To do this, you have to practice, repeat your scales to master your movements and your reactivity. We teach the keys, then, based on their own abilities, everyone adapts their practice to defend themselves. »
Information : www.lasantonejudo.fr et www.judochaniers.fr
