Self DefenceHo-sin-sul
Practical self-defence applications against grabs, chokes, bear hugs, and weapon threats. Click any technique to expand the defence principle and step-by-step execution.
Ho-sin-sul applies Taekwon-Do principles to real-world threats. The core principles: move off the line of attack, control the weapon or limb, counter-strike decisively. Moving into a grab rather than pulling away is a recurring theme — it eliminates the opponent's leverage.
Escapes from wrist grabs. The core principle: always rotate toward the opponent's thumb — the weakest point of any grip. Rotation combined with body movement produces escape without strength. A counter-attack must follow immediately to prevent re-engagement.
Defences against grabs to the lapel, collar, or clothing. Trapping the grabbing hand before releasing it prevents re-grabbing and creates control. Step into the opponent to eliminate the leverage of their pull.
Releases from chokes and headlocks. Time is critical — a choke can cause unconsciousness in seconds. The immediate priorities are: protect the airway, disrupt the opponent's balance, and release the grip. Counter-attacks must be immediate and decisive.
Defences against bear hugs from the front and rear, with arms pinned and free. When arms are pinned, immediately attack with available weapons — head, feet, and hips. When arms are free, use them to attack vulnerable targets before the opponent tightens their grip.
Defences against grabs to the hair, back of the neck, or shoulder. The instinct to pull away increases pain and the opponent's control. Counter-intuitively, moving into the grab eliminates the lever being used against you.
Throwing and takedown techniques used to bring the opponent to the ground decisively. In ITF Taekwon-Do, throws are always combined with strikes — a throw without a follow-up leaves the practitioner vulnerable. The force of the ground itself becomes the finishing strike.
Defences against armed attackers. The first principle is always to get off the line of the weapon's path. Control of the weapon hand comes before any counter-attack. Disarming is the goal — but a decisive counter-strike may need to come first to create the opportunity.