Being only 5 ft and little over 100 pounds (years ago), I trained for full contact karate and I was trained by men, some who were reluctant to attack full on and some pulled no punches (or kicks) just because I was female. I also was trained in self-defense. The training was repetitious so that it was an instantaneous response, no hesitation, also repetition of drills for accuracy and to overcome the fear of hurting someone. I was fortunate because the training included situational street fighting which is completely different than tournaments. Having said this, I can tell you that the element of surprise, no matter the skills, strength and determination gives the attacker a huge advantage. Though the person in the security video looks awkward in gait, overweight (or padded for disguise or protection), they are armed and well covered, Missy would have had few striking zones that would have been effective. The throat? She would have had to be in too close and this person was armed with a weapon. The knee? For a frontal attack, this was drilled into me, it takes little pressure to break a knee and brings the attacker down (same for the groin).
I agree with you 100% that it is worthwhile for women to take self-defense classes and be aware.
A few things can be learned from this horrible crime and possibly save someone's life. Take no chances with your safety. Drive around the building and if you are alone, wait for someone to enter a building or any area with you. Never assume a parked vehicle is empty (probably not important in Missy's case but worth mentioning).
Thank you for making that post. :goodpost:
