This video was the result of testing various scenarios involving getting mugged at an ATM Machine. ATM machines will eventually become ancient artifacts, perhaps they are such when you read this. However, the scenario provided great training in universal self defense skills such as de-escelation or how to fight in chaotic sparring where the variables are unknown (level of aggression, number of opponents, potential weapons, etc), the full video sharing all the scenarios can be found on Youtube, simply search something along the lines of “Zen-Dragon ATM scenarios”. The embedded video shares an isolated moment from that day, where I ended up yelling out help and “somebody call the cops” (luckily in this case, none of my neighbours did). Afterwards we had a discussion of pros and cons of doing so.

Generally speaking I think drawing attention by yelling out for help or something similar is a good tactic, but it’s not without risk and depends on the situation, here’s 3 reasons to do so:

1 While it can provoke the attacker, it can also deter him from continuing, as he may be worried getting caught.

2 It signals to witnesses that you’re just defending youtself not the perpetrater.

3. Police may show and catch the attacker.