Groin Kicks: Perhaps They’re Not the Kryptonite You Were Hoping For.

 

Posted by ADAM CARTER on AUG 12, 2024

Groin Kicks: Perhaps They’re Not the Kryptonite You Were Hoping For.

(Approx 2 minute read)

A recent comment proudly shared stated that he would use a ‘kingeri’ – a kick to the groin – to “concentrate his attention” in a self-defense situation, apparently his goto technique.

Many self-defense courses, especially for women, often start with this technique. However, they’re not men’s kryptonite, and while it can be debilitating in theory, the reality is far more complex.

The groin is a sensitive target, and a well-placed kick can be devastating. A blow to the groin can result in pain, shock, nausea, vomiting, unconsciousness, and difficulty breathing.

But here’s the catch: real-world self-defense is rarely as neat and predictable as it might seem in the dojo. The problems with relying on a kick to the groin as a primary defense far outweigh the potential benefits.

Kicks to the groin are obviously very effective when they land, but they are not the guaranteed instant fight winners which they are sometimes portrayed as.

First, there’s the issue of accuracy. Under the stress of a real altercation, aiming a precise strike to such a small and specific target becomes exceedingly difficult, especially if your opponent is moving unpredictably or is under the influence of alcohol, or any kind of street pharmaceuticals.

Second, the effectiveness of a groin kick can vary depending on factors like the angle of the strike, the opponent’s pain tolerance, adrenaline levels, the shoes and clothing worn, and the environment. It’s not a guaranteed fight-stopper; it should not be a benchmark technique, but rather a technique of opportunity.

Third, and perhaps most importantly, focusing on a single technique like this can limit your awareness of the broader situation. Self-defense requires adaptability and the ability to respond to a range of threats. It’s great to have this in your repertoire, but not to rely on it as a “silver bullet” technique.

Groin strikes are rarely fight-enders by themselves, although of course, it can happen. No pain-based technique is 100% effective. People have different tolerances, adrenaline is powerful stuff, and there may be other substances involved.

With that in mind, the more important elements of a groin strike (and any other pain-focused technique) are that most people are not expecting them. They can produce a reaction that opens the person up to further attack.

An untrained person defending a groin strike is going to close their knees, drop their hands, and stick their chin forward while throwing their hips back. All of those provide space, time, and openings for a retaliatory strike.

Self-defense should emphasize practical, versatile techniques that can be applied in a variety of situations, rather than getting caught up in theoretical solutions that might not hold up under real-world pressure.

In the end, self-defense is about survival, it’s about what works. And that’s the mindset we should all strive to cultivate.

Before anyone else makes the comment; “re-stomp the groin”. It’s just another tool in the toolbox.

AC