Letter from RCMP Officer

Issues of personal safety and security continue to capture our attention as well as the headlines. I recommend that all teenagers give considerable thought to educating themselves in basic self-defence. This training could be one of the most valuable experiences of a teenager's life. Much like learning a language, self-defence techniques must be practiced to be performed without hesitation. Learning self-defence is more than blocks and punches; it's learning to be assertive and confident. It also builds self-esteem and promotes self-discipline. Practice these techniques as part of your regular exercise program so that you may react quickly should the need arise.

The techniques Dr. Konzak teaches are intelligent, effective, and surprisingly gentle. Whether choosing to practice alone, with a friend, with a parent, or with a trained teacher, long-term practice is necessary in mastering techniques of self-defence. This book should serve as a useful practice guide for all teenagers who wish to learn self-defence on their own.

Parents have a responsibility to ensure the safety of their children. They can do this by making rules or leaving them with people they trust. At a young age, this is a manageable task; however, teenagers are exposed to a variety of dangers and risks of which parents are often not cognizant. Take the time to learn and practice these techniques with your children. Their knowledge of self-defence will give you the confidence that they will be able to defend themselves.

Constable David Hvidston
Royal Canadian Mounted Police
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