Brooklyn Martial Artist's Viral Self-Defense Tips Empower Women

A Brooklyn-based martial arts expert, known online as Crystal, is gaining widespread attention for her practical self-defense tips shared through viral social media videos. With a following of half a million, Crystal aims to empower women, particularly in New York City, to feel safer in public spaces.

Crystal, 34, who has trained in Muay Thai, Jeet Kune Do, Kali weapons, and boxing, emphasizes the distinction between martial arts as a discipline and self-defense as a street necessity. "Self-defense is for the streets. It's real. There are no rules in life-or-death situations," she told The Post. Her recent viral video, which has garnered nearly 15 million views, showcases her approach to personal safety.

Her online presence and teachings come at a time of increased concern over crimes against women in New York City, citing incidents such as street assaults and fatal stabbings. Crystal, a survivor of abuse and harassment, states her primary goal is to help others, especially women, understand the importance of awareness and preparedness.

"Self-defense starts with being prepared. The more ready and aware you are every time you leave the house, the better your chances are at avoiding potentially dangerous situations," Crystal advised. She encourages heightened sensory awareness, urging people to observe their surroundings and listen for anything unusual, rather than being engrossed in phones or music.

When confronted, Crystal suggests creating distance by holding arms out, loudly stating, "Stop! Stay back! Do not come close to me!" If an aggressor persists, she advises creating a distraction and escaping. She also points to everyday items like bags, water bottles, or even accessories like hairpins as potential tools for defense.

"If all you have is a water bottle, your high heels, a jacket, a book, a pen, a key or a hairpin, use that thing to save your life," she stated. In critical situations, her advice includes striking vulnerable areas and running, such as "Kick them in the b—s and run. Stomp their toes and run. Jab them in the eyes and run. Punch them in the throat and run."

Crystal revealed that her journey into martial arts during the pandemic significantly impacted her confidence, helping her overcome anxiety and past trauma. She described her past struggles with low self-worth and body dysmorphia, crediting her martial arts training with a renewed sense of empowerment and self-assurance.

She hopes her approach, which includes stylish attire in her videos, challenges the notion that femininity and combat skills are mutually exclusive. "It's like a fashionable 'f- -k you' to the notion that you can't be girly and know how to throw a serious punch or kick some butt at the same time," Crystal said. "I want to be that example for women."