WestCoastGirl,
I used to be a juvenile correctional officer here in Virginia and I would highly recommend a self defense course. Mace or pepper spray is a pretty good idea but I have to agree with Allie_XO. You never know what can happen in a struggle. One tip I have. Its kind of hard because I'm not actually showing this to you but heres one thing you can do. If you get jumped from behind do what Allie_XO says(in terms of yelling out), rake his knees as you stomp on his feet while you elbow him in the stomach at the same time(your arm is upside down with your elbows tucked in thrusting back) It really does a job but its something that comes with lots of practice. You could compare it to learning a sport before you can use it in a game situation. I hope this helps
