A Connecticut woman who survived a terrifying encounter told News 12 she encourages all women to be prepared if they are caught in a vulnerable situation.
Kimberly Bedoya takes a Krav Maga class at Breakthrough Fitness in Stamford, Conn., an Israeli martial art used by many for self-defense.
In 2023, while driving in Trumbull, Bedoya spilled hot coffee and jumped out of his car.
After getting out, she drops her phone and notices a man approaching from a distance.
“I'm just reaching for my phone. He knew I was alone. He was like, 'Girl, do you need some help?'” I'm like, “No, I'm very clear.” I'm like, “No, it's okay.” The car was open and he came up behind me with his arms and hands. I was like, “Oh! “I thought. ” Bedoya recalls.
Bedoya didn't have time to think, and says the training helped him decide on his next move.
“As soon as the car door closed, I kicked him in the groin, kicked him in the stomach, and pushed him down. I got in the car, literally did a U-turn, turned around him, and drove away.”
“We put people in situations where they were like, 'What's going to happen?' Techniques just fly away from you until the threat hits the ground or runs away. She beats this guy. I absolutely beat this guy,” says Tom Basha of Breakthrough Fitness.
Bedoya says that before taking the class, she wouldn't have had the confidence to fend someone off. She said the encounter proved the importance of mental and physical training.
“There was a lot to learn, but what I learned was enough to keep me out of trouble and ultimately get me home safely,” Bedoya says.
Basha says not all situations require fighting back. He first teaches his students that if they feel they are in danger, they should leave the area as much as possible.
