Harry Houdini was famous for his escape acts. Straightjackets and locked cages were no problem. Although they aren’t quite that skilled, the girls of Cannon Falls High School have improved their escaping abilities.

For the past two weeks, CFHS freshman and sophomore girls have been learning how to defend themselves. Pam Rathbun led the self-defense class, and Brian Lund helped for one day. Rathbun has been leading the class for multiple years, and she believes the skills learned will be helpful in a real situation. Lund says “even practicing with friends will be be beneficial.” Continuing, he explains how “knowing a little is better than knowing nothing.”

The students learned basic motions, from attacks to blocks. They were introduced to new defense maneuvers, and as the time progressed, the moves became more difficult. Practicing with each other, the girls were allowed to eventually flip their friends. Although they were instructed to be careful, some took it a little too seriously. Magdalena Heynicke discovered her partner’s strength when she ended up with a concussion. Having their necks and wrists grabbed, being sat on, and being pushed up against a wall are just a few scenarios the girls can now escape from. On the last day, Lund “attacked” the girls, and they tried out the moves they had learned. Confidence levels were boosted as the escapees discovered they knew what to do.

Escaping straightjackets will have to wait, but for now, CFHS girls will know what to do in other situations.