If you’ve ever found it difficult to justify your shoe collection, this could give you comfort in your investments. Forget trampolining, TRX or hot yoga – the latest fitness trend is using your heels as a weapon of self-defence against any attackers. The movement, reported in the New York Times, is the brainchild of Avital Zeisler – a former ballerina and assault victim. Zeisler regularly teaches hand-to-hand combat, and decided to take the opportunity to show women how to use their footwear as a step in self-defence. Taking inspiration from LA, personal trainer Jennifer Cassetta who adopts similar moves with her own clients said: “Women feel very empowered wearing heels. I love heels. I love the way my legs look in them. But most women can barely walk in them, let alone run. If you can’t run away, you better know how to fight off an attacker. You have to be prepared at all times, no matter what you’re wearing, no matter how tall you are.” Zeisler also offers free workshops in self-defence to high school students, warning them that heels can be the perfect distraction in breaking contact, warding off attacks or helping create the opportunity to break away: “The objective is to disrupt the attacker’s thought process — even just to get him to blink.” Images: New York Times Interseted in learning more ways to stay safe? Check out the Her.ie six guide process to Krav Maga – which focuses on fast and natural responses to the threats people are likely to face from an attacker. As opposed to basing the skills on strength, students are taught the importance of being aware and instinctive to their surroundings. But in the meantime, it’s good to know your choice in footwear could help you ward off an attacker, even if you don’t feel like you can break free.