Seniors citizens and those with disabilities can be easy targets for would-be attackers. But a different spin on martial arts techniques is changing that notion. Cane-Fu is the technique and the tool is, you guessed it, a cane. Our Iris St. Meran has more on how this form of self defense is giving people new confidence.

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NEW HARTFORD, N.Y. -- Using a cane can make anyone appear vulnerable, but a martial arts instructor in New Hartford is showing how it can be valuable when it comes to self defense.

"Cane Fu is the use of a cane as a defensive tool, not just a medical support or aid," said American Martial Arts Institute Grand Master Clifford Crandall.

If it sounds a lot like the martial arts technique Kung Fu, that's no coincidence. It uses movements that are similar to the centuries-old practice.

Crandall says anyone can learn, even a reporter with no martial arts experience. The techniques can be used standing or sitting in a wheel chair.

"There are cane clasps for your wheelchair, you can bring that cane off immediately. You can block that person," Crandall said. "You can move them to the side, you can actually use the wheelchair as part of your defensive structure."

With this course, the cane becomes more than a crutch. The instructor says it's an ideal tool in self-defense and can be taken anywhere. It also gives people who rely on it for mobility a new sense of security. Seniors at the Masonic Care Community learned about it this week.

Community Life Director Jay Snow said, "It helps increase their balance, which will decrease falls, increases their strength, their flexibility, improves their overall self confidence and increase their overall independence."

Crandall says that is exactly why he started teaching the seminar two years ago.

"The person assaulting somebody with a disability or a senior in our culture is assuming they can't do anything. One of the greatest advantages of this knowledge that we give them is surprise. They're going to be able to do something," said Crandall.

Something that many never thought possible, until now.

To learn more about this seminar, visit www.securelivingonline.blogspot.com.