I'm kind of a Self Defense nut. The two best things you can do if you live in a questionable area(other than move) is situational awareness, and make yourself undesirable to those that would harm you. Stay in the light, stay aware, and stay in the public eye. No dark alleys. Carry pepper spray and possibly a high intensity flashlight....I'm not talking a maglight (while the C/D cell lights are good for beating someone, they are unwiedly). Check into Fox Labs for peperspray and Surefire for bright lights. Working out will make you stronger but in a fight if you don't know how to use it, how is going to help. Self defence classes should be a must. Know how to protect yourself.
clipse