Self defence

There seems to be a lot of debate regarding the distinction between self-defence and martial arts. Many people think they are the same thing. Today I would like to introduce my approach to self-defence.

I like to take a broad approach to self-defence. Limiting self-defence principles to violent conflict neglects some of the most prevalent dangers to our lives and welfare. Depending on geographical, occupational and various other factors, the average person may probably only have to physically defend themselves against violent encounter a couple of times, if ever. More prevalent dangers include traffic incidents, disease and recently natural disasters. Therefore any self-defence program should involve the topics of awareness, diet, healthy lifestyle, alcohol and drug usage, swimming lessons (for children), first aid and disaster preparation.

From a violent conflict perspective, I advocate the following steps:

1.  Avoid danger

2.  Escape danger

3.  Fight your way out of danger.

Avoiding danger is the first and most important stage, yet probably the most neglected in martial art classes. Awareness and a common sense approach are required. Surprise is the single most decisive element in any conflict. The counter to surprise is awareness.

Simple rules include not walking alone in rough neighbourhoods, exercising caution in parks and car parking areas, not getting intoxicated in public, avoiding intoxicated people, etc. The Cooper colour codes are a universally accepted approach to awareness.
http://www.selfdefenseresource.com/general/articles/awareness-color-codes.php

Hakkoryu jujutsu summarises an effective process of avoiding succinctly: don’t challenge, don’t oppose, don’t injure. Following these simple rules will remove the grounds for most testosterone-based conflicts. A genuine, warm smile should be the first line of defence. Being considerate towards others is not only good practise for all human relations and success in life, it will prevent the cause for conflict. I suggest spending some time considering the root causes of most conflict and making a conscious effort to avoid those causes.

Escaping danger can be broadly divided in to two categories: running and negotiating. This stage represents the interview stage for both the attacker and defender. If an attacker has a pure intention to harm, he is unlikely to spend any or much time in this stage, but will rather employ a surprise attack. My suggestion in this stage is to control your ego. If the opportunity arises – or can be created – run. If this is not possible, try to talk your way out of the situation. While negotiating, try to appear passive and cooperative, but continually assess whether it is likely that you will be successful at negotiating your way out. If you believe a conflict is not likely to be avoided, I advocate taking the initiative and moving into the final stage before the attacker does.

Depending on the circumstances, your confidence in your ability to handle the situation etc, I suggest pre-emptive strike if a conflict is unavoidable. The first strike to land will generally decide the outcome of an encounter. This is the stage in which most martial art training is concerned with. Advanced martial artists may still be able to avoid violence, but I take a cautious approach. I want to escape before I am caught by surprise by weapons or ambushed by other attackers. My approach once I have determined that I must fight is: knock out, choke out or get out. This approach will not suit everyone, but I don’t want to take chances with my life and welfare.

The primary goal of self-defence is avoidance of danger, closely followed by escaping danger. The goal of combat sports is to defeat the opponent. The goal of martial arts is a fulfilling and positive life. These three arenas have a great deal of overlap, but are essentially different entities and should be considered as such.

Which are you training for?