Martial Arts and the Fundamentals of Self-Defense

Studies show that a struggling economy yields a higher incident rate of violent crime and general lawlessness. That means you are more likely to find yourself in potentially explosive circumstances that can lead to injury or death. A lot of martial arts students, including both children and adults, think their training gives them an edge during such confrontations. In truth, it does. But, not in the way many students believe.

In this article, we'll explore the nature of violent crime in the context of how martial arts and self-defense converge. I'll describe the mental game and the danger of emotions. I'll also explain the core difference between defending yourself and fighting; many people think they're doing the former when they're actually doing the latter. Lastly, we'll discuss how you can respond constructively to a threat of violence while controlling your environment.

The Mental Game Of Self-Defense

Suppose an attacker is coming toward you. Your instinct is to protect yourself. If you have studied karate, kung fu, or similar styles, you might be tempted to respond physically. Unfortunately, doing so can result in injury, death, or criminal charges in the event that you overreact and cause excessive harm to your attacker. This is the reason it is critical that you are mentally prepared to respond appropriately to a confrontation.

Your mindset plays a key role in remaining safe during a potentially violent situation. In fact, the manner in which you process your circumstances and calculate a response may represent the largest potential threat to your safety. Too often, emotions get in the way and lead to disastrous consequences.

Understanding The Danger Of Emotions

Anger and fear do more to escalate a confrontation than any other response. Emotions are the antithesis of logic. They often obfuscate the reality of a given threat, concealing possible paths toward a non-violent resolution.

It's worth noting that few crimes of aggression (i.e. robbery, vandalism, etc.) are done with the goal of fighting. When someone robs you, they seldom want to fight. Martial arts students, prompted by fear or pride, will often react physically to an aggressive crime, which escalates the threat. It prompts a violent response from the robber or would-be attacker.

The Difference Between Fighting And Self-Defense

People fight for many reasons, though most of them can be categorized according to two primary triggers: to attain something or protect something. This can extend to private property, self-esteem, pride, or a vague sense of honor. These things have nothing to do with protecting yourself from physical harm.

Self-defense represents any action you take in order to protect your person. The problem is, many martial arts schools unwittingly encourage their students to use the style they are learning to "protect themselves" from criminals. There is a fine line between defending yourself from physical harm (a level to which few crimes need to escalate) and fighting. The former is defined by a preservation of personal safety. The latter represents combat.

A Constructive Response To A Threat Of Violence

First, shed your fear and anger. A threat of violence (for example, a firearm pointed at your chest) does not represent violence. Reacting to the threat because you are fearful or angry can lead to injury or death.

Second, don't challenge the attacker unless it is likely that you are going to be harmed. If he is demanding your wallet, give it to him. If he wants your car, provide the keys. Regardless of how accomplished you are at aikido, Taekwondo, or judo, it is a rare situation that justifies using your martial arts as self-defense.

Third, provide your attacker with an exit strategy. If he feels cornered with no way out, he will react violently, often with deadly force.

There is a time and place for using martial arts as a tool for self-defense. However, the key to remaining safe in potentially violent circumstances is to recognize that such occasions are rare.