The present-day society harbours people with several intentions; some are out to make the world a better place, while others are not. Unfortunately, it’s often impossible to know if someone has good or bad intentions. As a result, protecting one’s self, family and friends has become a natural inclination. Nonetheless, protection requires preparation.
Training in self-defence skills and techniques comes in handy amid hostile situations like break-ins, assault and physical intimidation. Unfortunately, many people are not conversant with self-defence. Here are some important things you need to know about self-defence and why you should learn it.
What is Self-defence?
Self-defence, as the name suggests, is the act of defending yourself against harm. Several principles guide the approaches to self-defence.
Firstly, self-defence assumes that an individual acts to solely defend themselves or someone else against imminent danger. Therefore, the skills are not to be used to initiate violence.
Secondly, the techniques used against an attacker should be proportional to the threat. As a result, lethal techniques are often discouraged. Moreover, the training focuses on de-escalating situations, averting danger and quelling threats with the least amount of harm.
Thirdly, all self-defence instructors agree that the best approach to self-defence is avoiding an occasion which warrants its use. Therefore, where escape is possible, the recommendation is to cease the opportunity. Nonetheless, you can stand your ground if it’s paramount to defend yourself, another person or property.
Lastly, the execution of self-defence techniques should follow a reasonable approach. You should assess the situation, weigh the options and make a reasonable decision about whether self-defence is warranted.
Martial arts for Self-defence
Several martial arts styles are taught as self-defence approaches. However, learning all the styles is impossible since martial arts has a lot to offer. Nonetheless, individuals train in one or two styles to improve their abilities. Below are some of the best martial arts for self-defence.
Boxing
Boxing has always stood out as a powerful self-defence method. It’s popular because the tactics involved suit street fighting well. Moreover, boxing teaches a solid posture and speed while enhancing balance, hand-eye coordination, and general strength.
Krav Maga
Krav Maga originates from The Israeli defence Forces’ combat system. Trainees learn how to defend themselves against armed and unarmed attackers. Tactically, it’s a simple style to master despite the complex appearance. Moreover, movements in Krav Maga are primarily based on reflex and are easy to apply. As a result, anyone can learn the style regardless of their degree of fitness, strength, or size.
Muay Thai
Muay Thai is a form of kickboxing invented in Thailand and designed to use eight striking points; punches, kicks, elbows, and knee strikes. It’s excellent for self-defence since the movements involve multiple parts of the body.
Strikes in Muay Thai are powerful and sometimes lethal. However, practitioners are trained to neutralise their assailants with minimal harm since the objective is self-defence.
Importance of Self-defence
Aside from the skills, there are a lot of benefits you can enjoy from learning self-defence. These include:
Discipline
The training of self-defence techniques is centred around discipline. Training sessions involve mastering movements that require hours of rehearsal. Therefore, self-discipline is a requirement for any student since learning involves not only putting in the hours but also committing to the training and maintaining consistency.
Self-confidence
Many people lack confidence since they can’t stand up for themselves. Self-defence sessions offer learners the skills to not only stand up for themselves but also stand up for others. As a result, students gain self-confidence and have renewed self-esteem.
Physical Fitness
Physical conditioning forms an essential part in self-defence. Training involves regular exercises that build strength, improve endurance and enhance cardiovascular health. Furthermore, the mind-to-muscle connection is improved through the rehearsal of different defensive techniques. Finally, self-defence training refines reflexes and improves spatial awareness.
Discernment
One of the key skills taught in self-defence classes is discernment. Self-defence students are required to identify an imminent danger, assess the situation and make a decision to fight or take flight, all in a split second. The unique ability to execute all these tasks improves an individual’s overall power of discernment.
In conclusion, self-defence is a great skill to learn since it has a lot to offer. Therefore, take the bold step and learn from professional instructors. You never know when the skills will come in handy.