Self Defense Training Ideas

Self defense training should be a regular practice for anyone doing martial arts to defend themselves. Training does not just mean practicing endless techniques, but it does mean acquiring habits that will prepare you for violence in your daily life.

This page presents ideas on self defense training, not self defense techniques.

Click here for information on self defense techniques.

Awareness

Violence can break out when you least expect it. However, there are certain things that you can do to decrease the chances of it occurring.

Make it a habit to avoid situations or environments where violence is more likely to occur. Some situations to avoid are: alley-way

parking your car in an area with very little human traffic, especially if you need to get to your car at night.

going down dark, quiet streets and alleys, especially at night.

being around groups of intoxicated people, whether they are using alcohol or drugs.

being by yourself in situations that you feel may be unsafe.

Planning and thinking ahead is the key to avoiding potentially dangerous situations.

Weapons around you

As mentioned on the self defense techniques page, one of the best ways to gain the advantage in a self defense situation is to grab an object to use as a weapon.

Where ever you find yourself, look around for what could be used as a weapon should violence break out. Everyday objects that could be used to inflict pain are a chair, pen, drinking glass, bottle, fork, knife, tree branch, hammer, umbrella and many others.

It is a good idea to practice using (or at least think about how you would use) everyday objects as a weapon.

Know your exits

In a violent encounter, you may be forced to inflict pain and then escape quickly. To aid the speed of your escape (and of the people who have accompanied you) try to make a quick mental note of exits to any room or building that you are in.

If the option is there, for example in a restaurant, try to be seated close the exit.

Training outside your training hall

The chances of you encountering violence in a spacious environment, like your training hall, is not very high. You may have to defend yourself in a confined space (a stair well, elevator) or a crowded space (party, bar or night club).

As part of your self defense training, it is important to realistically train in a confined space or a simulated crowded environment.

Wear protective equipment and practice effective self defense techniques on a good training partner.

Do not be obsessed

Many of the self defense training ideas on this page comes down to being aware of your environment. As you practice being aware of your environment it will become a habit.

Although, violence can occur at any time, do not become obsessed with it and to live your life in fear. Do your best and enjoy your martial arts training, knowing that you have prepared well should you have to defend yourself.

Return from Self Defense Training Page to Home Page