A perfect society would have no need for self-defense disciplines, but in an imperfect world, having some skills to protect oneself against various dangers is advantageous. Self-defense disciplines employ various techniques that enable people to defend their health and well-being.
There are many different ways people can defend themselves from potential aggressors. The disciplines of martial arts, boxing and even wrestling/grappling are some examples of such defense strategies. De-escalation and firearm training also may fall under the umbrella of self-defense preparation. The following are some self-defense disciplines that can help people gain confidence and skills, all the while protecting themselves.
Krav Maga
Developed for the Israeli Defense Forces in the 1940s, Krav Maga uses techniques derived from various martial arts, including judo and karate. It is known for a focus on real- world situations. Striking, grappling and ground fighting are hallmarks of this technique designed to quickly neutralize threats.
Judo
Judo is a Japanese discipline that is known to be one of the more gentle martial arts. It focuses on grappling and other close-range self-defense tactics that can derail attackers’ efforts to grab another person or subdue them, according to Defender Ring, a manufacturer of self-defense products. Karate
Many people are familiar with karate, which means “empty hand” in Japanese. Traditionally, the practice of karate teaches self-control and discipline. Spiritual development and self-mastery are parts of karate, which focuses on defense rather than offense.
Boxing
Boxing employs punches and footwork as means to self-defense. Boxing focuses on defensive skills, intense conditioning and powerful striking techniques. Boxing teaches a person to block the blow of an attacker and to actively defend oneself.
Aikido
Another form of marital arts, aikido practitioners employ various skills to immobilize joints and fend off their opponents. Aikido limits the amount of violence doled out, so a person stops an attack rather than fighting back. Aikido relies on timing and technique instead of strength and size.
Muay Thai
This is a Thai boxing technique, and some also refer to it as kickboxing. This form of martial arts uses close-combat actions that involve strikes, sweeps and various clinching techniques. Tiger Muay Thai says the discipline uses the entire body as a weapon. Individuals interested in developing self-defense skills can enroll in any number of training classes that can teach maneuvers to keep them safer on the streets.
