How to Defend Yourself in a Fight

Having studied Martial Arts for almost 40 years now makes me uniquely qualified for this subject. Most instructors will tell you that in order to defend yourself in a fight you must train long and hard. You have to know several methods and learn then until they are second nature to you. When you are confronted by an attacker you must strike like lightning and spare no mercy on your assailant. It all sounds good doesn't it, well I haven't been in a fight in 35 years.

Because I have learned to predict, anticipate and vacate the area of any conflicts. This method is far more valuable than training for a fight and not backing down when accosted. You do not have to fight, what would it prove if a person could win every fight from every person who wanted to start one with you. There are some very easy ways to avoid being confronted. For women try not to dress and look like a target, many women I have taught martial arts to tend to think its their right to dress provocatively. The wear high heal shoes and fashions that make them very vulnerable to any attacker and attract attention.

If you avoid this behavior and tendency you will be less likely to be confronted. Try not to look like a target for thugs and rip off artists. Try to use common sense, stay out of areas that you know you could get into trouble. If you have to work in an area that is full of rip-offs and thief's think about what is more important your life or your job. I am serious, I have terminated my employment from several places because I didn't feel safe coming or going to work. If you have a good job that you enjoy but have to drive through the bad part of town and people are getting car jacked and robbed, I would really get my priorities straight. If you do not mind living in fear every day you can continue but I will not live in fear everyday. Your best self defense is self awareness and being aware of your surroundings. The next best thing is to run. I would rather be called a coward than have to use my 35 years of training to defend myself against some teenage thugs.