Self Defense Tips From Krav Maga Expert Jarrett Arthur

Choosing the Right Self-Defense Class

Did the statistics I mentioned convince you to learn more about self-defense? Super! There are loads of options out there when it comes to classes, and Arthur gave us the pros and cons for some of the most popular options.

Traditional Martial Arts
Traditional martial arts such as Tae Kwon Do, Karate, Kung Fu, and Hap Ki Do are often thought of as self-defense systems, but it’s important not to assume that a dojo will offer practical, effective and realistic self-defense. Martial arts are, after all, an art form, and most often focus on aesthetic quality over function.

Pros

Ease of training: You can easily find dojos in towns and cities across the US.

Tradition and art: It’s very cool to practice moves that were created thousands of years ago. The techniques are beautiful to both watch and execute.

Sport and rank: If you are looking for a clear ranking system (belt colors) and the opportunity to compete, then traditional martial arts is the way to go.

Cons

Time commitment: Can you use martial arts to defend yourself? Yes. But competency takes a long time, and a lot of training hours.

Practicality: Most traditional martial arts techniques are not hugely effective for women in life-threatening situations. Think you’ll be able to trip, flip, throw or pressure-point an attacker into submission? Think again.

Reputability: With much access comes many impostors. There are so many governing organizations and different schools of thought that it’s hard to know for sure whether you are training at a reputable location.

Boxing/Kickboxing

With the rise in popularity of boxing and kickboxing classes, many women choose to take these classes for fitness and function.

Pros

Fitness: There really is no better workout than boxing and kickboxing classes. You will sweat. A lot.

Hitting Stuff: What’s more fun than hitting things? It’s a great stress reliever and so much fun!

Practicality: Knowing how to throw a strong punch and kick is one of the best cornerstone skills of self-defense.

Cons

Instructor Training: Many boxing/kickboxing “instructors” have minimal one- or two-day certifications, and in truth, don’t really know themselves how to strike effectively.

False Security: Jabbing the air in cardio kickboxing class is way better than doing nothing at all, but it’s not really going to prepare you for a fight.

Missing Pieces: There are many self-defense situations that can’t simply be punched out of. Getting choked, bear-hugged, dragged by your hair and tackled are just a few.

Reality-Based Self-Defense Training

Reality-based self-defense training systems such as Krav Maga and IMPACT are in a league of their own when it comes to self-defense. It’s not pretty, it’s not peaceful, and it’s not for women who are looking for a fun, social workout. It’s for women who want to learn self-defense that will be realistic, practical and effective at surviving a violent assault.

Pros

Short time commitment: These systems are no-nonsense and to the point. They are easy to learn and easy to execute. Go in, learn, leave well-equipped. That’s it.

Empowering: Take a reality-based self-defense class and you will unearth inner power and confidence you had no idea was there. Learning HOW to survive an assault and knowing that you CAN survive an assault are truly transformative experiences.

Realistic: Let’s face it. Women will likely be at a huge disadvantage in terms of size, strength, weight, intensity and state of readiness. These systems teach you how to level the playing field.

Cons

Anti-Comfort Zone: Assault is terrifying, and these classes will not sugar-coat reality. You’ll be nervous, uncomfortable and pushed, but all for good reasons.

Muscle Soreness: Personally, this isn’t a con, but it might be to some. Reputable schools will insist on safety, but expect a bruise or two and muscle soreness.

Isolated Locations: It’s tricky to find reputable self-defense schools, especially in suburban and rural areas.