FAQ - FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

• What is self-defense?
• What is the difference between martial arts and self-defense?
• What is the best way to protect myself?
• What is the best self-defense system?
• Can I learn what I need to know from books and videos?
• Do I have to practice a lot to be effective?
• What about carrying a weapon like a gun or knife?
• How do I pick between all the choices of schools, books, and videos?

What is self-defense?

Self-defense is the protection of oneself, possessions, or home against violence or threatened violence with whatever force or means are reasonably necessary. Self-defense is often discussed as 90% mental attitude and awareness and 10% physical techniques, such as striking and kicking.

What is the difference between martial arts and self-defense?

Traditional martial arts is an art and sport that may have been effective in fighting centuries ago, but ill-suited to modern realities. Martial arts emphasizes forms or kata (the memorization and performance of a specific sequence of techniques) and perfect execution of techniques. Self-defense emphasizes awareness, de-escalation oral techniques, and if necessary, any physical means to stop the attacker and escape.

What is the best way to protect myself?

Primarily focus on the following:

• Awareness and prevention - 90% of avoiding violence and crime
• Mindsetting - mentally prepare and have a plan
• Training - learn physical techniques for unavoidable situations

What is the best self-defense system?

No one best system, all have their merits. And some systems will have conflicting philosophies to the same problem or attack. Just make sure the system is geared to what is likely to happen in your environment or reality, and trust your intuition on the best 'fit' to your temperament. If you want to go deeper, you may even want to learn more than one system to complement for weaknesses of another.

Can I learn what I need to know from books and videos?

Books and videos are a good complement to training and classes with a qualified instructor, but are no substitute. They will reinforce your training and introduce topics you may not have thought about and can ask your instructors.

Do I have to practice a lot to be effective?

Not necessarily. Just enough for the techniques to become automatic in response to an attack. Make the training realistic and make it count. After you can easily perform the techniques without thinking too much, then spend some time every couple weeks to maintain your skills.

What about carrying a weapon like a gun or knife?

Weapons are only effective if you have it with you, can draw it quickly, and you are prepared to use it. You must be trained to use them and store them safely when not in use. For most people, weapons are not necessary or recommended due to the risks and training involved.

How do I pick between all the choices of schools, books, and videos?

Being a good consumer means doing your research, asking good questions about reputation, effectiveness, background, satisfaction policy, reviews and opinions of people you trust.

What does your intuition tell you? Self-defense is simple, but not easy. If you are being pushed to learn an excessive number of techniques, you should stay away.

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