Always go to the Funeral (Martial Arts Studio Blog)

By the end of this article, you should have a good understanding of both disciplines and be able
to decide what type of training is best suited for you and your family.. Let's get started!

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What are the differences between self-defense and martial arts?

When it comes to self-defense and martial arts, understanding the differences between the two
is key to finding what works best for you. While the two terms are often interchanged, they
represent two very distinct concepts.

Self-Defense Training
At a basic level, self-defense training focuses on avoiding helping you to avoid danger and
defending yourself without the use of force... at first. Self-defense training includes techniques
such as (1) situational awareness.. (2) de-escalation tactics... and (3) physical countermeasures
like blocking and evasive maneuvers. It is more about DEFENSE. Using your body in strategic
ways to fend off an attacker when force is necessary.

Martial Arts Training
Martial arts training, on the other hand, is geared more towards the fight. Like learning specific
techniques for combat... often for sport or competition. It also involves greater physical
conditioning as well as muscle memory drills to help practitioners execute their techniques with
precision and speed. Overall, martial arts training seeks out physical contact and is more
geared towards developing a person’s physical prowess in order to beat an opponent.

It's important to note that while there are differences between self-defense and martial arts
training, both styles focus mainly on personal safety. The primary difference lies in their goals...
self-defense training focuses more on avoiding the fight while martial arts training focuses on
what to do when fighting.

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So how is self-defense and martial arts training similar?

You might be asking yourself, how does martial arts relate to self-defense? While there are
obvious physical similarities. Both require you to learn...

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Develop more techniques. In martial arts, the focus is often more on technique than
pure strength. Learning techniques such as leverage and body position can give you
an edge in self-defense.
Move better. Martial artists practice evasive movement techniques – like dodging and
weaving – to stay out of their opponent's reach or strike from a better angle. You can
use these same skills in self-defense for quick escapes or even counterattacks.
Develop timing. Timing – knowing when to dodge, block or strike your enemy – is
important in martial arts. If you can get the timing right, it can help you use minimal
energy while defending yourself more effectively.
Understand energy. There's more than just physical energy at work in martial arts. By
understanding and harnessing your mental energy – namely focus, determination and
fearlessness – you too, will become a force to be reckoned with in any self-defense
situation.

Define the differences between self-defense and martial arts.
Explore what makes them similar and how those commonalities allow us to benefit from both types of training.
Discuss what training is best for you.

● Basics of kicking and punching.
● How to recognize (be aware) and assess a threat.
● Target parts of the body.
● Confident mindset

At the end of the day, your self-defense skills will improve dramatically if you combine them with
one or more martial arts disciplines.

SPECIAL NOTE on Self-Defense vs. Martial Arts Training for Women
While martial arts training is for everyone, 85% of the people who seek out training are men.
Why? Women tend to avoid conflict... especially physical combat. And martial arts training does
include sparring, fighting and close proximity.

So, self-defense classes are a good option for women who aren’t comfortable with the up-close
physical contact and fighting techniques of the martial arts. They will empower you. Get you in
that confident (and positive mindset). And in time could lead to wanting more... like the greater
self-defense skill set learned with martial arts training.

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In Conclusion...

Both self-defense classes and martial arts training will give you the skill set and confidence you
need to defend yourself and your family. When it comes to choosing which path to take, well it
simply comes down to choice (and maybe, time). There is no wrong answer... other than not
training at all.

You're searching for a way to ensure your own safety and that of your loved ones. You want to
learn how to defend yourself, but you don't know where to start. Do you take self-defense
classes or train in the martial arts? Good question. It can be difficult to determine the differences
between these two disciplines, as they share many common traits.

So, let’s take a moment and...

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One of the BIG similarities between self-defense and martial arts training is they build
self-confidence.

In Self-defense, learning how to (1) identify potential attackers, (2) be aware of your
surroundings/possible dangerous situations (3) employ de-escalation techniques and (4) use
basic physical techniques to defend yourself, will not only build confidence but also help instill a
sense of personal safety that will serve you for the rest of your life.

With the Martial Arts, having (1) an arsenal of techniques, (2) developed danger instincts, and
(3) combat training, will help you to trust yourself to make quick, effective decisions in any
situation. Fear will not rule you.

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Which type of training is better for me?

Well, that honestly depends on what you want/need. If you’re simply looking to keep yourself
safe while walking home from class, or protect your family while on vacation, then taking a basic
Self-defense class (seminar) may be all that you need.

But if you’re looking to take protecting yourself to a deeper/more effective level, then martial arts
may be the best choice. Studying the martial arts will help you to:

Self Defense Classes VS. Martial Arts Training
By Sensei La France (5.11.23)