Have you ever thought about taking self-defense classes but you weren’t sure where or how to start? Well, we’re here to help because we will be breaking down some tips for learning self-defense and the important martial arts involved.
Self-Defense Classes
First up from these tips for learning self-defense is to sign up for some self-defense classes and consistently attend them. This might seem obvious, but instructional videos online or taking one or two classes alone aren’t going to cut it.
It takes instruction from an expert and repeated in-person practice to learn self-defense moves well enough that you can effectively use them if you ever need to. The goal is to get enough practice that the moves come to you from muscle memory.
There are also important lessons to learn from self-defense classes that go beyond physical moves.
Concepts related to avoiding dangerous scenarios entirely or ending dangerous scenarios without needing physical defense are as equally important to learn, and a good self-defense instructor will teach you these.
Martial Arts
Next on this list of tips for learning self-defense, it’s a good idea to study a martial art outside of your self-defense classes.
Self-defense classes will teach you some of the most effective moves from a variety of martial arts, like how to throw brutal Muay Thai knees, but there likely won’t be enough time in class to go in-depth in a specific area.
Learning other martial arts outside of self-defense classes will reinforce the skills you’re learning and give you a boost in important areas like striking or grappling.
Filipino Martial Arts
The most effective tools for defending yourself from someone who is bigger, stronger or a more experienced fighter than you are weapons.
Whether it’s knives or blunt objects, weapons level the playing field and are important to know how to use if you want to protect yourself from someone attempting to harm you.
Self-defense classes will undoubtedly go over weapons, but if you want extra experience learning how to use and protect yourself from weapons then you should consider taking Filipino martial arts classes.
Filipino martial arts, as the name suggests, originated in the Philippines and is based around life-threatening scenarios. This includes weapon fighting, and the Filipino weapons style called Arnis or Kali is the one to study, specifically.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Another martial art to consider studying from this list of tips for learning self-defense is Brazilian jiu-jitsu.
Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ) is based around grappling, ground fighting and using technique rather than strength to subdue someone bigger or stronger than you.
You’ll learn the fundamentals to this martial art in self-defense classes but taking outside BJJ classes will help you improve your self-defense game significantly.
Imagine knowing how to get someone twice your size off you while you’re on the ground, and knowing how to put someone twice as strong as you into a position where you can choke them unconscious or dislocate their joints.
These are not exaggerations when it comes to BJJ and you can learn extremely effective techniques in a short amount of time.
