(Approx 2 minute read)

A comment on one of my articles, which often inspire me to write another (thank you), stated; (expletive removed) “**** self-defense. I teach people to fight.”
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Is this instructor right? After all you are learning a combat art not playing a game.
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Much of what is considered modern karate should not be labelled as self-defense. Why? Because it was not designed to be. And often this type of training can mislead people into believing that they can protect themselves effortlessly, without being hurt or injured.
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For any martial art to be effective for self-defense, training must show a level of realism. Without this, it can lead to complacency and overconfidence in abilities.
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However, we always teach that fighting is always the last answer to a problem. The martial arts, after all, is the art of not fighting. The paradox.
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But this instructor actually insists that he teach’s people to fight first.
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For all the importance we place on learning how to fight and defend ourselves, the martial arts should at their core, teach that it is best not to get into a fight. Having the ability to swallow your pride and not engage in the first place is usually the best and preferred option.
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A street fight and a sparring or competitive match have very little in common. In a real fight, there are NO rules. You never know what your opponent is capable of doing, or whether they’re armed, or whether street fighting is part of their “day-job”.
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Imagine a scenario where you enter a street fight, and are able to overcome your opponent because of your skill, to the point of him being a bloody mess on the ground. When the inevitable investigation or lawsuit finally happens, it will be on everyone’s mind that you’re a trained martial artist, and you inflicted injuries upon them.
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Of course, when our lives are threatened we need to take positive, incisive action, but this is self-defense, not a street fight.
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There’s no point in risking injury or death if you can prevent it. There’s never a point to a street fight unless you KNOW it is a life or death situation, or it just CANNOT be avoided.
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To me, fighting first – a street fight – is an agreement to fight, a consensual match. Stating, “**** self-defense. I teach people to fight,” is irresponsible at best.
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Do you just want to learn to fight?
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For me, no. I want to go home in one piece and be able to enjoy my day.
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Ultimately, true martial arts training is about mastering the art of avoiding unnecessary conflict, preserving your well-being, and respecting the power you hold.
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Swallow your pride, fight first? No – get out of there. Practice it.
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AC
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