(1 minute 45 second read)

Recent comments on one of my articles, dismissed self-defense as unnecessary; “self defense never really necessary – [snip] – if someone want to rob my wallet or phone with knife, I will just give them away”.
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Good tactics, but what if they want more? What if you are in the wrong neighborhood, or they just don’t like your face and want to hurt you anyway?
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Self-defense unnecessary?
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Another comment blurred the lines between self-defense and sport stating it is “dangerous to separate them”, these comments for me are worrying and highlights a crucial gap in understanding.
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I can assure you that self-defense is not only necessary but fundamentally different from competitive sports.
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Crime exists, and the world can be a dangerous place. While crime rates may fluctuate, the unfortunate reality is that violence can erupt unexpectedly anywhere.
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Self-defense is about de-escalation when possible and effective defense when necessary, to escape, not to stand there and fight.
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Unlike sports, which operate within defined rules, self-defense is about responding to unpredictable threats. It prioritizes survival over points or winning.
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When it comes to self-protection, it’s about staying safe, young, old, the vulnerable, everyone.
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A self-defense scenario is often messy and brutal, lacking referees or protective gear. The attacker might be armed, and the environment could be a cluttered alley or a dark street, hard concrete, not a cushioned mat.
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Very different from a friendly sparring match or a competition with clear rules and a safe place to fall, with a medic on the sidelines.
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And violence can erupt unexpectedly anywhere. Road rage, muggings, or assaults in the workplace, anywhere, regardless of perceived safety.
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While martial arts skills can be honed through sport, the mentality is fundamentally different. Sportsmanship emphasizes respect for the opponent, adhering to rules, and winning within a controlled environment. You stop when told to do so by a judge or referee.
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The assertion that self-defense is not necessary and that it is no different from sport is not only misguided but perilously misguided.
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Self-defense remains a vital skillset necessary for navigating the complexities of the modern world, empowering individuals to safeguard their well-being and that of others.
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It is imperative to uphold the distinction between self-defense and sport, acknowledging their unique roles and significance. As martial artists and proponents of self-defense, it is our responsibility to dispel misconceptions and advocate for the cultivation of practical skills that can save lives when the need arises.
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Self-defense isn’t about paranoia; it’s about responsible preparation. While some skills might overlap with sport, the core purpose is vastly different.