All American Martial Arts Overview

Sunday, April 24, 2011

Self-Defense - Keeping It Simple

Too often the image most people have of self-defense is what they see in television programs and the movies.  Our entertainment industry can create incorrect perceptions of what effective and realistic self-defense is.  It's easy to forget the highly choreographed movements we watch in the movies are created to entertain, not educate.

When it comes to self-defense, we have learned the truth of the saying, "simple is best."  Trying to teach an endless number of techniques that are complex and time consuming only increases the chances a student will be injured trying to use them.

It is also important not to abandon common sense.  Self-defense is more than knowing how or where to kick and punch.  It's also about understanding your surroundings and recognizing potentially dangerous situations before they arise.

In addition to simplicity and common sense, repetition is also important.  Self-defense is like any other skill you might learn.  To get really proficient requires practice.  A lot of instructors can teach you very good techniques.  But if they are actually going to be effective, they need to be practiced regularly.

We all can enjoy a good martial arts movie.  However, it's important to remember that the keys to good self-defense are simplicity, common-sense, and repetition.  These three keys can help you stay safe and secure.

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