The art of self-defense has been around for centuries. Countless martial arts date back to before firearms and modern weaponry. We can only imagine how difficult it must have been for some to defend themselves way back when. Not that today is exceptionally safe or anything! Although vicious men on horseback aren’t robbing and pillaging anymore, there are still dangers to be wary of in the modern world we share. This is exactly why practical self-defense is becoming more and more popular as time moves forward. Traditional arts and showy martial arts belt colors are being set aside.
You may not realize it, but martial arts as a whole is constantly evolving. Ever since the beginning of MMA events like UFC, folks are realizing that being a good fighter is not all about a silly martial arts belt. Much has to do with the drive of the individual. The same goes for the street. Being a black belt in Karate or Hapkido will not necessarily save you from an aggressor. Don’t get me wrong; I’m not belittling these arts in particular. I’m only addressing the reality of the street. You see, a thug will typically rely on the element of surprise. So regardless of how versed you are in Judo, it doesn’t really matter when you’re clocked in the back of the head with a steel pipe. Furthermore, a martial arts belt will do you little good when someone is looming before you with a gun or edged weapon. Your best bet is to flee the scene. Even though techniques are taught that show you how to disarm a weapon, most experts won’t try it in reality themselves. The risk level is high!
So what is a martial arts belt? Well, it stands for your degree of knowledge and ability concerning a certain form of self-defense. However, if you’re seeking street-wise self-defense, I wouldn’t pursue and black belt in some popular fighting art. What you should do is take a recommended self-defense course with a buddy. If the instructor is reputable, he/she will likely show you basic knowledge and techniques you will need for the street. This is stuff that’s high percentage and really works. Most of it is mental, believe it or not. Surviving on the street is not like surviving in the dojo. Common sense plays a great role in reality.
Tags: black belt, fighting art, hapkido, self defense course
Leave a Reply