Originally Posted by
yuki
I was thinking about karate... Anyone has experience with defending yourself against bigger guys?
Certain Karate systems have curriculums transferrable to unrestricted fighting; but, I would recommend just going to a MMA school if possible. Purely for the reason that it's easier on the wallet and allows you access to different arts at the same place at different times at worthwhile places. Boxing, Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Wrestling, MMA, these are the types of programs and classes you usually want to see when you're selecting a gym. Having a couple fighters there with decent accolades is preferred. Fighters beyond the national level (think LFA or Tuff n Uff) are preferable; but, that could also result in more expensive gym fees. This is to learn a good base for fighting.
Learning self defense specific tactics is usually something that is more conceptual in nature. Meaning, you've already trained in ingraining the mechanics behind each strike into your muscle memory: your jab, your cross, your roundhouse, your elbow, your knee, etc. A self defense curriculum usually entails a spectrum of escalation relative to the threat you are encountering, never going beyond what can be perceived as your legal limits. This includes de-escalatory tactics and active situational awareness skills. In the event you are forced to escalate your own force, it can vary from a level of a simple physical control to that of lethal force, causing death. It is imperative you familiarize yourself with the legislation in your country/state regarding self defense and lethal force. Learning to modify your strikes for self-defense is somewhat nuanced and does take time refining on its own, separate from what you would do typically in a fight with a competent person.
Going beyond that, learning offensive tactics for lethal force scenarios is something you can explore in firearms and small blades proficiency programs. Certain Filipino Martial Art styles, Kali, Jeet Kune Do, and other mixed programs available to law enforcement and security are all worthwhile exploring. Attending firearms seminars or proficiency courses near yourself would beneficial. But nothing is as beneficial as good as simple practice. Dryfiring your firearm at home and putting rounds in at the range. Maybe even opting for airsoft or devices like the MantisX to aide you in additional training. Some people will argue against concealed carry for self-defense usage. As a person who has been involved in multiple shootings and other weapons involved incidents having worked as an armed security officer, it's not a good feeling to hear bullets flying over and to not be able to do anything about it. Additionally, when properly trained, the gun can defeat the knife at any distance; of course, it will always also depend on the proficiency of the knife wielder versus your own. However, in order to make sure you can effectively use your firearm in a close quarters situation after you've trained in your basic handling and trigger control, you require the understanding of the clinch: controlling, isolating, framing to create distance and make usage of your draw.
So, in all, the journey to learning a system of self-defense doesn't really end with one art, nor does it end with your hands. It doesn't really end ever. If guns aren't legal in your country, god bless. If small blades are punished sternly in your country, god bless. I support banning weapons; but, unfortunately, I live in a country and state where weapons are easily obtainable by crazy people. As a martial artist, part of what I train is for competition, part of what I train is for the defense of myself and others. In order to fight against weapons, I have to learn how to wield them as well. I know, hearing the hypothetical of "what if a madman comes into the club you're working at and start shooting people?" is kinda out there, until it happens to you personally and people you care about get hurt.
Last edited by Xer0; Sep 25, 2023 at 03:51 AM.