WHAT?… Self-defense is not necessary?

 

Posted by ADAM CARTER on APR 03, 2024

WHAT?… Self-defense is not necessary?

 

(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”.

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?

Self-defense unnecessary?

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.

I can assure you that self-defense is not only necessary but fundamentally different from competitive sports.

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.

Self-defense is about de-escalation when possible and effective defense when necessary, to escape, not to stand there and fight.

Unlike sports, which operate within defined rules, self-defense is about responding to unpredictable threats. It prioritizes survival over points or winning.

When it comes to self-protection, it’s about staying safe, young, old, the vulnerable, everyone.

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.

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.

And violence can erupt unexpectedly anywhere. Road rage, muggings, or assaults in the workplace, anywhere, regardless of perceived safety.

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.

The assertion that self-defense is not necessary and that it is no different from sport is not only misguided but perilously misguided.

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.

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.

Self-defense isn’t about paranoia; it’s about responsible preparation. While some skills might overlap with sport, the core purpose is vastly different.