“Self defence – sounds fun – as long as i don’t have to hurt anyone!”

Twice in recent weeks i have been discussing self-defence classes with potential students only to be met with the line “Self defence – sounds fun – as long as i don’t have to hurt anyone!”  Now they seemed really keen on the concept of looking out for themselves and ‘learning a few moves’, but when we got down to what that actually entailed the response was less cheery than it had been a moment ago.

Now in one respect it makes me very happy that i live in a world where despite seeing violence rocket into the realms of cool and near on compulsory when it comes to modern movie/computer game production, still every day people, some at least, are repulsed at the thought of doing serious harm to another individual.  These are good people who think violence is bad, even thinking of it as unpalatable, and well done to them, long may their lives be such that they can maintain this view-point and state of stand-offishness with such actions and activities.

Unfortunately though the people  i was speaking with had those very same  unsavoury and frightening elements of the human nature brought literally to her doorstep, and so think and indeed accept that these things exist she had to, and not just in someone else’s world.

The first step to self-defence is a recognition that it is needed, the second step is doing something about it.  Walking through the door of a martial arts club for the first time is a daunting prospect for most, but recognition of the need to do so and then acting on it shows bravery and a willingness for self-preservation that will only make the training that much more effective.

Violence is just all shades of ugly, but it can be managed (not controlled) by the right mindset, and this starts with the big ‘a’ of acceptance, accept the world is ugly, accept your limitations, accept your vulnerable and then don’t accept that there is nothing you can do about it.  Simple techniques, an understanding of the principles of awareness and avoidance, coupled with a strong will to survive, and you might simply do just that, survive.

Don’t live in ignorance but conversely don’t live in fear – there are still nice people who don’t want to hurt anyone, and they are more than welcome in my world. Why not book a private self defence class yourself or with a group of friends

Martial arts is not only fun for children, but can set them on the right path in life.

Whilst we have moved away from the very strict discipline associated with traditional martial arts, at CDA we still see the benefits that children gain from a structured and formalised environment.  It allows them the security to accept new and uncomfortable situations such as sparring for the first time, or demonstrating a technique in front of the class, because they feel protected by the discipline and oversight of the instructor and their fellow class mates.

We have seen reluctant and shy children excel at things they would not have dreamed of a few months before they started training.  Repetition, group participation and positive encouragement and acknowledgement makes their confidence, and in turn their ability thrive in such an environment.  They also have fun!!

Since having children of my own my believe in the benefits of martial arts training for children beyond simple self-protection and health, have been robustly reinforced and i would heartily recommend parents to give their children the opportunity to have a go, why not book a free taster martial arts session now – see details at www.combineddefensivearts.com/childrens-martial-arts