Martial Arts for Self-Defense

April 14, 2023

The public calls upon police, safety and security officers to solve problems that often require physical intervention. However, what happens when these individuals can’t access weapons or have the time needed to use them effectively? In these cases, law enforcement officers should have the skill to take down an assailant quickly and efficiently. If you want to be able to defend yourself in these situations, you should consider learning martial arts.

What Are Martial Arts?

Martial arts are various forms of combat that have many different styles and vary widely in approaches to training and technique. Practiced for thousands of years in cultures worldwide, the first martial arts had primarily military purposes, but many styles developed for personal self-defense and development over time.

Who Should Learn Martial Arts?

Martial arts are a great way to get in shape, build confidence and gain self-defense skills. Some individuals who would benefit from learning these combat forms include:

• Safety officers: Police, safety and security officers face many dangers on the job. Martial arts for law enforcement give these individuals the skills to defend themselves from physical attacks and protect properties and people.
• First responders: First responders save others every day. When not in an emergency, they should train for one. Martial arts for first responders allow these individuals to mentally and physically prepare for any situation that might arise.
• Anyone who wants additional security: Whether you need extra protection or want to sharpen your mind and body, martial arts training can help you achieve your goals.

Types of Martial Arts for Self-Defense

In unsafe situations, martial arts can give you the tools and skills to minimize risks or get out safely. The process of learning about martial arts for self-defense takes time and patience. Types of martial arts to consider include:

• Krav Maga: Developed in Israel, Krav Maga has since established itself as one of the more popular self-defense styles in law enforcement, as it focuses on using multiple angles and attacks to overwhelm an opponent.
• Filipino martial arts: Many Filipino martial arts systems focus on striking with knives or sticks but also work to hone grappling techniques. Filipino martial arts prioritize leverage, locks and control over strength, making these methods ideal for smaller officers, especially when handcuffing or restraining someone.
• Brazilian jiu-jitsu: Brazilian jiu-jitsu gives officers and safety officials a way to gain control over suspects without seriously harming them, if possible. As many Brazilian jiu-jitsu practitioners are ex-military or ex-police themselves, your instructor will know how to use their skills in various situations, including when negotiation is not an option. You’ll also learn grappling and ground fighting techniques for cases when you end up on the ground with your opponent.
• Judo: Founded in Japan in the late 19th century, judo emphasizes using an opponent’s strength against them and teaches efficient ways of getting people off you so you can retreat safely. These techniques make it a tremendous defensive art and an effective way to disarm someone who may possess a gun or knife.
• Japanese jujitsu: Japanese jujitsu is similar to judo in its emphasis on throwing techniques. However, this technique differs in its focus on groundwork and submission holds instead of throws alone, making it more helpful in dealing with multiple opponents.

Advantages of Learning Martial Arts for Self-Defense

Five benefits of martial arts for self-defense include:

1. Increased flexibility: Martial arts’ emphasis on flexibility makes them perfect for the physically demanding situations and jobs of a law enforcement or safety officer.
2. Improved strength: These fighting techniques help build muscle mass throughout the body. As a result, martial arts improve overall strength and endurance in preparation for situations like running down suspects or lifting objects. This increased strength can even improve morale around you.
3. Enhanced mental acuity: Martial arts require focus and concentration on physical and mental levels. By stimulating both physical and mental aspects while practicing the various techniques, you’ll find yourself more aware of how your body moves while also learning how this movement affects others around you.
4. Developed self-defense skills: Martial arts teach you how to defend yourself with and without using weapons, increasing your safety wherever you go.
5. Refined emotional control: Martial arts training helps you remain calm under pressure. When faced with an emergency situation, panic and mistakes could cause harm or cost lives. By learning to stay calm and focused in stressful situations, you’ll know how to keep your cool, even when others can’t.

Contact Vigilant Tiger Security Today

When it comes to security, you want the best of the best. You need a company that can help you develop a long-term strategy tailored to your needs and stand ready when you need them most. We offer customized plans designed to fit your unique requirements and keep you or your business safe from internal and external threats.