Real Self Defence is Risk Management

Please take a moment to reflect. What steps do we take to ensure we can enjoy a safe, happy and healthy life?
We take out insurance for car. For our home and contents. For travel. Some for death or permanent disability.Almost all of us have learned to swim. Initially to prevent drowning and then for enjoyment. Many of us will have undertaken a first-aid course. Knowing how to treat injury and save lives is important.

On the North Shore we are very fortunate. We have access to a range of quality health practitioners who are skilled in injury diagnosis and treatment and future prevention.

These demonstrate proactive measures (planning for issues in advance – swimming, insurance and injury prevention) and reactive measures (first aid and physical therapy).

Sadly, there appears to be a breakdown in the prevention logic when it comes to self defence skills.

I think it’s due to a couple of factors. “Good people” (productive and social members of the community) not wanting to learn how to hurt others. This combined with an inaccurate perception of what comprises self defence training.

Self defence training is risk management.

It's learning awareness and avoidance strategies to keep you out of dangerous situations.
It’s verbal tactics to de-escalate conflict.
It’s body language cues to alter the mood.
It’s understanding (but not agreeing with!) the thought process of the attacker so you are better prepared.

Physical training does make up a large part of training. This is so the practitioner has effective skill that work under pressure or if taken by surprise. However, physical is the last option. When all the other risk management skills have failed.

The scenario matters.
Adults may be at the pub. At the ATM or waiting for a taxi.
Teens may be catching public transport. Going to the movies. Hanging out in a park.
Kids may be waiting for school pickup. Walking to a friend's house.

All these situations offer a higher degree of risk than sitting at home.

While the practice of self defence may not be compatible with every personality, ignoring the need for self defence skills will not make you safe from violence.

So, why are we averse to learning risk management skills that can PREVENT physical injury and psychological trauma?