Martial
arts are perhaps best known for increasing one's fighting ability. After
all, that's what we see in the movies and on television--the good-guy
martial artist kicking some bad guy butt. However, these skills for personal
security aren't just used for fighting.
"I do this so I don't have to fight..."
For kids who are preyed upon by bullies, or reside in neighborhoods where
street violence is common, the ability to defend themselves allows them
peace of mind. In almost all cases, they never have to use their martial
arts techniques on someone. Their increased awareness and presence deters
violence. In effect, by understanding and mastering a higher level of
the force continuum, they can acheive their goals by using lesser levels
of force.
To Win Without Fighting is Best
For example, basic martial arts training always involves learning how
to avoid physical damage in a confrontation--whether by blocking a punch,
evading a strike by moving out of the way, or checking the incoming limb
before it can reach full-speed. Often, trained martial artists don't need
to harm their opponent--their adeptness at evading attacks lets them be
in control, and frustrates their attacker.
Martial arts training also involves awareness of how attacks occur. In
training to spar, students learn how to detect the beginning of an incoming
punch or kick: the subtle weight shift to a support leg, or a change in
focus in their opponent's gaze. Translate such awareness to the street,
and kids learn to watch what's in a stranger's hands--is it a weapon?
They learn to size up a potential opponent, and decide the best countermeasures--perhaps
it's better to cross the street before you pass that shady-looking character.
These "combat-oriented" benefits of martial arts training are
most often never used for combat.
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