Self-defense is one of those activities that serves both as a form of physical fitness and as a practical skill for real-world situations. We do not live in a perfect world where everyone respects boundaries, so having at least some ability to protect yourself is important. While serious incidents are relatively rare, they do occur often enough that learning basic self-defense skills is a reasonable and responsible choice. This is especially relevant for women, who face higher risks of certain types of assault, but it applies to anyone who may encounter aggression, bullying, or unpredictable situations.
There are three major benefits to practicing self-defense:
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| Jack teaches younger people who engage in self-defense to be humble, foregiving, and understand the responsibilities of such skills. Training self-defense is good for fitness, self-defense skill, and teaches restraint. |
A typical hour of self-defense training can burn around 500+ calories an hour and engage the entire body. Training builds muscle tone, balance, speed, flexibility, and overall preparedness. In many ways, it resembles activities like dance, which is why the two often complement each other very well. Punching, blocking and kicking take significant effort. Most practice includes a component of floor movements and that is used to keep your physical ability to handle on the ground or on your feet.
2. Practical Self-Defense Skill
My background is primarily in Kenpo, mixed martial arts, and hand-to-hand techniques, though different styles emphasize different approaches. Some focus on grappling and joint locks, while others are more direct and designed for real-world self-protection. When these skills are needed, having them can make a significant difference. Women can be just as capable as men in self-defense, and many fundamental techniques can be learned relatively quickly (Strength is only one component and knowing where and how has a much bigger influence.). Keep coming back to the basics.
3. Ethical and Moral Foundation
Self-defense is grounded in moral responsibility. Many of these disciplines have evolved over hundreds of years and, much like yoga, are associated with ethical codes and philosophies. While not everyone pursues the spiritual aspects, those principles often emphasize restraint, respect, and self-control. In my experience, continued training reinforces the importance of de-escalation. These skills are rarely used because understanding their effectiveness encourages confidence, calmness, and the wisdom to avoid unnecessary conflict.
Ultimately, self-defense teaches us to walk softly—but with confidence. I am a fitness trainer, a yoga instructure and have engaged in self-defense in various disciplines for much of my life. If you want some help achieving your goals let me know through a message to the right.
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