Karate as Self-defense - is the main purpose. Join our Karate (martial art) classes at the Porchester Centre London UK. We specialize in how best to defend yourself. 

Karate As Self Defense 

Although it takes many years of training to acquire proficiency in Karate, the techniques learned can still be utilized effectively for self-defence. People well trained in Karate have an even greater advantage and can successfully defend themselves against an adversary who attempts to holds grab or threaten them. Depending on the situation, Karate techniques may be used to escape from, and counter attack an aggressor, or counter attack and then escape. In either case, the Karate-ka must effectively utilize those parts of the body that can still be moved and take maximum advantage of the strength of the aggressor.

However, if you do not practice the techniques you have learned, your self-defence will likely be ineffective. Being out of practice makes you like an ill prepared and weak army, who, if attacked by a stronger and prepared army, would surely lose.

One of the chief advantages that Karate has over any other martial art concerning self-defence is that even if the upper body is immobilized, the feet and legs can still be used to an advantage. In spite of this, a good principle to remember is that every effort should be made to escape and/or counter attack before the opponent has a chance to get a hold of you, and to break that hold once made, as quickly as possible.

There are literally hundreds of different situations that you could encounter – no two being alike. Therefore, it is imperative to realize your limitations and not acquire a false sense of security. The stronger, faster, and more developed your techniques are, the greater chance you have for success.

Here are a few important things to remember.

For more on this subject have a look at our blog if interested.

1.  Your best weapons are your judgment, reasoning, awareness of your surroundings, and your common sense.

2.  Always be aware of, and alert in your surroundings, particularly when you are at a disadvantage (unfamiliar neighbourhoods, strangers or even acquaintances, being alone anywhere).

3.  Do not get into situations or circumstances that are potentially dangerous or threatening to your well-being.

4.  If you can run or escape—do it! Avoid confrontation where ever possible—you might lose!.

5.  Try to talk your way out of any confrontation if fleeing is not possible. Trying to talk your way out may stall your attacker long enough for you to get the advantage.

6.  If possible, do not let anyone get a hold of you. If it does happen, you must defend yourself immediately.

7.  Do not think about your defence too long – react, of it may be too late.

8.  Take advantage of any object within reach that can be used as a weapon (handbag, brief case, shopping bag, umbrella, book, keys, etc). Also remember that any part of your body can be used as a weapon: fingers, nails, elbows, knees, head and teeth.

9.  If and when you counter attack with a punch, kick, or strike, you must do so with all the strength and intensity you can muster (kiai and kime). You may only get one chance.

10.   Use your voice to call for help, draw attention, or to distract your adversary momentarily so that you can execute your defence.

11.  And finally,  -   you must decide what actions to take for a given situation that will result in your survival. Know the consequences of your actions! Use common sense to take flight or to fight is a decision that you must make for your best chance at survive.

USS!