In this video, Tony Cecchine and I discuss self-defence and a few other pieces of information that are crucial to staying safe. We cover why you must assume an attacker is armed, why grappling is a bad idea on the street, and much more.

It is for anyone who trains for self-defence, and especially for people whose training is mostly sport-based and who have not thought hard about the differences.

Assume the Attacker Is Armed

This is one of the most important ideas in self-defence. Is the attacker armed? You must assume so. Knives are small, easy to hide, and often not seen until after someone has been cut. Many people who have been stabbed say they thought they had been punched.

Assuming a weapon keeps you alert. It changes how you watch the hands, how you manage distance and how quickly you look for a way out. It also changes your idea of what winning means. In self-defence, winning is getting home safe.

Why Grappling Is a Bad Idea on the Street

Grappling is a great skill and it is excellent for sport. But on the street, going to the ground with someone carries big risks:

  • The attacker may have a weapon you have not seen
  • There may be friends who join in while you are tied up
  • Hard ground, glass and kerbs cause injuries that mats do not
  • You cannot easily escape while locked up with someone

That does not mean grappling skill is useless. Knowing how to get back up, escape a hold or stop someone taking you down is very valuable. The point is not to choose the ground when you have a choice.

Sport Versus Street

Sport training builds fitness, timing and toughness, and that all helps. But sport has rules, a referee, one opponent and no weapons. The street has none of that. Your training should reflect the difference, with awareness, avoidance and escape coming first.

Staying on the Right Side of the Law

Any force you use must be reasonable for the threat you face. Avoid trouble where you can, leave when you can, and only use force when you have to. Self-defence is about protecting yourself and others, never about looking for a fight.

Take It Further

For a structured self-defence system, see the Pressure Point Self Defense Course. If you want to start for free, try the FREE Pressure Point Fighting Mini-Course, which includes a weapon defence lesson.