Although fighting isn’t the best way to resolve a conflict, it’s sometimes inevitable. Such is the best time to put your martial art skills into use.
Most combat sports help build character and discipline. However, not all are great if you find yourself in a street fight.
So, which is the best martial art for self-defence?
Mixed Martial Arts (MMA)
As the name suggests, MMA combines the fighting techniques used in various martial arts. It’s the best for self-defence because it combines the styles of kickboxing, karate, wrestling, boxing, Krav Maga, etc.
The discipline owes its increasing popularity to the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), a competition where fighters from various countries compete in different weight levels.
Interestingly, you can customise your MMA training routine. Your ultimate goal determines your primary area of focus and shapes your path to becoming an expert fighter.
Jiu-Jitsu
Jiu-Jitsu, also called Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), is a combat sport that emphasises ground-based fighting and wrestling, characterised by chokeholds and joint locks. It encourages smaller fighters to defend themselves against bigger opponents by prioritising skill and agility over raw power.
BJJ focuses on neutralising your opponent such that they’re no longer a threat. Regardless of size and experience, fighters know the weak points to target. A lightweight novice can knock out a seasoned fighter if they hit the right spot.
The most significant drawback of this martial art is that it doesn’t train stand-up fighting. However, it makes up for it by perfecting takedown skills.
Krav Maga
The Israeli Defence Forces developed this martial art for use in real-life fights. It’s one of the most lethal combat sports.
Besides kicks, punches, and throws, this discipline teaches you how to demilitarise your opponent. When training, you’re likely to face firearms and rubber knives.
Although it seems tough for starters, Krav Maga’s techniques are easy to execute. Most moves focus on reflexes and instincts, making them easier to perform when you train more. For this reason, this sport is open to all individuals, regardless of fitness levels, size, and body strength.
Krav Maga improves your self-defence skills by teaching you how to counteract attackers and defend yourself using different body parts. You can use your elbows and knees as weapons.
Boxing
Boxing is a famous combat sport that can help you defend yourself against attackers. Its techniques are valuable in street fights, so it’s a great choice if you want to prove your self-defence skills.
Boxing teaches you to strike an attacker while standing on your feet. Training focuses on improving balance, hand-to-eye coordination, and overall strength. If you want to defeat your rival, you must maintain a good stance when fighting. Doing so makes your punches more effective.
Additionally, boxing teaches speed which helps you evade punches without falling. During training, your instructor will teach you skipping and other exercises to improve your speed and responsiveness.
Final Words
All the disciplines mentioned above can improve your fighting skills, helping you defend yourself in adverse situations. Your passion determines what’s best for you. For instance, if you like punching, boxing is the best choice. If you want grappling, you’ll be better off with Jiu-Jitsu. On the other hand, MMA is the ideal choice for all-rounders.
Training for martial arts takes commitment. You might need to change your daily routine and the meals you take to be a proficient fighter. For example, you’ll need to avoid junk food, as you get very little nutritional value from such meals.
Team Carlo offers professional Taekwondo training in Australia with a focus on physical fitness, mental discipline, and self-defense skills. Whether you are a beginner or advanced student, their classes will challenge and motivate you to achieve your goals.
Lastly, it’s vital to exercise self-control when you gain fighting skills. Don’t use your skills to hurt others.
