Martial Arts practice unrealistic scenarios.

Self-defence training in martial arts is commonly built upon practising many scenarios where it is expected to happen like this ‘on the street’. The training involves building up many techniques to counter every problem scenario envisaged. For example, there will be a technique to counter a wrist being grabbed but a different technique if the elbow is grabbed. Therefore, the martial artist expects to be able to counter the bad guy at every move and come back and prove victorious.

The problem is that this entire process is a lie, and what violence is and what they think it is are entirely different.

When stressed, many techniques for countering potential attacks fail. The average martial artist cannot quickly recall the specific technique for an attack when in a situation requiring a physical response. This creates a ‘log jam’ because although many techniques are known, the correct one cannot be selected quickly. 

Suppose any of these techniques involve fine motor skills. In that case, they will typically not be available once the body goes into its ‘fight or flight’ mode under the influence of adrenaline (‘adrenal dump’). Fine motor skills can become available but only if highly trained — unlikely if only practised occasionally. Under stress, only gross motor skills are usually available, such as running, jumping, pushing, and lifting. This is basic human physiology.

Regarding knives, you will not be attacked with a knife in the ways shown in a mainstream martial arts class – typically the lunging outstretched arm or downwards overhead. It is unlikely that you will even see the knife, and if someone is going to stab you, they will get close first and then stab you repeatedly, not just once.

They are focused on stabbing, but if you are focused on defending, blocking or trying to restrain, then you have a lot more things to think about than your attacker. Their mindset is simply Stab, Stab, Stab… and that’s what they will do.