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Writer's pictureRobert J. Norton Ph.D.

Something to ponder when looking to learn self-defence!



Norton Arts blog titled Something to ponder when looking to learn self-defence. This blog provides valuable insight into understanding that martial arts and self-defence are not the same thing. This is to help those on PEI and beyond understand that there are professionals that understand and teach real-world self-defence versus a traditional martial arts approach.
Something to Ponder When Looking to Learn Self-Defence

As a disclaimer, this has been written for educational purposes toward those thinking of learning self-defence. It has not been written with any intent to insult or disrespect anyone.


Have you ever noticed how professional self-defence instructors don’t promote what they teach as martial arts? Yet many martial arts schools still advertise their programs as self-defence. Why do you think that is?


The simple reality is that those who professionally teach self-defence have typically either evolved from a martial arts background or have learned from someone who has moved beyond those confined parameters, understanding that martial arts and self-defence are not the same thing.


Martial arts offer tremendous benefits—discipline, fitness, mental strength, and cultural heritage among them. These are all incredibly valuable qualities that contribute to personal growth. However, when it comes to real-world self-defence, the focus shifts beyond physical techniques to include mental preparedness, emotional resilience, and a deeper understanding of the realities of violence.


If you’re looking to develop the qualities found in many martial arts, then martial arts can be an excellent path. But if your primary goal is to gain practical and real-world education in the protection of self, I encourage you to seek out one of the select few professionals who dedicate their time to empowering people through understanding the reality of violence and preparedness.


Again, this is not aimed at insulting or disrespecting anyone who dedicates their time to martial arts. In fact, many professional self-defence instructors have roots in martial arts and understand firsthand the passion and dedication it takes. However, through experience, they’ve evolved their approach to better address the complexities of real-world violence.


Having spent decades teaching both martial arts and real-world self-defence, I’ve witnessed firsthand how the two can complement each other. While martial arts have their place, reality-based self-defence training is essential for those who want to be prepared for the unpredictable nature of real-world encounters. Teaching a technique-based, unrealistic approach to self-defence, and only focusing on the physical aspect at that, may make the instructor look good, but it certainly doesn’t help the person learning it. It can provide a false sense of confidence and security in situations that demand more than just physical skills.


If your goal is to protect yourself in real-world situations, consider seeking out an instructor who specializes in real-world self-defence education. These professionals are dedicated to helping you understand the reality of violence, preparing you to respond effectively in a variety of circumstances. Their focus is on providing practical, real-world skills that go far beyond the physical.


And let us not forget one of the most important aspects of all. True real-world self-defence goes beyond physical skills. It requires a trauma-aware approach that acknowledges the reality of violence and empowers without blame or shame. This means understanding that violence often comes not from strangers, but from people we know and trust.


That being said, martial arts and self-defence don’t have to be mutually exclusive. Many people find that combining their martial arts training with reality-based self-defence creates a well-rounded skill set. If you’re interested in exploring that path, I have had the absolute pleasure of collaborating or simply communicating with many professionals, and I would be delighted to refer you to them wherever you may live.


At Norton Arts, we believe that everyone deserves to feel safe and empowered, no matter their circumstances. Together, we can build the skills that allow us to move through life with confidence and calm. Take the first step toward feeling more secure in your everyday life by exploring our self-protection training. www.nortonarts.org




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