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Self-Defense Systems by Derek Smith

Picking The System For You

As a former federal agent, retired military counterintelligence and investigations agent, and 35-year martial artist with several black belts I know a little about what really works for self-defense and what does not. With that being said, I want to share with you what I think are the best martial arts for real urban survival and why. I currently study each of these arts because I truly believe they are the best for saving your life.

Standup Fighting

Krav Maga

As you know, most fights start with both opponents standing. I have been in many altercations and I have tried various martial arts in these situations. I have tried using my Japanese and Korean martial arts training in Shotokan and Shorin Ryu, and my Korean Tae Kwon Do training in standup situations. I have found them lacking in many situations because people just don’t punch and kick in a real fight the way we punch in Karate class.

Krav Maga, on the other hand, is an Israeli Close Combat Self Defense system actually utilized by the Israeli Defense Forces on a regular basis in real life fighting situations. As a Defensive Tactics Instructor at the Air Force Special Investigations Academy, we taught, and they now teach Krav Maga to new special agents and I was a top instructor there.

What I like about Krav Maga is that it uses instinctive movements that are easier to recall during the stress of an attack. That’s important because in a stressful situation you are going to forget all the fancy moves and resort to the basics. Krav Maga is used internationally by law enforcement and military members, and it teaches you how to naturally react against an armed or unarmed attacker.

In literally every altercation I have been in, and seen, the basics were the most effective. Whenever I tried something fancy, it did not work. Krav Maga was started in the 1930s in Germany by Jews who were training to defend themselves against the Nazis. The System was soon adapted by the Israeli Defense Force because it is rather easy to learn (another thing I love) but has extremely effective techniques. It is known for being one of the most effective self-defense systems today.

Origins and Applications

Krav Maga is known for its focus on real-world situations and its extreme efficiency. The original concept of Krav Maga was to take the most simple and practical techniques of other fighting styles (originally European boxing, wrestling and street fighting) and make them rapidly teachable to military soldiers.

Characteristics of Krav Maga include:

  • Developing physical aggression with the idea that physical aggression is the most important component in a fight.
  • Continuing to strike the opponent until they are completely incapacitated.
  • Attacking preemptively or counterattacking as soon as possible
  • Using any objects at hand that could be used to hit an opponent
  • Targeting attacks to the body’s most vulnerable points, such as: the eyes, neck or throat, face, solar plexus, groin, ribs,
    knee, foot, fingers, liver, etc.
  • Using simple and easily repeatable strikes
  • Maintaining awareness of surroundings while dealing with the threat in order to look for escape routes, further attackers,
    objects that could be used to strike an opponent.
  • Recognizing the importance of and expanding on instinctive response under stress.

Additional Benefits

Other benefits of training in Krav Maga is that it will help you to develop situational awareness, an understanding of your surroundings, the psychology of a street confrontation, and how to identify potential threats before an attack occurs.

You also develop mental toughness, using controlled scenarios to strengthen your mental fortitude.
Krav Maga is an eclectic system that takes what is useful from available systems, for example:

  • Strikes – form karate, and boxing
  • Take-downs and throws – from judo, aikido, and wrestling
  • Ground work – from judo and wrestling

Beyond this, Krav Maga has developed several supplementary techniques, as necessary, combining effectiveness with simplicity, so every technique is a natural reaction from your body.

Ground Fighting

Judo or Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

During my career I have unfortunately found myself down on the ground in fighting situations. I thought I knew what to do. I would use my techniques I learned in Hapkido or Japanese Jiujitsu and learn at the most inopportune time that they did not work again a determined attacker.

At 54 years old I currently study judo and Brazilian Jiujitsu.

In some situations, my grappling training has definitely helped me, like the time a guy grabbed my collar and I quickly dislocated his finger, but in true ground grappling situations my techniques fell short. So that is why I have incorporated judo and BJJ into my arsenal and recommend it to you.

Helps You Stay On Your Feet

For self-defense, first let me tell you that studying judo will actually help you to stay on your feet. Staying on your feet is important as going to the ground on purpose is a HUGE mistake since the reality of weapons, multiple attackers or dealing with much LARGER and STRONGER fighters will eliminate most BJJ techniques.

Judo teaches you to stay on your feet and how to keep your balance against a much larger and stronger attacker. Maintaining your balance in a fight in critical to enable you to keep mobile and keep STRIKING (or stabbing, or bludgeoning…and EVEN DRAWING YOUR FIREARM, which I had to do from the ground as an agent).

Helps You Pin Your Attacker

On the ground Judo will allow you to fight for a position of dominance, fighting to PIN or SUBMIT your attacker as soon as possible. Judo also trains you to act with a sense of urgency. One false move, one misstep will end the match. This trains your mind to move with purpose. This is the EXACT way you need to approach self-defense. For self-defense purposes, you DON’T need to be great at Judo – all you need is to build up a good defense which can happen in months, not years.

BJJ concentrates more on ground work and is not as urgent as judo. It focuses on being patient, waiting for the attacker to make a mistake. This is both good and bad for self-defense. But the problem with BJJ is that it ENCOURAGES you to go to the ground.

Forget what “moves” or take downs you practice, the end result of many BJJ fighters is to use takedowns to enter into ground fighting and remember I said that going to the ground on purpose is a HUGE mistake. But if you do end up there, and you likely will, then knowing how to stay calm and effectively handle the situation is essential to your survival. Therefore, I highly recommend learning one of these arts.

Weapons-Based Self-Defense

Arnis, Escrima, Kali

If you want to learn to use and defend against weapons, it’s hard to beat the Filipino martial arts (commonly known as arnis, kali and escrima). The particular form I train in is called Pekiti Tirsia Kali. Pekiti-Tirsia Kali is a style specific to Filipino Martial Arts (FMA).

It is strictly a combat-oriented system, as opposed to a sport-focused, style. It is a fighting system that focuses on edged, impact and improvised weapons. PTK, as it is also known, has been adopted as the preferred combative training program by elite military and law enforcement units around the world.

Unlike most styles, nearly all Filipino arts put weapon training first. While different FMAs specialize in different weapons, many of them include training with blunt and sharp weapons of various lengths, from palm sticks and knives to sticks and swords.

The reason I chose this art as one of my choices for you is that a stick, knife, pole, etc., are readily available today, and the skill you learn in these arts transfers very well to everyday objects, and the empty hand applications can be very effective too.

Weapons Create Uncommon Opportunities

Weapons create the opportunity for angles and methods of attack that are uncommon in unarmed fighting. But uncommon does not equal ineffective. The unarmed techniques in many FMAs come directly from armed techniques, leading to unexpected and functional applications. Training the unique footwork and weapon techniques of the FMAs will add another dimension to your urban survival skills.

Techniques and training methods are different depending on the weapon being used or defended against. However, most have training methods in the following area:

  • Stick (stick, double stick, cane, bat, hammer, crow bar)
  • Palm Stick (wrench, pen, flashlight)
  • Knife (knife, broken bottle, scissors)
  • Sword (machete, sword)
  • Projectile (gun, pepper spray, rocks)
  • Linked (chain, pet leash)
  • Empty Hands (unarmed applications of kali)

I hope this list shows you the effectiveness of Kali type training for your urban survival needs.

Wrapping Up

Final Thoughts

So that’s it folks. Based on my 37 years in security, law enforcement and the military and having been involved in many altercations, I truly believe that these arts will make you a complete and effective fighter and will get you out of almost any hand to hand combat situation. Try them out and see how effective they are for you.

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44 thoughts on “Self-Defense Systems by Derek Smith”

  1. Hey there guys …. my name is John and due to a motorcycle accident I can only use 1 hand/arm (the right) I also suffered brain damage so I got balance problems. I don’t like backing down, are there any techniques other than smashing someone with a brick that could help ….. I also need to improve my balance.

  2. I would agree with the caveat that learning Judo and BJJ have rules; you do what you train, especially under stress. The ground is hard, uneven and not conducive for maneuvering, so ground escape has to be brutal and fast before the “mob” decides to join in and you’re done.

  3. Tnx. Great refresher. At 68, it’s now time to take this seriously, more than ever. My past training kept me alert for yrs. Do to injuries it’s been difficult. But now in my second yr of accupuncture, it’s time to get back in shape. Tnx ahain for yor motivation. You all,will hear from me soon.

  4. Hi,
    That was very informative and giving us the opportunity to choose one or other…
    By myself, I prefer to learn Krav Maga, as I learned in the Army… Very effective and easy to use in the real situation… I’ve been serving in Iraq, and Afghanistan, and unfortunately I had a chance to use my knowledge…. But was 16yrs ago, so now I’m studying again… Thank you Derek, and thanks for Fight fast, for this videos, blogs, items, etc…. I’m really happy to be the part of this team 😉😉Viktor from UK

  5. A lot of really good stuff here. I would be interested in techniques for defending against multiple attackers. Many times there will be one guy whose job is to tackle you and take you down while his buddies put the boots to you.

  6. Howdy John,

    I’m sorry that you are suffering with the injuries you stated having. I’m somewhat in the same boat as you. I had cancer removed from my left shoulder that included my shoulder socket being eaten up. I now have a 1 pound bolt keeping my arm attached to my body. I’m also epileptic and have memory and balance issues as well. My advice to you would be to practice using momentum blocks with your left arm, and striking with your right. As you know, most people are right handed, and will begin an attack with a “haymaker” swing. This you can block with your left arm. As for balance issues, I recommend standing on a cinder-block, and practice your blocks and strikes. For that, you can either stand on 1 cinder-block, or 2, with 1 foot on each one. Once you have mastered that, you’ll be amazed at your improved balance on the ground. Take your time though, and don’t let yourself get frustrated if it takes a while to master. I hope this helped you some, and I wish you the best of luck! Take Care and Stay Safe!

  7. Thank you for so much information! However I m at an age where I need quick , effective techniques to disable an attacker quickly so I can escape! I’m in my 70’s
    Cheers! EG

  8. Its the reality nowadays, you need skills in stand up, on the ground and grappling, multiple opponents and weapons defence. You need to understand the psychology of violence and the lead ups to the situation can occur. Know when to fight and how to respond quickly is a good shock to any advisory. Looking at different arts can give you a all around insight. I enjoy hearing from these guys they are the teacher with expirience in the field. Thank yous again for a very insightful conversation.

  9. A weapon most men forget about is their belt and belt buckle. I wonder what might have happened on 9-11 if all the men in the plans had rushed the terrorists who only had box cutters. I think there is a great chance they could have subdued
    the attackers and gained control of the cockpit.

  10. Hi,
    I enjoy your site. Unfortunately physical disability stands in the way. Dad was a Philadelphia Irish cop with a billyclub.
    He taught me always pick up an equalizer even if you just put it in your back pocket. So, 10th degree back pocket trick shot artist. Perfect practice makes for better. Not practice makes better. Right ? Disapline in a twisted form. Lol

  11. I like the review on Kali and krav. I have a question though, if you had to pick one to go with, which one would it be? I’ve looked into both and thought that krav also does weapons training. How hard/long does it take to be efficient in Kali? I always loved the empty hands defense.
    Thanks

  12. You don’t need to learn all of those martial arts to survive a fight or to defend yourself, love ones, etc. on a street fight. One style is good enough as long as you put your heart & mind really into it. Color of the belts in martial arts don’t mean anything. What’s important is you are deeply into it learning that one’s life is really very important to survive in this world & enjoy life. That is a primary reason one takes up martial arts. I have been in martial arts for 40 years. My expertise is in Okinawa karate, Shorin-Ryu. I was also in many actual street fights against gangs with weapons such as guns, knives, brass knuckles, etc. & was able to knock out the enemy while the rest ran away. My advise is select what type of martial arts suits you & stick to it with your mind, heart & soul. Once you have mastered it, you will feel like a king.

  13. So, I have to ask? Is there one style that covers all of the bases? Time is an important issue as well as money. If there is only one then I could move forward in that direction???
    Thanks for your time and for your information in this article.
    Regards,
    Eric

  14. Thanks for this one , Bob. Derek is spot on with his assessment of the varying styles. Having been involved with Shotokan Karate for many years I completely identify with Derek’s comments. A powerful Martial Art, like Shotokan, requires to be more adaptable in order to be effective on the street. Krav Maga certainly fits the bill by extracting the more useful parts of many styles and brings them together as an effective fighting package. Despite my liking for Karate, I have recommended to parents over the years that they start their children in Judo for the many benefits it provides. Good to see that Derek feels similarly.

  15. Very informative. Thanks for the opportunity to learn from such experience.
    Provides good direction for anyone looking for a martial art style that suits them.

  16. Never forget the Chinese always have been masters of deception in weaponry. Never be the frog that fell in the well it only sees a piece of the sky. every Art can kill you. It’s what you don”t know that can hurt you.

  17. Wonderful info. It’s nice even if one is a cripple in a wheelchair. Learning it while one is still in good health will prove to be advantageous when one is already debilitated by arthritis or old age. Arnis is particularly recommended for cripples.

  18. I concluded general fitness was the best part of Self-Defence, because it allows you the mobility to dodge attacks. That and being used to confronting an opponent while Sparring, and punching a bag without damaging your hands. The problem with weapons is that you don’t have them around when you need them. Or if you do you’re liable to get arrested.

  19. Frank Mitchell that is true. I am in pretty good shape for a 54 year old guy and I am sure my martial arts training has something to do with that. As for weapons, what if you are attacked at home. Also, there are place where you can carry legally. In addition, you can turn regular items into a weapon if you know how (see my improvised weapon DVD.)

  20. Roland Escalante there are many things people with disabilities can learn to protect themselves. You mentioned Arnis, which is a good one. Stay positive and keep training.

  21. Steven Bates, agreed. There are many great arts out there. Find what works best for you, that is also based in reality and what works on the street today, and you should be good to go.

  22. Iain Baxter thanks for validating my thoughts on this subject. I too have a black belt in Shotokan and I love the traditional arts, but most people aren’t as dedicated to hours of study to perfect the techniques. They need something quick and easy to learn, but also effective.

  23. Eric I recommend going with Krav Maga. Also, many Krav schools are now incorporating BJJ into their training so perhaps you can find one. But Krav will probably do if you are looking to survive a street attack and can do only one.

  24. SGT Jay Francisco I have a black belt in Okinawan Shorin Ryu as well. It was my first black belt as a matter of fact. Your advise is sound, find what you like and master it if you can. But if you don’t have that kind of time, pick something you can learn fast and use effectively. As you know, it takes several years to master Shorin Ryu. Also, I have studied many different arts, and unlike your experience, some of these have not been as effective in law enforcement, protective service and self defense situations…at least not for me.

  25. Dennis overall I love Kali, but I would have to go with Krav. However, in the schools I have trained in, we do not learn how to use weapons, we learn how to defend against them, so you won’t have that training I don’t think. However, kali/arnis/escrima empty hand training is good too, if your schools emphasizes it. Many stick to mainly stick and knife with very little empty hand.

  26. David boisson I agree, I prefer to have a weapon first and hand to hand as a last resort. Especially in real life situations. Despite what ANYONE tells you, in combat you rarely have to resort to hand to hand. In self defense you do, but use a weapon if you have one.

  27. Darrell Burkland you are so right about the belt. This is one of the first things I think about. I almost always have a belt on and know it is a go-to weapon if I need to have one.

  28. Viktor Kovacs thank you for your comments. It is good to have brothers in arms who can verify that the techniques and systems we teach and recommend works. Many civilians have never had to endure what we have and they can surely learn from our experiences.

  29. Bob, I totally agree with you. The goal is to get OFF the ground as quick as possible. But you need to know how to handle yourself if you plan to do that. I have definitely been kicked my a bystander friend of the bad guy when I was down.

  30. John I believe that the judo will help you with your balance. Also, you can use your disadvantage to your advantage. For you, ground fighting might be good because if you have balance issues, you can take your opponent to the ground where it won’t matter as much.