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Three Self-Defense Concepts You Should Never Forget

Don’t Put Yourself In Unnecessary Danger

It does not matter what type of weapons or combative system you choose to use for self-defense. There are certain irrefutable concepts, truths if you will, about a self-defense encounter that you have to take into consideration and plan for if you want to survive. If you decide to ignore even one of the concepts I am about to share with you, you could be putting yourself in unnecessary danger.

The Basics

Let’s get started with these basic, but very important concepts. Take note that I used the words “basic” and “important” in the same sentence. People often think the basics are things you need to learn before you get to the “good stuff,” but in reality, the basics are the “good stuff,” and probably ALL you will need to deal with most situations…

…without them, you wouldn’t be able to do anything else!

If you’re new to the topic of real-world self-defense, I want you to take the time to burn these concepts into your brain and never forget them. If you are an old veteran like me or an advanced student, you might still want to check these out just to make sure that you have not missed anything important in your training.

Self-Defense Concepts You Should NEVER Forget

Self-Defense Concept #1 – You Are Your Own First-Line of Self-Defense

In most situations where an attack occurs you are by yourself. Most attackers won’t want to risk attacking more than one person unless they have a weapon. But most likely they are looking for an easy target. There could possibly be multiple attackers, though. So be vigilant.

In most situations, the police cannot save you during an attack. They will likely show up AFTER the attack has occurred. Also, you should not depend on bystanders to help you either. If attacked, you either will be ready or not. That means that it will be up to you, and only you, to do what is necessary to survive until you either neutralize the threat, or help, back-up, or whatever, arrives.

By the way, that even goes for those of you reading this who has some training, and know how to defend yourself. I recently talked to a female law enforcement officer who told me that she went into a store and saw that it was being robbed. She had on sweats and was actually wearing her bulletproof vest underneath; however, she left her gun in her car.

She started to back out of the store so she could retrieve her weapon, but a voice behind her told her to stop and get down on the floor. The robber had an accomplice. I told her had she had her gun on her and pulled it out the accomplice would likely have killed her. This was probably a rare situation, but this stuff is serious folks.

Now despite what happened to this woman, I advise that if you’re going to train yourself and carry a weapon make sure that, not only is it WITH you when you need it but that if possible, it’s IN your HAND!

Self-Defense Concept #2 – Keep It Short and Simple

Guys and ladies I know who practice sport martial art kill me sometimes with their way of thinking. This is because many feel like they are prepared for any situation they may encounter on the street, and this attitude is what leaves me shaking my head in confusion and disbelief.

Anyone who’s ever been in a real-world encounter like I have, where they were fighting for life and limb, knows that seconds can feel like an eternity… SECONDS. In fact, the average self-defense encounter is over in 6 to 10 seconds. Not minutes.

I remember when going through defensive tactics training at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center, we would have what was called “3-minute wars” where we had to battle fellow agents for 3 minutes nonstop. We would go all out, and at the end of the battle we were both exhausted and could hardly move, and then had to do it again with the next agent. It was a humbling experience.

So much for the long climactic fight scenes at the end of a movie, huh? Where the hero takes on the arch-villain for 20 minutes or so. Sorry, real life just does not work that way. In fact, you only store enough glycogen (a type of sugar) in your muscles for fight-or-flight work for about 7 to 11 seconds of full-out work. After that, your body must hold out for another 7 to 11 seconds to produce enough of that magic “juice” to go at it again.

The fact that many of the old school karate tournaments (and maybe even new school, I have not been to any in a while) set things up with a two-minute time frame on average is proof that sports fighting is not geared towards self-defense. Of course, all the rules that are nonexistent on the street help a little in the ring (no timeouts or tap outs in the street).

If you’ve ever been attacked, you probably know that it was over long before two minutes were up. Unless you’re running and hiding or pulling the school-yard-fight thing where it looks like a boxing match, you can’t physically keep going for longer than your muscles have fuel for.

In addition to this, a self-defense situation is NOT the time nor the place to be showing off your fancy karate moves, you know, jump flying sidekicks, spinning back kicks, etc. The attacker doesn’t care and, quite frankly, that kind of foolishness is just going piss him off and make him fight HARDER!

If you want to win – if you want to survive – if you want to wake up tomorrow on THIS side of the grass, you have got to keep your defensive moves simple and to the point. Do what you have to do to get him to stop – and do it fast! Period.

Self-Defense Concept #3 – There’s a Difference Between a Fight and a Self-Defense Situation

Again, you have to know why you’re there.

  • Are you trying to prove something?
  • Do you need to be right?
  • Are you trying to make a point?
  • Are you keeping from losing something that belongs to you?

If you are, then you’re in a fight – you’re fighting! It’s not self-defense, although you might be trying to defend yourself while simultaneously trying to inflict your damage on him. But, a self-defense situation is very different.

What’s The Difference?

What is the difference between a fight and a self-defense situation? I mean, both people are attacking each other, right? Well, not exactly. And, if you’ve ever been in either or both, you already know the answer.

Basically, a fight has two or more combatants who are willing participants in the fight. They WANT to be there. However, in a self-defense encounter there may be two or more combatants, however, at least one of the combatants, the victim – the target of the assault – does NOT want to be there.

Do You See The Difference?

While a self-defense situation and a fight might APPEAR to be the same thing, they are in reality, very different. Bottom line is that you have to lose any thoughts, fears, or aversions to fighting.

I don’t like to fight either (well actually, yes I do, LOL,) But I have become very good at fighting skills and dealing with a person who wants to fight or attack me. There is a big difference.

Final Thoughts

In Today’s world of violence, street crime, spousal and child abuse, and terrorism, it is no longer possible to live in denial. It seems that every day, more and more people are waking up to the realization that violence in some form has touched either them or someone they know. They end up finding out that self-defense training is no longer a choice – it’s a responsibility!

So, take these 3 concepts I have just shared with you and remember them. Don”t be surprised when it comes to defending yourself.

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65 thoughts on “Three Self-Defense Concepts You Should Never Forget”

  2. Everything, not just some things, EVERYTHING that was said here makes sense. I have been invited to so many karate classes and self defense classes and they are training you like I want to be there. I don’t want to be attacked but if I am I want to do something effective and painful and quick so I can get away while they are sorry they messed with me. Thank you all for this.

    Reply

  6. Thanks, Derek, for the free advice, and no shipping and handling charges! (Just kidding.) All you guys do a great job and provide a valuable service. Thanks for that.

    Reply

  7. I told my son a long time ago today people are not just trying to rob you are start a fight with you there out for your blood and you had better draw theirs first. So yes I agree with you 100%.

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  8. Very solid information, thanks again for helping us stay focused on reality rather than how cool some fancy moves look and I emphasize look not work.

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  9. Great stuff!
    It boils down to you have to want to win. You have use whatever you need to in order to prevail.

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  12. Thanks for those essential concepts. During my twenty years as a prison correction officer I saw a terrific evolution in the self-defense concepts and techniques we were taught. In the early years the self-defense instructors were valiantly, but futilely, trying to teach a program developed by a late, beloved aikido master who had worked in the system. mostly aikido based wristlock takedowns that only an aikido master might be able to pull off in a real self-defense situation. The attitude seemed to be heaven forbid that we would injure an inmate who was attacking us. By the time I retired in 2016 they had reworked the program so that we were learning techniques right out of the Fightfast catalogue of real-world self-defense. I voluntarily surrendered my only firearm to our outstanding police (they asked nicely!) after an event that was triggered by the PTSD that allowed me to retire early. Fightfast has given me so much valuable material to enhance the skills I have learned over the years, and provided me with weapons that I can carry legally, and that I always have on me. Thank you, and God bless.

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  13. Very helpul.
    I am glad I found fight fast, although I will have to learn everything single thing by myself and it will take a lifetime to get there.
    Anyway I still using internet or anything else.
    I love krav Maga.
    Thank you

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  15. I have been in a few self-defense situations in my 62 years of life I was lucky My last strike caught him in the throat it didn’t kill him
    but I bet he wished I had . I hope I never have to do that again I have also learned a lot from the free lessons you have posted and my
    Krav Maga Dvd that I got from you please keep up the good work and I really do appreciate it have a blessed day and a long and prosperous

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  18. Thanks for the info. I am old and disabled and often wonder what to do to defend myself if I am attached .

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  19. At 68 years old, I did a total of perhaps 4-5 years of martial arts. At times, I had moments of feeling some success. However, in reality, my overall proficiency was mediocre, at best. Someone asked me a few years ago what I had learned. I replied that I truly realized that there are people (men & women) who can seriously hurt me! The reality really kicks in when you do some serious sparring. Only a 2-3 minute bout can be exhausting. In my early 60’s, I had my hand broken and my rib cracked. I am amazed at how professional boxers can last as they do!
    Surely, you truly proficient “tough guys/gals” are chuckling at those who are not (like me). My first defense is avoidance. If I have to respond to an attack, there are just a few moves I will go to in what “bag of tricks” I may have. Quick & 100% brutal is the only way to go to end it fast and “get my fragile ass out of Dodge”!

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  20. Always- basics, basics,basics and if it is going to happen- get violent faster than your attacker!

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  21. While I enjoyed your story, it didn’t describe what methods to use to take out the attacker. So, it wasn’t of much use to me. I have been both attacked & been in a fist fight. I would have liked more information!
    Thanks,
    Suzann Blake

    Reply

  22. wanted to thank you for the deal on the fang i luv it it is one of my go to knifes well i have a few knifes my wife thinks i am nuts have a good one

    Reply

  23. Derek put it in plain, understandable language that was easy to grasp. I hope I never have to use any of the training I have been getting from Fight Fast but at least I have a better chance of getting out alive. Thanks Fight Fast.

    Reply

  24. Very good article and advice, pertaining to the police wont arrive till its over with. Basically to take statements and eye witness accounts. Which means Mr Smith is right that we are responsible for our own safety. So its in our best interest to train train and train somemore.

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  29. Good advice. Ive been jumped by 10+ people. And ive been robbed. Theres a very big difference between self defense and fighting. Most the time fighting your not going to do anything possible to put them down an get away. Self defense when your life is in real danger you do whatever is necessary including maiming and killing if you have to to get away.

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  30. Excellent advice. The problem is getting that person to act on those three. This includes myself. Constant reminders are necessary but must of the time the bad situation is a total surprise. Your not going to believe this. On the edge of El Paso I stepped out from behind a blue Post Office and was greeted with a large mountain lion. I was headed to my vehicle and armed. He swiped at me an cut the back of my left wrist and bolted into the brush. I was totally defenseless and unsuspecting. Yes! That was a very odd situation but human predators act the same. Good luck to anyone so work on number one. That is you and the top of the above list.
    Vic

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  31. Being aware is being wise avoid redirect understand your situation before hand and who your with , know that anything is possible in a situation, think fast look around what is at your disposal to use as a weapon element of surprise think like a animal kill the fear.

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  32. Excellent analysis. Clearly explained and absolutely spot on. The ‘Basics’ turn out to be the most important foundation for Self Defense – they do not lead on to the good stuff but are, themselves, the best stuff right from the start.

    Many thanks. I cannot wait to learn more even at my age – almost 70!

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  33. Thank you for the comments and observation. Very true and very helpful. However, could you add or incoporate the concept “fog of war/uncertainity factors” into the first seconds of an encounter?

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  35. Good morning,
    Thank you for these three critical, “ and eye opening” basics. I agree with you in that simplicity is perfection.

    ~Los

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  37. But it’s a Lose-Lose Situation if you get involved in real violence, and you can be identified. Either you get injured or you’re seen as the Psychopath who needs to be locked up. Here in UK we have lots of Closed-Circut TV Cameras, and there could be law-abiding bystanders who don’t want violence around their neighbourhood.

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  38. As a retired Marine, these lessons are great for either the novice or trained individual. There is truth to everything explained here, and individuals should take these lessons under consideration and practice, and take the threats in today’s society very seriously. It is sad that I’m todays world, if you do not carry a gun or some form of self defense weapon, you are essentially a EASY TARGET to most attackers. These lessons are a great weapon themselves to keep you, your family, or even civilians safe. Thank you FASTFIGHT!

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  40. “THANK YOU Mr. Bob Pierce!! Your products and “Valuable” information is very “BENEFICIAL” for me!! I sleep better!!

    Reply

  41. Thanks Derek. Excellent advice. Amazing the number of people who want to do roundhouse and spinning kicks because they see it on the television and in films completely forgetting that they have left themselves vulnerable as soon as they lifted the leg off the ground! Keeping it simple as you suggest is definitely the way to go. Hope people remember your advice if/when they need it.

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  43. I had to laugh only because everything mentor is SO TRUE. I do however have a much clearer understanding on the whole. Very good information. I think everyone needs to understand your message. Keep up the good work.

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  45. In high school and college I was a wrestler. We drilled, and drilled, and drilled on only 5 or 6 moves-50 years later, I am very sure the muscle memory would be right there if I needed it. Very little time was spent on the “fancy” moves because “Fancy shit don’t win; take downs, counters and pins win!”

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  46. You make some very good points,alas,ignorance ,arrogance and overconfidence is not something you can afford whilst in a real life situation,I have survived what should have been certai death many times,and left for dead,as a Young child,by a man of unspeakable evil,overconfidence .arroganxe and ignorance are only going to get you killed,if you are 12-17,you must push aside your childish bravado,it is not something you can afford in this situation ,you life may be at stake here,these sought of people don’t fuck around like your friends do.They want to kill you.They will stop at nothing to get what they want,remember that,people like to give it the big in these days but in all honesty ,I can garuntee that at least 96% of them are all talk,and have not seen the real world for what it truly is,when you are in this situation ,you must act whilst thinking ,but you must not let your emotions ‘get the better of you’ as I put it,because that will only get you killed,if you know how to use your anger ,use it ,but don’t let it cloud your thinking process,because that will also get you killed,anger and adrenaline can act as a boost and if used right can significantly increase your chances of survival,but relying on those two things alone will not be enough ,this is not an anime or movie or cartoon ,we are only human ,yes you might come across an extraordinary person every so often( I am one of those people ,I am very talented ,strong ,intelligent,wise and understanding,but I am not perfect
    ,hence my inner demons and my past ,which without I would not be as strong as I am today,what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger..hmmm?) perfection is impossible,there will always be a flaw in something ,trivial or not,you CANNOT deny the fact that it is still a FLAW. If anything were perfect in this world,we would not be commenting on this page,it’s as simple as that,but as the Dalai Lama said,we can all be a force for good,so why not try? Be kind when you can be kind ,fight for the sake of others who are too weak to protect themselves when necessary,but DO NEVER,EVER use your knowledge for your own selfish gain,without good reason,if you want to become a martial artist for just the name ,you do not belong here,martial arts goes a lot deeper than being able to beat the living tar out of people ,it isn’t as simple as you think,you see,martial arts WAS indeed originally made to leave dead and broken bodies,but nowadays it can be comprehended so much more,it can be interpreted as assuming equilibrium,balance,between the body and the mind,if you are going to fight ,make sure it is for a just reason ,time is a lot more precious than you think ,do not waste what time you have on This world ,there may not be an afterlife,for all we know,it’s not impossible,but it’s not unlikely either,as for the people of this page,when they fight each other,they are in fact sparring
    ,striving to improve,that is all I have to say for now

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  47. If a person pulls a gun or knife, do I really have to wait to see what they are doing? Action beats reaction.

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  48. It’s good to hear someone in martial arts talk some common sense No two fights on the street are the same so you must train the same way? Dereck knows what he is talking about thanks Terry

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  49. Great point about fighting and self-defense being different. An important difference is that fighting can get you into serious legal trouble. The law often calls it “mutual combat” and considers it to be a form of dueling… which it actually is, because both parties are willing participants. My belief is that it is better to try to avoid fighting at all costs. Trying to prove that you’re a “tough guy” or a “real man” can put you in the slammer or get you sued for all your worth. Refuse to participate in “C’mon f**ker! Step outside!” kind of crap. If the person tries to assault you, by all means, take him out. You can fight dirty, but try to end the threat more than wreak vengeance. A lot of people complain about the law being on the criminals’ side… but you should understand that they don’t want people killed or crippled for calling someone a name.

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