The idea that self-defence can be learned in a single class is a dangerous fantasy. For decades, people have been sold the belief that a few quick lessons will prepare them for a real-world confrontation. This is not just misleading—it is outright false. Self-defence is not a checklist of techniques or a set of memorised moves; it is the ability to physically and mentally handle confrontation, something that can only be achieved through dedicated training. The reality is that in any moment of high stress, an individual does not miraculously rise to the occasion but rather falls to the level of their training. If that level of training is little to none, then any so-called self-defence skills are useless.
It is a well-established fact that motor skills must be repeated thousands of times before they become automatic. Studies show that for a movement to become instinctual, it needs to be performed between three and five thousand times under realistic conditions. The reason for this is simple: in moments of high stress, the brain does not have time to process complex sequences. If an individual has not drilled a particular technique extensively, it will not come naturally when they need it most. One-off self-defence courses fail to account for this reality. They provide a false sense of security, convincing people that they are prepared when, in fact, they are not.
Another issue with the conventional approach to self-defence is that it assumes a person will be calm, aware, and ready to execute the moves they have learned. This could not be further from the truth. Real violence is not choreographed. It is chaotic, fast, and overwhelming. The body responds instinctively, and without proper training, that response is often hesitation or panic. The notion that someone can take a class, learn a few techniques, and recall them flawlessly in a real-life attack is absurd. Without continuous training, those skills do not exist when they are needed. It is the equivalent of reading a book about swimming and then expecting to survive when thrown into deep water.
Self-defence is also largely a physical matter. Many self-defence courses focus on techniques but fail to address the fundamental issue of physical capability. Knowing how to punch or break free from a grip means very little if a person lacks the strength to execute the movement effectively. Strength, fitness, and endurance play a crucial role in a person’s ability to defend themselves. An individual who trains regularly in a combat sport such as Muay Thai is not only more skilled but is also physically conditioned to handle the demands of a violent encounter. They are stronger, faster, and more resilient, giving them an undeniable advantage.
Training in Muay Thai does more than simply improve fitness—it conditions the mind as well. Regular exposure to physical exertion and pressure-based drills teaches individuals to remain calm under stress. This is an essential aspect of self-defence that cannot be replicated in a theoretical classroom setting. Being mentally prepared means knowing how to react, recognising threats early, and having the confidence to assert control over a situation. Someone who trains consistently is far less likely to freeze or panic when faced with danger because they have experienced physical pressure before.
The reality of self-defence is that it is not something that can be learned passively. It must be developed through repetition, pressure, and conditioning. The belief that a quick course is sufficient is not only incorrect but dangerous. Those who truly care about their ability to defend themselves must approach it as they would any other skill—through regular training, physical preparation, and mental resilience. The only way to ensure readiness in a real confrontation is to commit to long-term training in a combat sport that exposes individuals to real physical exertion and resistance.
If self-defence is the goal, then the best possible investment is in strength, fitness, and consistent training. There are no shortcuts. There are no magic tricks. The idea that someone can acquire life-saving skills in a few hours is not just naïve—it is reckless. True self-defence is a commitment, not a crash course. The strongest, fittest, and most well-trained individual is always in the best position to protect themselves. Anything less is wishful thinking.
Scott Williams
Owner, Bang Bang MT
