How to Avoid a Fight Like a Martial Artist

A martial artist fights only when absolutely necessary - when there is no alternative. Follow these steps and you'll lessen your odds of becoming a victim or a defendant in a lawsuit.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Self-defense Courses
• Martial Arts Videos

1. Do not put yourself at risk. Stay fit and alert, refrain from excessive drinking or drugs and remain in control of your actions.
2. Never provoke or escalate an incident. Traffic rage is the norm today and the angry driver who cuts you off is seldom rational. Better to let it go than escalate an incident that could end in violence.
3. Cultivate your powers of observation in a situation that is unfamiliar to you. Be aware of your surroundings. Ask yourself, "Where are the exits? Where is safety if I need it?" Visualize an escape plan.
4. Be cautious. Watch anyone whose behavior is making you uncomfortable. Is that person a potential threat to you? Anticipate what could happen.
5. Tell an attacker loudly that you don't want to fight. Depending on the situation, it may be enough to end the conflict. If it doesn't, anyone watching has just witnessed that you tried to avoid the fight.
6. Be clear on your goals. Your first goal is always avoidance. If confronted, your goal becomes escape. If attacked, your goal shifts to self-defense.

Tips & Warnings

• Plan ahead to reduce your risk. Be sure you ask the concierge about the neighborhood around that great downtown restaurant before you decide to walk from the hotel. It could be a lot safer to arrange for a cab.
• If you use a weapon, be certain your attacker won't be able to take it from you and use it against you. Instead, consider using your hands and feet to punch and strike.
• Take every threat seriously. Better to offend than to become a victim.