Fighting is often seen as a negative thing. It’s understandable why – violence is generally considered undesirable, and most people would say it should be avoided whenever possible.
However, thinking that we can always avoid conflict is unrealistic.
While it’s nice to imagine a perfect world without disagreements or violence, that’s simply not the reality we live in. Societies, unfortunately, are structured in ways that involve force, even if it’s just the threat of it. Think about law enforcement: the police exist, in part, to use force when necessary to prevent crime and maintain order. This threat of intervention is a key factor in deterring violence.
This concept of power through preparedness is fundamental. In situations where violence could be a factor, the person or group best equipped to handle a fight usually comes out on top.
Conversely, those who are least able to defend themselves are often vulnerable. We see this on a global scale, like with a smaller nation facing a larger aggressor, and on a personal level, where weaker individuals can become targets for bullying.
This is why countries invest heavily in defense. A strong military acts as a deterrent against invasion. Many nations possess nuclear weapons not because they want to use them, but to prevent attack. Lacking the ability to defend oneself can make you a target.
This principle is at the heart of why learning to fight is valuable.
By becoming a capable fighter, you actually reduce the likelihood of needing to fight. Skill in combat acts as your personal deterrent.
And, of course, if you are ever forced to defend yourself, you’ll be much better prepared.
It’s important to clarify what “learning to fight” means here. This isn’t about becoming aggressive or seeking out street brawls. It’s about developing real, practical skills through proper training – specifically by joining a martial arts gym and taking classes.
With so many martial arts styles available, choosing where to begin can be confusing. Here’s a simple tip to guide you.
It’s generally best to avoid purely traditional martial arts that focus heavily on forms and rituals without practical application. While interesting culturally, they often lack effective, real-world fighting techniques. Instead, focus on martial arts that incorporate sparring and contact drills. These training methods are crucial for developing skills that are actually usable in a real confrontation.
