Here in Toronto, we have the benefit of Combat Classes with a very skilled and experienced fighter Jean-Paul Jauffret (and sometimes other experts such as Tom Oliati travel here to Toronto) These are specialized classes, distinct from the other self-defense classes offered during the week.
For many, this begs the question: What are Combat classes and how are they different from self-defense classes?
Combat training involves two people already engaged in a fight. It is at a point where avoidance or immediate escape is not an option.
Self-defense is virtually everything else – using your awareness to avoid a dangerous situation. It could be using a pre-emptive kick or other strikes to facilitate an escape. You might be in a position where you are caught by surprise (e.g. a bear hug from behind, sucker punch, etc..) You could be approached by someone who suddenly strikes or grabs as you try to calm them down. There are innumerable possibilities.
In the combat class, you are already embroiled in the fight – standing, on the ground, anywhere. Some topics covered include:
All of this is situated in the context of a street fight rather than a competitive sports fight. Safety in training, as our instructors stress, is most important.
Of course, self-defense and combat are not divorced from each other. You might escape a hold for instance and the attacker re-engages before you can escape. You are in a fight, in a combat situation.
This is where your combat/fighting skills come in!
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