Self-defence Myths

While many young people believe they know what it takes to protect themselves, the reality is clouded by myths that can lead to false confidence and dangerous decisions. While it can not be denied that some may glamorise violence or focus on the ability to fight, true self-defence is something entirely different. At Youth Safety Wales, we teach that real self-defence is not about aggression - it is about awareness, avoidance, and responsible action. 

Our approach prioritises conflict prevention, emotional regulation, and safety. Students learn how to protect themselves without escalating situations, and to act only when absolutely necessary, with full understanding of the risks and responsibilities involved. 

 

Here are 10 common self-defence myths.

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1. You Need to Be Fit and Strong to Take Self-Defence Classes.

Strength and fitness helps, but effective self-defence is about technique, timing, and awareness. YSW techniques are age-appropriate and designed to be effective for young people from all backgrounds.

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2. Self-Defence Involves A Lot of Hitting and Striking.

The goal of self-defence is to avoid and escape danger, not engage in it. More than 80% of self-defence involves non-physical ways to be safe. Any physical action is used at a last resort and is aimed at breaking away from an attacker, not engaging in violence or causing them unnecessary harm. De-escalation and escape are just as important as physical techniques.

Mental preparedness, situational awareness, and verbal de-escalation are the key elements of being safe. Recognising danger and knowing how to take appropriate action is just as important as learning physical techniques.

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3. One Self-Defence Class Is Enough

A single class can introduce basics, but ongoing training builds confidence, reflexes, and the ability to react under pressure.

 

4. Always Fight Back. It's OK To Hit if it is Self-Defence.

Fighting isn’t the safest option. In some situations, escape, compliance, or calling for help might be the best response. Any physical interaction with another person is regulated by Law and the use of self-defence must be necessary, reasonable and proportionate. The belief that you can hit someone and claim self-defence is a common mis-conception with young people and something we discuss in detail during sessions. 

 

5. Weapons Are the Best Defence and Carrying a Weapon Makes You Safer.

Carrying a weapon can escalate a situation and have legal consequences. Rather than being safer, people who carry knives are 60% more likely to be harmed, often a result of accidental self-harm, or the intended victim taking the knife and using it against them. 

 

6. Self-Defence Is Only for Females

Everyone, regardless of gender, can benefit from self-defence training. Safety and confidence are for everyone. All young people are most at risk of physical violence from their peers. 

 

7. Only People Who Visit Dangerous Neighbourhoods Require Self-Defence

Threats can occur anywhere. Self-defence is about being prepared, not paranoid - no matter your location. Research shows that people who have received self-defence training and display assertive body language are less likely to become victims of crime.

 

8. Someone Who Takes Boxing or Martial Arts Classes Doesn't Need to Learn Self-Defence.

Attending boxing and/or martial arts classes is great for physical fitness and confidence, but techniques differ to those taught for self-defence.  The mindset of sports based classes is to 'win' a fight rather than get away to safety, and opponents are matched in size, weight and ability. Please see our 'difference between Self-defence and Martial Arts section below. 

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9. You Can’t Defend Yourself Against Someone Bigger

With proper technique, a smaller person can protect themselves effectively against a larger attacker. Self-defence techniques are designed to manipulate the power of an attacker in the victims favour, it is not a test of strength. 

 

10. Teaching Self-Defence to Young People Encourages Them to be Violent

YSW provides expert-led self-defence training by instructors who are highly qualified professionals with extensive experience. They have delivered training to thousands of young people from diverse backgrounds, including those in the care of local authorities and even members of royal families. Our approach to self-defence is rooted in respect, responsibility, and risk awareness. When taught correctly, self-defence does not promote violence - it prevents it. 

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Students gain valuable skills to:

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• Recognise and avoid potential threats

• Regulate emotions under pressure

• De-escalate conflict effectively

• Understand the legal and ethical boundaries of using physical force

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Physical techniques are focused on breaking away from an attacker and are taught strictly as a last resort, with an emphasis on using the minimal amount of force necessary to stay safe. Our training helps young people make smart, informed decisions that keep themselves and those around them safer. Early threat recognition, situational awareness, and conflict resolution are skills to equip young people with life-long personal safety and emotional resilience.