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In cities and towns all around the world, people are beginning to ask themselves what they can do to be safe. What are the best forms of martial arts for self defense, they ask. What times of day are safest to go out and about; what neighborhoods should be avoided? These may be thoughts that you have entertained yourself.

The truth is, there are tons of resources for martial arts and self defense out there. And the truth is, there is no RIGHT program above all others. What is really important, if you are serious about gaining personal safety and power, is that you arm yourself with knowledge. Knowledge is power; everybody knows that.

To study self defense, you first need to look into a few different programs. It cannot be assumed that any martial arts class is going to turn you into a lean mean fighting machine. Many martial arts studios are set up to teach for sport. But the average customer doesn't know what is for sport and what is for true self defense and can therefore be fooled. One clue: Any martial arts studio with "Do" in the name is sport; "Do" means "sport".

If sport is not what you're after, you could consider a real combat self defense course. These can be in the form a combat self defense boot camp or even in the form of a DVD program. Self defense comes in many forms; and it's wide open so you're sure to find a program that suits your personality and your lifestyle. Combat self defense isn't the only option available, although there is a lot that you can learn in this type of program.

Don't assume that you are too mild mannered to learn self defense at all. EVERY person can and should learn self defense. Why would you choose to let a bad guy get the best of you? With just a few learned moves, you can effectively get out of a wrist grab or even a grab from behind.

Self defense is also not only about learning moves. Part of self defense is learning to avoid danger and how to deal with it properly if it does walk up and stare you in the face. Self defense can include learning to improvise weapons both at home and on the street. In short, it's about doing all that you can to ensure your safety no matter where you are.

Self defense is also not only something that you use outside the home. It is important that you take safety precautions at home as well. This includes looking around before getting out of the car; closing your garage door as soon as you drive in; and not opening the door to strangers. Self defense at home can mean that you have an alarm system installed, or that you have locks placed on downstairs windows. Locks are sold at hardware stores and are easy to install.

Your personal safety is up to you to ensure. Luckily, there are plenty of steps you can take to do just that.