I am often asked why I dont advocate self defense training but instead recommend risk awareness workshops.
One reason is that its much harder to be effective than most believe. That may seem strange from someone who has practiced martial arts for over 45 years, something I found time for even when holding senior positions in large organisations. For the past 16 years one of my businesses is a full time academy mainly teaching the sports of MMA and Thai kickboxing.
Yes I teach self defense and weapons defense, but mainly to military contractors and those working in dangerous situations.
I strongly believe that the mental approach, physical confidence and muscle memory for effective self defense take a lot more practice than most realise.
I think it was Tyson who said everyone has a plan until they get punched in the face.