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Are Martial Sports Better Than Self Defense?
It's Not a Matter of Who is Right

Carl Cestari

"People here may belittle sports arts...."

Who?

Almost EVERY "combatives" man of any note CAME from a combative sports background. Boxing, wrestling, judo, Fairbairn and O'Neill (SIXTH DAN-Kodokan Judo-personal student of Uchijima Sensei, a NEWAZA LEGEND) are PRIME examples of this.

But HERE'S a BETTER contemporary example:

Damian Ross.

Mention his name in wrestling circles here in Jersey. HE IS A LEGEND! Go to Yonezuka's Dojo (one of the BEST in the WORLD) and watch Damian randori against TOP-level competition. Go to ZENSHIN Dojo and "hang" with him for one of his PT workouts (the man does NOT KNOW the meaning of the word QUIT!). AND THEN...ask him to teach "self defense". See what he teaches.

I'll SAY it AGAIN. What a 20 or 25-year-old young buck and what a middle-aged businessman seek to get out of their training are TWO DIFFERENT THINGS.

As far as the "effectiveness" of ANY technique, well a FIGHT is a FIGHT. I know a guy who got his head split open from a blow with a lead pipe. Know what? HE STILL beat the shit out of the TWO assholes. SO WHAT?

You FIGHT like hell until either YOU'RE DONE or HE'S DONE.

AND why is it so hard to "get" that "close combat" is far MORE than "ax hands" and "tiger's claws". It's ANYTHING THAT WORKS. Cracking someone’s "egg" with a blackjack is close combat. "Kneecapping" some asshole with a bat or ax-handle is close combat. Working some street punk over with "knucks" or "sap" gloves is close combat. Using a shiv, push dagger, or a friggin' ballpoint pen is close combat. A steaming hot cup of coffee right in the mug is CLOSE COMBAT.

I "know" guys who have DECADES of training in sporting combatives. YEARS of competitive experience and TONS of knowledge. KNOW WHAT? Screw with them and the LAST thing they are going to think about is ANY "unarmed" mano a mano response.

As far as "building" attributes? OF COURSE! Athletics in GENERAL build many fine and useful attributes. BUT.... I know of MANY instances were individuals with NO athletic background AT ALL have overcome TREMENDOUS odds. I have also witnessed "champions" who were hell on wheels in the ring, and on the mat FOLD like the proverbial "cheap suit" when the rubber met the road for real. SO WHAT?

But here's the REAL issue at the bottom of this ongoing debate.

Someone who has spent years training in "karate" has invested time, money, and maybe blood sweat and tears in his pursuit. He WANTS to believe that what he has invested so much in will WORK. The same is true for Kung Fu, same for Aikido, same for BJJ, same for Boxing, same for Wrestling, same for Judo, same for Savate, same for FMA, SAME FOR ANY ENDEAVOR.

But that ONLY makes sense in the PARAMETERS of that SPECIFIC endeavor. Competitive Judoka expect to compete within the well-defined "rules" of THAT endeavor. They DO NOT expect to enter a shiai and be knifed in the guts by the other competitor. A boxer enters the ring and expects to fight under the agreed rules of the boxing commission. He DOES NOT expect to be shot dead from across the ring by his opponent.

Let's say you're a top-level collegiate wrestler. By circumstances beyond your control (real life does that) you have to face several desperate well-armed foes. You're given a "choice". Attempt to use your wrestling skills at which you are VERY GOOD, or grab a 12gauge riot shotgun.

Now let's say you're at a relatives wedding. The booze is flowing pretty good and Uncle Vinny gets a little out of control. Same choice as above. Use your wrestling skills to restrain old Uncle Vinny or grab the riot gun?

I DON'T GIVE A RAT'S ASS about "style", "system", or any of that CRAP. WHY? Because ALL I AM INTERESTED IN is what will SAVE MY ASS in the real world, when it's for all the marbles. I have spent YEARS in Judo, I get attacked for REAL and I grab a brick and pound the skel into mush. DAMN! I didn't get to use my Judo! OR.... I get grabbed from behind and manage to toss the skel to the ground with O-Goshi, AND THEN I finish him with the brick. SO WHAT?

If a "tiger's claw" works GREAT! If "hadaka jime" works GREAT! If a kick to the balls works GREAT! If a takedown works GREAT! If running the bastards down with my car works GREAT!

Anyone out there "getting" this! IT AIN'T ABOUT what is or isn't "BETTER" or more "EFFECTIVE". ANYTHING THAT SAVES YOUR ASS IS GOOD!


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Article may be duplicated with credit to Damian Ross and
www.theselfdefenseco.com





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Unparalleled Training and Customer Service
Dear Self Defense Company,
I have got to say once again that I apologize for taking such an aggressive tone. I usually get screwed over by just about everyone so I am very sorry for that. I have got to say that in my short dealings with your company I have received nothing but positive dealings and professionalism. Something I am not familiar with. I thank you for that. I look forward to restarting the training soon and I have sent out emails to all my friends who I thought might be interested in taking a self defense training course. If I can personally do anything to help promote your company in my city, please let me know. Until then, I'm training honestly and spreading the good word about The Self Defense Company.
Cheers,
Mick Debonnaire, Australia


Tom Lairson
"I got everything from the self defense training and more than what I expected"
Lakewood, NM

"The Best Self Defense Training I've Ever Seen!"
Hi Damian,
I recently received module 1 from the "The Self Defence Training System" (Wednesday 5th March 2008). To date I would say that the material I received is the best that I have purchased or even seen! Everything about the product/module is "First Class", product presentation, training content, and the instruction from yourself. "It definitely is first class"!
How many products are their out there, where firstly you watch a Instructional DVD, you then go onto watch the Practice and Drills DVD and then you are provided with a Training manual that takes you by the hand and shows/tells you how to practice and how to train the drills. "It could not be any easier".
"Great work to you and all those involved in this project Damian". I can not wait until I receive module 2!
Kind Regards and Thank You,
Andrew Hannah, Northern Ireland, UK.

"There is No Short Cut, Only the Truth"
Dear Damian,
What you are doing now is a noble thing, your contributions to the society and public through yourself defense program are immeasurable. You are giving people the tools to help themselves. They understand there is no 'short cut', but now they have a path through the woods.
Cheers,
Akmal from Malaysia

"Woman Finds the Time for Self Defense"
I have trained in Tae Kwon Do for 5 years, City Centre Boxing for 1 year and Hapkido & grappling for 1 year. I attend University full time and access their gym 6 days a week; so, as it stands my training now consists of cardio, weight training and endurance. At this time, my primary goal is to be the winner in an aversive situation; it is great to hear that self defense can be learned on my own; as I do not have the time available to me to resume martial arts training; you have inspired hope within myself; and for that I thank you.
Have a great day,
Lisa Halley, Canada

"Man Builds His Own "Dojo" Around The Self Defense Training System"
Hello Damian,
All I can say is Wow! I got to preview Module One with a friend and I REALLY like it.
We started working out together and are getting some incredible results (we're even looking to expand our workout area with some mats!)
Thanks again, and I can't wait for Module 2!
Don Witt, Michigan

"BJJ Fighter Finds He Can Still Train Injured"
The Self Defense Training System is great and it's especially timely for me. I've been training BJJ for almost 10 years and I've got a sports hernia that has kept me from any rolling since November. Since I received the SDTS, I've been able to train with your materials even with the injury. I especially like the "how to train" aspect of it.
Best of luck with the program, I'm looking forward to the rest of it.
James Nesbitt, Detroit, MI

"Blackwater Instructor Puts The Self Defense Training System to the Test!"
Hello Damian,
This is Mitchell McCray out here in Afghanistan thanks a lot I received the package you sent the DVD and reading material are great, I use it as reference material. All of what you have in your first Module "Essential Self Defense" I have been teaching out here with great success! I look forward to receiving the next package and returning home in order to train with you!
Thanks again,
Mitchell McCray
Primary Combatives Instructor
Blackwater worldwide
Afghan Border Police Training Program
Afghanistan


"Life Long Martial Artists and Retired Chicago Police Officer finds a Home in The Self Defense Company Professional Instructor Program"
Hi Damian,
I have to tell you that I really admire your program. The actual training format and sequence and techniques are nothing new to me. I didn't get the chance to tell you but I've been 'into' reality self defense probably longer than most, if not all, of your constituency.
For historical reference, I've been at war with 'traditional martial arts' training since the beginning and have made 'enemies' along the way. All through my traditional 'rank' advancements and after training I would come back to the dojo after a hard day as a Chicago Police Officer and dare to argue with the sensei about the fact that most of the stuff he was brainwashing the students with just didn't work in the real stinking street. Because I was just out there and tried it for real! This, of course, was heresy! But then after I became a 'traditional black belt' and competed and routinely beat them at their own game, some of them began to listen.
All these '8th Dan masters' really used to get angry at me. But just as you do, I felt they were doing a disservice to people by not stretching their school lessons to include real self defense training. I mean, you can show people something that really works and is worth something and still make money can't you?
I was often accused of having 'no respect' for the arts. However that was not true. Martial arts training has literally saved my life on way more than a few occasions. It proved more valuable in the mental discipline value of it...but I just didn't like they way some of these guys were hiding the truth. I learned the serious reality difference between the martial 'art' form, that these guys were trying to pass off as some supernatural 'mystical power', and serious kill or be killed kinetic bodily interaction which is what really happens on the street. I saw it happen day after day on the mean streets for many years.
...nevertheless, I and a few others remained under the radar for years and those who accomplished in the refusing to sell-out to ridiculous "day care" programs and the like. My main point is that I have been waiting for something like this for a long time: a progressive movement designed to eventually 'trump' the traditional martial arts fantasy world and bring the physical defense training paradigm into the new millennium.
And you are leading it! This is great! I'm also even more impressed with your business plan approach to this. You attack every angle from magazines to computer ads to market guidance, to hands on instruction.
And you are on it and all over it incessantly. This must obviously be the way you fight, nuclear bomb style, and is obviously the key to being a winner. And I'm with you on it.
Thanks Again,
Pete Lipa, Instructor
The Self Defense Company, Colona WI


"Finally a Direct and Honest Approach To Self Defense Training"
Damian,
I wanted to thank you for the excellent information you are sharing in The Self Defense Training System. I had ordered another close combat training course recently and I can honestly say that I learned more from Module 1 "Essential Self Defense" than I did from the entire package of fluff I received from the other company!
Your teaching style is direct, honest and you don't hold back from giving the students more than their monies worth. I compliment you on your ability to take information and break it down into digestible bites that can be learned quickly and easily.
Keep up the good work and again, thank you.
Walter R. Heinze, Arizona

"This is just like the Close Combat They Taught in the Foreign Legion"
Damian,
The methods I saw in The Self Defense Training System Module 1 seem to be about the same as my step dad taught me from the French Foreign Legion in the 1960's. All the techniques are simple, basic but very effective. This is top notch training a lot of shock and awe like the training we received in the SAS(British Special Air Services).
Again, thank you for your understanding and customer service; you seem to be one of the honest traders on the net (as you know there are a lot of crooks out there).
Very Best Regards,
Roy in the UK

Disabled Woman Finds Strength With The Self Defense Company
Dear Damian,
I must commend you on your dedication to your passion. I read every article you send me and find myself quite impressed with your words and dedication. I am a 43 year old disabled female. I use a cane and have chronic pain in my lower back and both legs, more so in the knees. My upper body strength is pretty good; I lift small weights every morning. I believe the self defense training system will be beneficial to me as a disabled person. I often think that if I were to ever get mugged I would surely be screwed because I literally can't run to get away. It is a big fear for me since I live in Lincoln, Nebraska and certain areas are pretty tough around here. I look forward to continue training in your methods. Thank You for hearing me.
With most sincerity,
Eileen Smith
Lincoln, Nebraska


"Something EVERY Martial Artist Should Know"
I've been watching all night and am on the 3rd cd. I think it's great! It's something every martial artist would feel stupid for not knowing and what others would think is genius.
I've kind of got to think hard on this, I'm definitely going to keep training. I can't wait to get to the weapons modules.
Thanks for sending the test drive!
Micayla Presley
Deer Park, Montana


"Black Belt Instructor Adds The Self Defense Training System To His Curriculum"
Damian,
I want to thank you for selflessly providing this information. The first module was in-depth and concise at the same time. I even enjoyed reading the literature.
We implemented the drills. The information has allowed for us to enhance our Applied Defence Systems (ADS) program. These valuable tools and combat principles have increased the realism and value of our self protection system.
Wisdom = Knowledge + Experience - Module One incorporates it ALL. Thank you for selflessly sharing these gems with the world.
Respectfully,
Reuben Bean
Bermuda


"The Self Defense Training System Is the Diamond Standard For All Martial Arts Training Systems"
Damian,
You have taken close quarters combat to it's zenith, the material contained in Module 1 is superlative, there is nothing else like it on the market, I thought that CORCT 1 & 2 was as good as it gets but I was wrong, this material breaks new ground, what you have created here is future-proof, this is the diamond standard that all else has to aspire to. I am very proud to be one of the first to own this material.
Thank you for producing The Self Defense Training System.
Warmest Regards,
John Walker
United Kingdom


Former Student Sends His Regards From Iraq
Sensei Ross,
I'm sorry this will be informal but there is good reason. A few years ago I was a student of yours for a matter of months. My name is Ryan Schumacher from Pompton Lakes. I just got back to my firm base after a foot patrol in Ramadi, Iraq. I'm about to rack out but I wanted to get in touch about your video system and some tips on a combat oriented training program in the weight room because I know you're all about the real deal which is awesome for someone like me.
I hope to here from you soon.
Lcpl Ryan J Schumacher, USMC

"Self Defense Company Professional Instructor Fills His First Class!"
Damian,
I thought you might want to here the latest...I'm getting about 60% of my website views from theselfdenseco.com website referrals (about 10 new hits a day now!).
I'm getting so many report downloads and phone calls that I am forced to start classes earlier than I had anticipated (People are CALLING ME! I haven't had to do a single follow up... the website and auto responder report works!).
Due to situations with my "day job", I was going to really get things kicked off at the end of Feb. However, I am now forced to start teaching next week with a full class. Here is the amazing part... This is 100% all from the website! As a result, I am also launching my marketing campaign this week (sooner than anticipated). Even more amazing (to me anyway) is that about half of the people calling me already have black belts in another martial art!! This speaks volumes as to the credibility and quality of the program.
Clint Bodungen, Instructor
The Self Defense Company Houston, TX


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