What prepares a person better for self defense---boxing or martial arts?

When I was in high school, I took just over two years worth of Tae Kwon Do. I also dabbled a little in Ju-Jitsu, too, but not as much. I think I was fairly well prepared for any dangerous situation, but maybe not as much as I think. I also lifted weights regularly back then, too.





In recent months, I have started weight training again. I have also thought about going back into martial arts. But there are a few boxing coaches at my gym that give lessons, and I was thinking about looking into that. For some reason, I'm kind of thinking that good boxing skills would make for good self defense.





Thing is, I have recently started seeing a girl that I really care about. I think she may be the one that I give a ring to. I want to be prepared to protect her if the need ever arises. I really love her, and I want to keep her safe. That's why I'm interested in knowing this.





Thanks in advance.

What prepares a person better for self defense---boxing or martial arts?
One of the most successful boxers was trained how to execute effective punches by a Martial Arts instructor. Whatever you decide to learn I suggest you practice at least 3 times a week. Any combat style of self defense is what I suggest. I would observe the instructor first to make sure they are dedicated to teaching and when you are satisfied join the class. There are so many styles out there that claim to be the best. Most of them are useful in an attack situation but the truth is the style that works the best for you is the best style to choose. Remember, anything you learn from a dedicated instructor is not a waste of time. I teach Kenpo Karate but I incorated all that I have learned into my cirriculum. Learn how to react to the unexpected in a manner that gives you control of the situation and you succeed in battle.


Respectfully,


Sensei Miller
Reply:I'm going to say Martial Arts is probably a better prep than boxing. Boxing focuses on strength and focus, but doesn't really lend itself to flexibility for a "self-defense" situation. I think martial arts offers more because instead of just using your fists to disolve the situation it focuses on more situations.
Reply:i would say martial arts is better self defense than boxing
Reply:I say who ever is the better teacher! Both are good arts in their own ways though I am an avid MA I still have a lot of respect for Boxing and Kick Boxing.





So both are good, finding a good teacher is what is most important here. Look in your area that you can go to and see what there are for schools of both MA and Boxing and check them out, see what they offer and how they train. See if you can sit in on a class or even participate in a free class or two? Once you do this you will find the teacher you feel fits you and teaches you the best.





A teacher and a student must have a good yin and yang bond between them in order for an empty cup to be filled with new knowledge. That is what you must do, empty your cup and find the best teacher near you that you can that will fill it back up for you!!





Best of luck!!
Reply:I'd say since you lift, boxing won't be as important. As it is just boxing, and if you get tackled you are ****** and your wife could get abducted that way. I say lift, run, and take Ju-jitsu. If it is a good place you'll learn strikes, combos, throws, chokes, breaks, pressure points, and ground fighting! Imagine all those skills. Just get a heavy bag at home and you can practice boxing. With martial arts, if you practice alot, you'll have alot of speed and if you're really fast they won't know what hit 'em. Also with the UFC popularity rising, everyone you encounter will probably try to do UFC styl and take you to the ground. But you JJ will cover that. Hope it helps!
Reply:Martial arts would be better for self defense overall. I'm not saying that boxing isn't any good. Boxing just deals with punches. What if someone grabs you from behind and traps your arms? What if someone pulls a knife on you? Not all martial arts will teach you weapons, but my point is that martial arts have more to offer.
Reply:you already know some JJ, TKD, learn some boxing--become a better MIXED MARTIAL ARTIST. that is what its about--being well rounded--That's MMA,
Reply:I would recommend martial arts.





standard boxing is very fair, which doesnt count for a lot in a street fight. martial arts like mua thai, kung fu and ju-jitsu are less sport orientated and more focused on taking people out.





dont get me wrong boxing is beneficial, it is incredibly good for the body, i just dont think the intent/focus is there.
Reply:What will prepare you for self defense better? Boxing is good,but limited. I love this question because it can be debated forever. In my opinion, try to train in a martial art that will simulate an actual street encounter(fight). I train in Judo and kick boxing. Both complement each other well, that is the reason why I picked them. One is a trowing/grappling style, while the other is hitting with all your limbs style. Depending where you live and what kind of enviornment you put yourself into, pick an art that is most complete. Preparing yourself in that way will result in a better chance of success.
Reply:Have you ever heard of Krav Maga? It sounds like what you are looking for is a little of everything and if you find a good Krav Maga class you and your girl can take it together. My husband and I took Krav Maga together and really, it was a great experience! It gives you strength, endurance and self defense. Check it out and good luck:)
Reply:I personally picked boxing because of its simplicity and rigorous training. I found many martial arts places that were so fearful of lawsuits that there was no real contact in sparring. Many of these places were too focused on the art rather than the practical aspects of self defense.





Conversely, in my boxing club the first thing I did was sign a waiver and register for the local boxing association. We did immediate contact drills (about 50%) and plenty of rounds on the heavy bag. Once I was in shape, I started sparring against much better opponents.





After trying 4 or 5 martial arts studios, I found boxing to the the fastest, no BS, preparation for self defense.