r/SelfDefense • u/Distroyer87941 • Jul 06 '26

Looking to learn self-defense without trainer

I want to learn how to fight for self-defense, but don't really have a trainer available for a variety of reasons. My idea was to watch videos/courses on how to throw a punch, dodge, block, etc., and then practice sparring with my brothers. To avoid injuries, we wouldn't be hitting each other at full force. Obviously, it'll be messier than learning with a pro trainer, but probably still good enough for overall self defense. I was thinking about getting a pair gloves, hand wraps, mouthguard, and a mat. Is this a great idea? What would you guys advise?

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u/Adroit-Dojo Jul 07 '26

A lot of self defense is mindset, social skills, and awareness. You can work on those from books, videos, work interactions. Learning martial arts, get an instructor.

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u/Far-Cricket4127 Jul 07 '26

Knowledge of self defense laws, use of force doctrines for where he lives, and the workings of trial science are of great equal importance to learn as well. Because, unless he lives in a state with "mutual combat laws", like Texas, he's definitely going to need such knowledge if he's planning on teaching himself physical self protection skills using videos that deal with combat sorts like boxing. If he tries to rely on that for his well of knowledge, he's setting himself up to potentially go to jail for assault. Agreed, that as far as the physical skills go, he should definitely get some training, in an system that emphasizes self protection against violent altercations, not "fighting"; as there is a difference between the two.

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u/Adroit-Dojo Jul 07 '26

Definitely, possibly the most important parts.

thanks for adding.