At Rise Above Martial Arts, we were recently asked an important question:
“Why don’t you teach Wen-Do? Isn’t it the best self-defence system?”
Our answer might surprise you:
There is no single “best” self-defence system and that’s actually the beauty of it.
The Truth About Self-Defence Styles
There are many effective self-defence systems, each designed with different goals, philosophies, and practitioners in mind. Some focus on striking, others on grappling. Some are rooted in tradition, while others are built for modern-day scenarios.
What works best for one person may not work for another and that’s okay.
Your body type, personality, comfort level, and goals all play a role in determining what system will be most effective for you.
The Real “Best” Self-Defence System
The best self-defence system is:
- The one you enjoy
- The one you’ll actually stick with
- The one that keeps you coming back to train consistently
Because at the end of the day, your greatest advantage isn’t a specific technique, it’s muscle memory.
When you’ve practiced something hundreds or even thousands of times, your body learns to react automatically. In a high-stress situation, that instinctive response is what matters most; often kicking in before your brain has time to process what’s happening.
How to Choose the Right Self-Defence Program
If you’re trying to find the right self-defence class, start by asking yourself or your perspective instructor the following questions:
Training Style & Focus
• Do I want to learn striking?
• Do I want to learn grappling?
• Do I want to learn defence against armed opponents?
Purpose & Philosophy
• What is the main focus of the program? (self-defence, sport, fitness, tradition)
• Where and why was this system originally developed?
• Who was it designed for (soldiers, civilians, women, law enforcement, monks, etc.)?
Mechanics & Effectiveness
• Does this style rely on strength, speed, timing, or strategy?
• What are the core principles? (leverage, centerline control, distance management, etc.)
• Are you taught why techniques work, or just how to do them?
Real-World Application
• Does the curriculum address common real-life scenarios?
• How realistic are the techniques for real-world situations?
• How does it perform against larger or stronger opponents?
• Are techniques adapted for different body types and abilities?
• Do you train against resisting partners?
Safety & Environment
• Are ethical and legal considerations discussed?
• What qualifications or certifications do the instructors have?
• Are instructors trained in First Aid/CPR?
• Is the environment trauma-informed and supportive?
Why You Should Consider Kuk Sool Hap Kido?
When people search for the best self defence system, they are often looking for something practical, realistic, and easy to apply under pressure. At Rise Above Martial Arts, we teach Kuk Sool Hap Kido, a traditional Korean martial art that blends Kuk Sool Won and Hap Kido into one comprehensive system. It is a “soft-hard” martial art that focuses on efficiency, circular motion, and redirection of force, making it highly effective for real-life self defence.
What Is Kuk Sool Hap Kido?
Kuk Sool Hap Kido is a complete martial arts system inspired by the techniques of the royal Korean guards. It was developed to cover all areas of combat, making it far more than just a sport or fitness activity.
Training in Kuk Sool Hap Kido includes:
→ Striking and kicking techniques
→ Traditional open-hand forms
→ Weapons and defence against weapons
→ Practical self-defence applications
→ Sparring and controlled partner training
→ Breakfalls and injury prevention
This wide-ranging curriculum helps students build real, adaptable skills for multiple types of self defence situations.
Why Kuk Sool Hap Kido Is a Complete Self-Defence System
One of the reasons Kuk Sool Hap Kido is considered among the best self defence systems is its well-rounded curriculum. At Rise Above Martial Arts, students train in striking, grappling, and defence against armed or unarmed attackers.
Self-defence is the foundation of the system. Our under-belt curriculum includes approximately 204 structured self-defence techniques, giving students a strong base in awareness, control, and real-world application.
Students learn how to respond to:
- Grabs and wrist holds
- Chokes and body control situations
- Strikes from multiple angles
- Ground-based or standing confrontations
Training emphasizes joint locks, pressure points, leverage, and circular redirection; allowing students to neutralize threats efficiently without relying on physical size or strength.
Self-Defence Training For Real-World Situations
Kuk Sool Hap Kido is designed for practical self defence, not just theory or competition. Students are taught how to stay calm under pressure, create space, and regain control of a situation safely and effectively.
This makes it especially valuable for real-world scenarios where awareness, timing, and composure are more important than brute force. The system teaches students how to recognize danger early and respond with confidence and control.
Why Kuk Sool Hap Kido Is Ideal for All Ages and Body Types
Because Kuk Sool Hap Kido focuses on technique, leverage, and redirection rather than strength, it is accessible to students of all ages and fitness levels. It is particularly effective for children and women seeking practical self defence training in a safe and structured environment.
Students build confidence, discipline, and physical awareness while learning how to protect themselves effectively in real-life situations.
Book a Free Trial With Rise Above Martial Arts
If you’re interested in learning more about Kuk Sool Hap Kido, we invite you to explore our other blog post for a closer look at the system and its training approach. You can also get in touch with us to find out more or schedule a free trial class and see the training in action for yourself. Call us at 705-626-7900 or email at info@riseabovemartialarts.com
