[QUOTE]Originally posted by John_C:
Well - I'd say that the priorities for self defence would be;
Relatively Simple Techniques
Relatively Few of them
Techniques that work when people are trying to stop you doing them (and that can be tested/trained with something approaching the force you intend to use them at)
Techniques that don't leave you short if you have to stand and trade, go to the clinch or the ground.
If you live somewhere where it's permitted, you might also consider training to use, and carrying, a firearm. (Not much empty hand stuff is any cop against knives/bullets).
Personally, I'd say sod self defence, do something you actually like doing. You're more likely to keep going, and so more likely to get fitter as you train.
The best self defence techniques in the world are no bloody good if going to the gym/dojo/kwoon/dojang makes you so miserable that you pack it in after a week.[/QUOTE]
John has hit it on the head. My take on what John wrote is this:
1. It must use practical, realistic and legal techniques.
2. It must deal with the mind and body about actual confrontations and the aftermath.
3. It has to be something you will stick with because you like it and feel that it meets your practical needs.
That is my humble opinion. Keep us posted on how it goes and good luck.