Three Approaches to Self-Defense Training

• Reaction Based Approach. Responses to specific attacks are practiced and memorized. Reaction based approaches are context-specific. If the attacker does “A” the defender reacts with technique “B.”
• Reflex Based Approach. General response techniques are practiced and memorized until their use becomes an automatic reflexive response. Reflex based approaches are context-free. The defender reflexively responds to an attack with whatever techniques seem appropriate at the time.
• Response Based Approach. Response methods are practiced and memorized, such as movements to a joint that would cause pain. Response based approaches are context-sensitive. The defender is aware, thinking, and sensitive to all the attackers movements and spontaneously improvises techniques in response to the attacker's motions. Instead of attempting a specific technique to an attack, you take what the attacker gives you and improvise.