Fighting vs Self Defence
Most people are unaware of the crucial difference between Fighting and Self-defence — and that misunderstanding can and does ruin their lives.
Mix them up, and you could be the one facing charges.
Here are 10 key differences that everyone should know:
🔸 Fighting = Both parties are in it by choice.
🔸 Self-Defence = One person is trying to escape or avoid harm.
1️⃣ Mutual vs. One-Sided – One chooses to be there, and one doesn't.
2️⃣ Intent – Fighting is about winning. Self-defence is about surviving.
3️⃣ Walk Away? – Fighters ignore the exit. Self-defenders look for it.
4️⃣ Legal Risk – Mutual combat = charges. Self-defence = protected (if reasonable).
5️⃣ Mindset – Fighting: ego. Self-defence: safety.
6️⃣ Goal – Fight drags on. Self-defence ends fast.
7️⃣ De-escalation – Fighters escalate. Self-defenders try to calm or avoid.
8️⃣ Motive – Fight: pride or payback. Self-defence: protection.
9️⃣ Legal Lens – One's a crime. One's a right.
🔟 Aftermath – One ends in jail. One ends in safety (if done right).
👉 Know the difference. Teach it. Live by it. The SAFE Violence Prevention & Self Defence Certification addresses this critical distinction.
To learn more about the certification with instructors certified in over 10 countries, visit
Become a Certified Self-Defence Instructor | SAFE International
Keep SAFE!
Chris Roberts
