Do we need killer instinct? by Tyrone TurnerWhite Collar Warrior ScholrCopyright 2010All rights reserved. On Internet discussion boards and ads in popular martial arts magazines, you always hear c…

[Tyrone Turner]

Do we need killer instinct?

by Tyrone Turner
White Collar Warrior Scholr
Copyright 2010
All rights reserved.

On Internet discussion boards and ads in popular martial arts magazines, you always hear claims about programs that will help you develop killer instinct, and that will teach you the combat secrets of some kind of military special operations unit. Apparently, they are doing well because how else could they afford all of that ad space? Darn crooks are reaping profits at the expense of ill-advised clientele.

As a martial artist, do we need “killer instinct?” I say no. One of my instructors, Roman Lutak, always tells us to have attitude when practicing our techniques. He explains that attitude doesn’t mean having a chip on your shoulder, but rather that you as a law-abiding, peace-loving citizen that generally will not attack another person without provocation, have the “might of right” on your side. Knowing that you did all in your power to avoid a confrontation (i.e. being aware, polite, and made attempts to diffuse a situation) will give you the serenity to defend yourself. One doesn’t need a killer instinct to do that.

I hear a lot of talk about people practicing possibly lethal techniques like neck-breaks, and lethal strikes with sticks and bladed weapons. Why bother focusing your training on these things? Now, knowing how to use and defend against weapons is highly recommended, but if you are focusing on slicing and dicing vitals, that is another matter all together. The law most certainly wouldn’t be kind to a martial artist that kills someone. Also, you run the risk of being sued for maiming someone or for killing them. How will their family survive without the now disabled or deceased person contributing his / her income?

It is probably highly unlikely that a civilian will have to kill someone. Of course, in a worst case scenario, one may be forced to take such measures, but how likely is that? Most violent incidents can be avoided. If you find yourself always getting into fights, you need to make some lifestyle changes because you’re probably hanging out in the wrong places and keeping company with the wrong people. Also, perhaps it is the person in the mirror that is the sociopath that brings out the worst in everyone they come into contact with. Help that individual become a better person. Maybe counseling, yoga, Tai Chi, or religion will help.

I am a black belt in an eclectic form of Jujutsu and a soon-to-be student of Martial Blade Concepts and the Goju-Shorei Weapons System, I have only had two fights in the last 20 years - thank GOD. In both instances the attacks came from a mentally disturbed person in the crowded streets of midtown Manhattan during broad daylight – not in a secluded back alley. As aggressive as they were, I didn’t have to kill them. In the first instance, a sweeping hip throw (harai goshi) stopped the attack immediately. Believe me, when someone is on the receiving end of a powerful Judo throw, they will cease and desist from being an immediate threat.

In the second fight, a solid step-in jab dropped the attacker, and comfortable shoes helped me get away from the scene. Yes I ran away. Making a quick escape is best thing to do because you do not know if the attacker has any weapons or if they are with others. It wasn’t killer instinct that saved me in either instance but awareness of my surroundings and the muscle-memorization of a few techniques that was achieved through repetitve drills and practice.

I have developed a new appreciation of some of the unique drills and concepts that I have learned like “The Rub-A-Dub,” “The Crazy Conductor," and "Peanut Brittle" as the flow drills are called in Bob Orlando's videos. Through more regular practice of these exercises, I have been able to improve my technique by being more economical in my reactions and therefore much more effective. Hey, less movable parts means that less can go wrong, right? I implore my fellow martial artists to look into practicing these drills, along with the basics of their martial art on a regular basis. The training drills are truly the way to gain a greater understanding of martial concepts. There are several drills that you can do without a partner in the comfort of your home so don’t make any excuses and just do it!

Do not get caught up with trying to learn hundreds of techniques. In reality, the basics are all that you’ll ever really need. Focus instead on understanding concepts. I highly recommend a video by Bob Orlando called Fighting Arts of Indonesia, and a companion book entitled Indonesian Fighting Fundamentals. Mr. Orlando is a master teacher and you will not be disappointed with the way he explains concepts and demonstrates drills that really help you become “ready for action.”

Remember, when it comes to protecting yourself and those that you love, strive to be a law-abiding, peace-loving person – Not a killer.

Train hard and keep yourself safe.

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If you want to stay in touch via social networking, here is my Facebook address:

http://profile.to/tyroneturner/