What prepares a person better for self defense---boxing or martial arts?

When I was in high school, I took just over two years worth of Tae Kwon Do. I also dabbled a little in Ju-Jitsu, too, but not as much. I think I was fairly well prepared for any dangerous situation, but maybe not as much as I think. I also lifted weights regularly back then, too.





In recent months, I have started weight training again. I have also thought about going back into martial arts. But there are a few boxing coaches at my gym that give lessons, and I was thinking about looking into that. For some reason, I'm kind of thinking that good boxing skills would make for good self defense.





Thing is, I have recently started seeing a girl that I really care about. I think she may be the one that I give a ring to. I want to be prepared to protect her if the need ever arises. I really love her, and I want to keep her safe. That's why I'm interested in knowing this.





Thanks in advance.

What prepares a person better for self defense---boxing or martial arts?
Whatever you choose, you better know how to slip a punch and give one right back. Consider one of the most likely scenarios: an altercation develops at a crowded bar. How much room do you have to throw out the big kick, or get in a position for the big submission move? Not much! But one good jab breaks the nose, blurs the vision, and gives you the advantage.


I may be biased because I box, but that's just the way I see it. If I were getting into self defense in real world scenarios, I would look into Krav Maga. It teaches you how to take down multiple armed assailants with your bare hands.
Reply:probably martial arts as there is more of a defensive philosophy about the sport. Still I find your reasons a bit odd for asking the question. Why would you feel the need to know how to fight just because "she is the one"? I am sure she was safe enough long before you knew her. Report It

Reply:I think martial arts, it teaches you more self control, and has much more variety. Boxing is boxing, which is alright if you just want to punch someone. But stick with martial arts.
Reply:In the past I trained in Tae Kwon Doe for about three years. My opinion is why not use both your hands and legs. Hope this helps.
Reply:Look into Muay Thai. Its sort of the happy medium. And it also implements knees and elbows. Its fairly easy to learn. And most Muay Thai traing requires light sparring to learn the techniques. Which comes in real handy if you ever have to actually fight. Or if you want a well rounded approach, try MMA. A good mix of Boxing, Muay Thai and Jui Jitsu. I dont care how good you are at stand up. If you get into a fight there is a good liklihood it will end up on the ground. And Jui Jitsu will come in handy. And remember the most important thing if you get into a fight outside the gym. Martiual Arts are good. But dont forget that it is a street fight. Form and honor go out the window. Its called survival.
Reply:Boxing no question because you can k.o. someone with one punch no trouble. Plus you get that boxers swagger and feeling of power that martial arts cannot teach you.
Reply:Martial Arts without question. Ive done Thai Boxing and Ju-Jitsu for 10 years now and they seem to cover almost everything you might encounter. I think that starting from straight boxing can be harmful because it instills a one-dimensional approach. Just what works for me though.
Reply:Martial Arts is better for self protection. Boxing is only made to be used in the ring with rules, Martial Arts can be used for self defense in real life situations.