Everyone says “fight back” — but what if fighting back gets you hurt?

We often hear people say, “If someone attacks you, just fight back.” It sounds brave. It sounds right. But in real life, things are not that simple. Sometimes fighting back can save your life. Other times it can make things a lot worse.At C.O.B.R.A. we teach that self defence is not just about throwing punches. It is about making smart choices under pressure. The truth is, every situation is different.

When Fighting Back Makes Sense

There are moments when you have no choice. If someone is trying to drag you into a car or take you to a second location, your chances of survival drop fast. That is the time to go all out. Make noise, strike, escape, do whatever it takes to get away.If the attacker is alone and you can see a clear way out, then fighting back can be the right call. The goal is not to win a fight but to create space to run.

When Fighting Back Can Make Things Worse

Now let’s look at the other side. Imagine being held up by two armed men who just want your phone. If you try to fight, you could get shot or stabbed for something that can be replaced. In that case, your best move is to stay calm, give them what they want, and focus on getting away alive.Fighting back also becomes risky if you are surrounded, outnumbered, or in a place with no easy exit. Sometimes using your voice, your posture, or simple compliance can keep you alive until you can escape safely.

The Real Goal

The real goal of self defence is not to fight. It is to survive. Fighting back is only one tool in the toolbox. Before you use it, you must understand the situation, the threat, and your chances of success.At the end of the day, courage is not just about throwing punches. It is about knowing when to act and when not to. Smart beats strong every time.

About C.O.B.R.A.™ Self-Defense South Africa

C.O.B.R.A.™ Self-Defense South Africa provides the gold standard in reality-based self-defense training, drawing on extensive real-world experience from law enforcement, corrections and protective services. We deliver professional in-person training for corporates, private groups, families and friends, as well as structured online programmes.

For enquiries, please contact us:

Email: info@cobradefense.co.za

Cell: 082 299 9117  

Website  www.cobradefense.co.za.

When Self-Defense Is a Must, Nothing Else Will Do.