Renbukai Karate of Elk Grove

I see all these different fighting blogs on facebook. I just read a post about defending yourself against a knife. There are several things that you have to consider.
1. Is someone I care about in jeopardy? More or less, is it just me I am defending.
2. Am I backed up in a corner with no options?
3. Can I run without someone following me?
4. Are you wearing a belt or is something you can use as a weapon to defend yourself with. Car antenna?

If not, do (2) things. First determine the will and then determine the skill.
I have never been attacked by someone with a knife that was serious about doing me harm so I can't discuss fight scenarios as
there are so many intangibles.
I agree that most knife fights are stabs and not slashes so disarming through controlling is important. Not going to the ground is also important. You don't want to be stationary target. Always moving and not giving them your back. Distance is important. Show conviction in your movements. Predators don't like prey that fight back.

Meditate daily. Discipline your mind and your body will follow.

When you get knocked on your butt, get right back up and smile.

I am working with my karate class about living in the moment (Zen) and removing fear as an emotion during our training. Fear is defined as concern of what may or may not happen. Being aware of the presence of danger is important but when practicing Kumite fear must be absent to be effective.

The ultimate goal in Kumite is to move without thought.

The perfect kiai is when everything comes together in one unified action. Mind, Body, Spirit and Breath...