Pressure Point Self Defense
Many myths and misunderstandings surround the use of pressure points in martial arts. When applied correctly, pressure point techniques can significantly enhance both skill levels and personal safety during practice and self-defense situations. Pressure points are specific areas on the body where energy flows or transfers most efficiently, typically located near nerve junctions that directly impact the nervous system, muscles, and surrounding tissues. The key to activating these points effectively lies in precision and accuracy, rather than brute strength or force. At MKC Karate, we incorporate standard acupuncture terminology to ensure clear communication among practitioners and to support a deeper, more informed study of Kyusho Jitsu—the sophisticated art and science of pressure point fighting.
Here are some beliefs held about pressure points.
Pressure Points don’t work. Well, pressure points, like many things in martial arts, actually work on a bell curve of effectiveness. In the general population, there is a predictable and measurable response to pressure point activation. Approximately 80% of people will exhibit a good and consistent response when pressure points are correctly targeted. About 10% of individuals tend to have a hyper or exaggerated response, while the remaining 10% may show only a minimal or subdued reaction. This means right away that pressure point techniques demonstrate around 90% effectiveness overall. By applying additional principle-based knowledge and refined techniques, you can improve this success rate further, potentially reaching about 95% effectiveness. Ask any scientist or researcher if a field of study with such a high success rate is worthy of serious investigation and study—the answer will almost always be yes.
You can’t rely on them exclusively in a “real” situation. Pressure points are the keystone of truly effective self-defense skills. They are the icing on the cake that enhances your overall technique. If you were going to strike someone, why not aim with precision? What do you have to lose by targeting these critical areas? Even if you miss the exact pressure point, you still land a solid hit, making your defense more efficient and impactful.
There are simply too many pressure points to learn all at once. The human body contains over 360 standard pressure points, along with more than 300 additional extraordinary points. Although the sheer quantity can seem overwhelming and intimidating, many pressure point experts choose to concentrate on just a small, manageable selection. A practical and effective approach is to focus on learning two key points per arm, leg, torso, and head/neck area. By studying these points thoroughly and becoming deeply familiar with their locations and effects, you can ensure that you are able to activate them accurately and confidently under stress in any self-defense situation.
Pressure point study (kyusho jitsu) is a universal and timeless body of knowledge that remains a constant element across all self-protection arts, no matter the style or discipline. Why not take advantage of these vital techniques? They exist naturally within the human body’s structure and response system. You have nothing to lose by incorporating them into your training, and with the right instruction and practice, pressure points can significantly enhance your ability to achieve a positive outcome during a self-defense encounter.