Martial arts, is there immediate benefit in ability to defend?

[PhilosophiX]

Does taking up a martial arts, provide immediate benefits (should one get attacked), or does it take years of training before it becomes any use should the worst arise?

I was thinking about taking up some form of martial arts and taking my wife along in the hopes that it might improve our chances should the worst arise but I was curious how long it would take before someones training is in any way helpful in these situations.

[LyricB]

When I was taking Tae Kwon Do I can't really say I felt any more ready to defend myself, but I was more fit for sure and I suppose that would have something to do with retaliating against an attacker. Maybe I just didn't get enough out of it, but I think a straight-up self defense class would be best for starters.

[brian]

I think one of the main benefits with martial arts is the feeling of being mentally able to face conflict, if you're forced into it.

I've only ever done a few courses - got a yellow belt in Jiu Jitsu which shows how little I did - but there was always the emphasis that you were learning defence, not offense, and that you should try and keep away from a fight if you can.

But, if you are cornered into such a situation, at least there's some measure of confidene that you can face it.

Personally I'd rather escape from trouble than invite it...

[OneofaKind]

In as much as I've done very few self defence classes, I do believe that they can make a difference.

Having said that, when faced with a real life situation you never know how you are going to react!

[megaman]

I think learning martial arts really increases your confidence. Still there are times when Im thinking can you really use it?
What if someone pulls a gun on you, will martial arts save you?

[vicki2]

I haven't done any martial arts training, but growing up I was trained to hunt and also am in good shape. A few years ago, it proved helpful when I was awaked by someone crawling through my bedroom window in Manhattan. I attacked the attacker first, and it worked. I know it sounds crazy, but I knew immediately that I had no other option. A scream of curse words and a full body block sent him running.

[OneofaKind]

Maybe I should give Martial arts another try.

I did a bit when I was in school, but I didn't really take to seriously.

[brian]

As long as it's fun...

Been thinking of taking Tai Chi recently. Got to find a local course now.

[juol]

I think it all depends on the one learning. If you can adapt well, I think you can use the things you have learned in 4 sessions or so.

[cesc]

I've never taken martial arts although I wish I learned Ninjitsu.