Avoid a fight if possible
They are teaching increasing numbers of people keen to defend themselves from attack.
But for instructors of Perth's booming freestyle martial arts schools, the best fight is the one you can avoid.
Krav Maga expert Ron Amram says powerful and dangerous styles need to be coupled with an understanding of the consequences.
"The vast majority of fights can be avoided by developing awareness and knowing how to make sure you're not in the wrong place at the wrong time," he said.
About 5-10 minutes of classes at Mr Amram's Leederville school are focused on non-physical aspects of self-defence.
"Things like the escalation and appropriate use of force are the key theories that need to be acquired," he said.
A growing fear of violence and a desire for quick results is contributing to the popularity of Krav Maga and Zen Do Kai.
WA Institute of Martial Arts director Graham McDonnell says people expect faster results than traditional martial arts such as karate and kickboxing can offer.
"The tide is certainly turning on personal protection issues. With the world not being so nice, people definitely want a quick fix," he said.
