Better to Be Judged by 12 Than Carried by 6: The Bushido Approach to Real Self-Defence
- Bushido Martial Arts
- Nov 16
- 3 min read
At Bushido Martial Arts in Stockport, we believe that self-defence training should prepare students for real-life situations, not just for sport or competition. One of the guiding principles behind our teaching is the saying, “Better to be judged by 12 than carried by 6.”
This phrase may sound intense, but its meaning is rooted in calm thinking, responsibility, and awareness. It is not about violence or aggression. It is about making smart decisions under pressure and developing the mindset to protect yourself and your loved ones safely and legally.
1. What the Saying Really Means
“Better to be judged by 12 than carried by 6” is an old self-defence proverb. The phrase refers to the idea that it is better to face a jury of 12 people in court for defending yourself than to lose your life by not acting when you needed to.
At its core, this theory is about survival and measured action. It does not promote fighting or unnecessary confrontation. Instead, it reminds martial artists that their training exists to keep them safe when there is no other option but to protect themselves.
At Bushido Martial Arts, we teach this philosophy carefully and responsibly. We make it clear that self-defence is not about ego or aggression. It is about control, awareness, and making the right choice in high-stress moments.
2. How Bushido Applies This Philosophy in Training
Our training focuses on calmness, control, and clarity.Every student at Bushido learns that the most powerful tool in self-defence is the ability to stay composed under pressure. When adrenaline hits and the body’s fight-or-flight response activates, most people either freeze or react without thinking.
Through structured, progressive training, we help students:
Control their emotional response to fear or threat
Assess danger quickly and make logical decisions
De-escalate situations before they turn physical
Use their training only when absolutely necessary
Bushido’s approach is not about creating unrestrained fighters. It is about building calm, capable, and respectful individuals who understand the responsibility that comes with knowing how to defend themselves.
3. Why Calmness Beats Aggression Every Time
An uncontrolled reaction can turn a self-defence situation into a serious legal problem. That is why Bushido students are trained to act with restraint.
We teach that real strength is calm strength.If a confrontation can be avoided, it should be. If words or distance can prevent violence, that is always the first option. But if an attack happens and there is no escape, students are trained to respond effectively, confidently, and proportionately.
This balance between readiness and restraint is what makes Bushido Martial Arts so different from many combat-focused systems.
4. Understanding the Responsibility of Self-Defence
Self-defence is not just about physical ability. It is about judgment. We remind all our students that they are responsible for their actions both during and after any confrontation. Knowing when not to engage is just as important as knowing how to respond.
Our instructors continually reinforce the legal and moral aspects of self-defence. Students learn that while it is important to protect themselves, they must also understand what constitutes reasonable force under UK law. This awareness helps prevent overreaction and builds true confidence rooted in understanding, not fear.
5. The Bushido Difference
At Bushido Martial Arts, we take pride in teaching self-defence that is realistic, responsible, and ethical. Our system combines Freestyle Karate and Japanese Jiu-Jitsu, offering a complete approach to both stand-up and close-contact defence.
We believe that every student should leave training feeling more confident, not more aggressive. Our classes develop:
Awareness and avoidance skills
Calmness under pressure
Physical and mental control
Respect for the responsibility that comes with skill
By following the philosophy of “Better to be judged by 12 than carried by 6,” our students are prepared for the real world in a balanced, thoughtful way.
6. Why Families in Stockport Choose Bushido Martial Arts
Families across Stockport and South Manchester trust Bushido Martial Arts because we go beyond kicks and punches. We teach values, decision-making, and control.
Our classes at Bridgehall Community Centre are open to adults, teens, and children, creating an environment where families can train together, learn together, and grow together.
Whether you are learning for self-defence, confidence, or peace of mind, Bushido offers training that respects the power of restraint as much as the ability to defend.
Train with Bushido Martial Arts in Stockport
If you want to learn practical self-defence from experienced, responsible instructors, Bushido Martial Arts in Stockport is the ideal place to start.
Train smart. Stay calm. Protect yourself with confidence.
Written by Bushido Martial Arts
Bushido Martial Arts is a respected self-defence academy based at Bridgehall Community Centre in Stockport. We teach Freestyle Karate and Japanese Jiu-Jitsu, combining traditional martial arts discipline with practical, real-world application. Our philosophy focuses on calmness, awareness, and controlled response, helping students of all ages stay safe and confident in any situation.
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