If you really want to learn how to defend yourself, you'd be better off seeing these guys. Krav Maga is less about "art" and more about hurting people.
Yobbo, that is a terrific site, thanks, but let me stress that there is nothing showy or arty about Bujinkan. Bujinkan certainly is designed to be practical in warding off attacks and getting out of trouble.
Some martial arts regimes are of dubious value in keeping care of oneself out in the streets, that is true. It does bug me how some martial arts are portrayed in the movies.
However, as you are in London, I would instead recommend a trip here.
If it had happened in London, he would probably be facing charges.
Ernie G: Not only would he be facing charges but his assailants would probably (successfully) sue him for compensation for their injuries, not to mention their emotional distress and breach of their "human rights."
I studied Shotokan for five years as an exercise/mobility method after an automobile accident. However at 60+, I prefer my other means of self-defense as a primary.
If it had happened in London with a german OAP certain Tabloids would probably be makeing SS/Hitler remarks too.
If you could see the throw she probably wasn't doing it right.
I've done martial arts since I was 11. I studied karate, judo, muay thai, and various forms of wushu/kung fu including lau gar and wing chun. I've also attended seminars in krav maga, and I have military experience.
My personal opinion is, if you are untrained and confronted by young men at night who want your money: THROW IT ON THE GROUND and call for help as loud as you can, preferably while running.
It is often (not always) impossible for even the most highly trained martial artist to fend off four men - or even two - with knives.
Having said that, sometimes you don't have time to make a conscious decision and things just happen (conversations between "hard men" at the back of buses or in pubs aside).
Just bear in mind that no matter a man's size or physical condition, or whether he has a knife or a baseball bat with a nail through the end of it: a good solid poke in the eye or a heavy stamp on the knee will put him out of action for a sufficient period for you to run and get help. This, obviously can be repeated for any number of attackers (also bearing in mind targets such as the throat and armpit and groin) and while it doesn't look pretty, it does the job superbly. Often once the first guy has gone down, the rest scatter because they're weak cowards anyway.
This poses the question: who needs big biceps, a knife, a balaclava, SIS training and lots of shouting to royally f#ck someone up? Just keep your head: meditation is a good way to cultivate mental control. Sometimes simply appearing unafraid is enough.
