Martial arts and safety?

Martial arts is known to train your body to make your stronger than you actually are. I was of the opinion that every individual must be trained in martial arts so that he /she can take care of themselves and also of people around them. Because you know in India, people just stand as mute spectators than help the person in distress.

My son was just around 6 years old when he told me he wanted to join the karate classes that a trained coach (sensie) was holding at the society's club house. I was more than happy and enrolled him into the classes. He was happy as he was the youngest among the lot. It has been quite a few years now and he has quite a good number of silvers and broze that he earned in the tournaments that he participated in all these years.

If you see him fight with his opponent during a match you would be awe struck with his techniques and defence skills, but is he capable of shielding himself outside the ring? I would not bet on his skills outside the ring for sure. My son is undoubtedly strong for his age and can give a tough fight, but I doubt if he could get himself out of a tough situation all based on his martial arts skills. I would never want to see him fight outside the ring, for I fear that his skills are only limited to the ring.

I forgot to mention that he has been to 3 different Sensie's over the years as and when we were transferred from one place to another, but sadly none of them taught him the essential hit points that would help him loosen the attackers grip on him.

I hope my son learns the essentials very soon because you never know when you need them in today's world.