When you learn a martial art, you train and learn to make your move in a certain way. You will get used to making and recognizing those moves. It would be easier to act fast if you understand what's going to happen before it happens.
You see a punch coming. When the punch touches your body, there is not point in blocking that. You have already got hit. If you participate in a fighting competition, you know it very well. If it is a boxing match, you can expect what would happen. If it is an MMA match, you know how the opponent can strike.
So you are prepared beforehand. At the same time, you are not allowed to make any move in a fighting competition. There are rules. And you have to follow the rules, otherwise, you cannot fight.
When you fight in the street for self defense, you do not know what the attackers are capable of doing. There are no rules and no time limitations. You can get hit anywhere, no referee will come to stop the fight.
Your mindset and strikes are different when you fight for self defense. This is not a game, of course, you are not there to play. All you want is to defend yourself and get out of there safe.
If you understand the situation and what attackers are about to do, you can make your move to defend yourself effectively. Please do not do anything to show off. This is not a time to impress someone. And if you get any chance to get out of there, just leave.
What do you do in a situation like this? Please feel free to share your thoughts in the comment section. I really appreciate your support and feedback.
Stay safe. Always be happy!