To use brakes or not use brakes is the big fixed gear debate. Originally fixed gear bikes were designed to be raced on a track where everyone is going the same direction at high speed. Brakes were not needed since there was no call for any quick braking. In fact any braking would be dangerous to the other riders who would not time to to react to any quick braking.
The riders are tire to tire at full speed not enough time to react to quick braking, so track bikes were designed with no brakes.
Now when track bikes were ridden on the street a lot of purist did not believe in adding brakes. They chose to go around obstacles or skid stop. A skid stop is performed by locking up your rear wheel and skidding. Not a very efficient way to stop quickly and it wears the shit out of your tires.
I prefer a brake. One brake on the front wheel is all you need. You can still apply pressure by pushing back on the pedals which will slow you down, but if you need to stop quickly a brake is the way to go.
Skid stopping puts a lot of pressure on you knees. I've got bad knees so I stay away from the skid stop.
The more you ride fixed the less you need to use the brakes. You just develop a keener sense for the road and since you are constantly pedaling you become one with the bike. Riding Fixed definitely makes you feel more in control..
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