In Instinctive Response Training we try to explore the Martial Sciences through multiple areas of combat.  In a typical class we will go through the following progression:

Weapons/Tool Technique

Kicking Technique

Hand Striking Technique

Trapping Hands and Joint Manipulation

and

Grappling Technique

A typical class will start with 1 – 19 Striking Techniques with some type of tool. (usually a stick/baton) and then on to drills utilizing that tool or a different one.  We do not limit ourselves in training with only a few certain kind of tools but instead we work with varying tools of all shapes and sizes.  They can be found under these headings:

Projectile

Blunt

Bladed

Flexible

Natural

Man Made Everyday Items

Chemical

Mechanical

So with the above in mind you could see how it could lead to utilizing any type of tool at any time.  This is an essential real world skill set. (ie. understanding tools)  In the end this is very, very important and your body movement should always be able to incorporate a tool/weapon for defense.  Simply because few violent predators are going to attack you empty-handed.  So being able to utilize a tool is important as well as understanding their principles when you are attacked with one!

In IRT we work through the above areas which are also supplemented with a warm up, stretching, breakfalls and rolls.  We also do a lot of varying type of drills like 4, 6 & 10 Count, 1 – 19 Drills, Clinching drills, grappling drills, etc. (the list is endless)  We also have a core component of our system called Cornerstone Lunging Techniques that teach big bodied movement which in a violent encounter can be really, really useful.  In IRT we roll or grapple both without submissions and of course with them.  We also spar with full contact whether it is with sticks or empty-handed.  Contact is an essential skill set for any Martial Science.  Somewhere within your practice you need some drill that prepares you for physical contact.  Sparring is just one way and not the only way.  Eventually we get into the mind sciences and understanding the laws and what you can and cannot do to defend yourself. (essential skill set)  Conflict resolutions, meditation, intuition, etc.  This part of training starts as everything right from the beginning but as everything progresses as you go along!

As an IRT practitioner you will work hard training. (literally training your butt off)  You will gain knowledge and understanding of the technique and training.  You will gain faith in what you are doing because of that training and knowledge.  Finally in a moment of violence you should have the skill set to just let go and let your training and knowledge come forth with your faith.   

In the end we are trying to pass along real world Martial Science skills that prepares a practitioner for violent conflict and more!  A unique skill set that frankly took a long time to create and build the framework so that a practitioner could learn it and then do what every practitioner should and that is go out and explore what all the Martial Sciences have to offer!

See You On The Mats! 

copyright Instinctive Response Training LLC 2009

Brian R. VanCise

Note: This Blog is opinion only and Instinctive Response Training LLC nor Brian R. VanCise is responsible for any third party actions taken.