Brian R. VanCise
Personal protection training doesn’t need to be flashy, complicated or address every possible situation. (which is frankly impossible) What it does need to be is intense and have a well rounded approach. In Instinctive Response Training we try to have a well rounded approach that includes an understand of the principles and elements that make our system work.
We also have training that is includes some of the following:
- Weapons/tools 2. Kicking 3. Hand Strikes 4. Trapping Hands and Joint Manipulation and 5. Grappling
The above form the core nucleus of the physical components of IRT. We also have training in:
- Awareness 2. Avoidance 3. Conflict De-esculation and more in the mental portions of IRT.
There is a lot more to develop the spiritual strength of an individual but the following is essential:
- Personal Power Growth 2. Ritualization 3. Meditation
Besides all of the above you must have some pressure testing. Scenario based training, grappling and free sparring are essential. There must be some live training against a resisting partner. You don’t always have to have pressure testing in every class but you need some regularly enough to develop your timing and skill sets.
When it comes to personal protection one of the most important things to remember is to be in the here and now. Now meaning, right now in this time not hundreds of years ago. Your training in particular with tools should have a heavy focus on Firearms, Knives, Sticks and Flexible weapons. We are after all tool bearing creatures and if you are ever attacked it is more than likely going to be by someone with a weapon. If you know how to utilize weapons/tools you will improve your chances should you ever be attacked with one. Even better have a weapon/tool on yourself to give you a chance in a moment of violence. At least then you have the choice on weather to utilize your skills either empty handed or with a tool for personal protection from a violent individual.
If you are reading this from another system you should look at what you are doing and where you can augment your training. Since not all systems are broad based you may have to seek out training in areas where your system is weak. I advocate a wide variety of skill sets so that you have the ability to defend yourself in any encounter. That does not mean of course that you will not specialize in certain areas! Specialization is also very, very important!
Bottom line have skills that cover a wide range of potential violent attacks and be prepared for the worst. If you are in a principles based system like IRT then your skill sets will give you a chance in most situations. Principles drive the system and the practitioner. If you understand this then your skills will truly be formidable!
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.
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