919 Security: Self-Defense During An Animal Attack

Our friend Adam Walls has a nice post on other defensive measures to take versus an animal attack at his 919 Security Self Defense Blog. You probably know about our previous posts (About Dog Attacks, More on defending against dog attacks, and Confirmation of information on dog attacks) on dog attacks, so this is a nice supplement to that fundamental knowledge. As with most things, the best defense is not being there. Barring that, arm yourself with knowledge and that will give you the confidence to try to defend yourself. Read it.

Tags: Self-Defense, dog attack, security

TDA Training Journal 8/31/06

I am going to start journaling thoughts from my own training, things I've seen/heard, things to work on, and just thoughts. It will probably be in a bullet format, but may change as I go along.

• As we get ready to move, packing, painting, improving the appearance of our house to put on the market, it has really eaten into my time to research and post on things. This should change soon. I will be on travel some of the time. I had to ask some of the officers from my department to check in on my family, and one of them checked in as I was on my way home, not realizing that I was still in the area! My wife asked my why the pretty, young girl, who said she worked with me, was at my door. I some 'splaining to do when I got home!


• Mike has progressed so much in the past 2+ years, it's astounding. He actually pushes me in some handicap and limited sparring, and I have 30+ years. He's smaller than me, lighter than me, and doesn't wear his glasses or contacts when going. Nice job.
  Daniel is 1st Dan is MCMAP (the Marine Corps martial art), and a Black Belt Instructor, meaning he can certify up to 1st Dan. He wants to get a black belt in a civilian style, because that's a requirement to progress to MCMAP 3rd dan and higher.


• Mike, Daniel, and I worked on some things last night that I'd wanted them to improve on, and it went well.


• We covered the back elbow, vertical (upward) elbow, and the vertical (downward) elbow. These are some dangerous techniques! We drilled how to use the upward elbow to the solar plexus/sternum or under the chin instead of blocking the haymaker, how to use the downward elbow versus a tackle/double-leg takedown, or if you pull someone down for a knee, and the back-elbow for infighting or defending someone to the rear.


• For a non-lethal softening move, the vertical fist to the solar plexus, and especially a single-knuckle punch. They didn't like getting hit with the demonstration, but seemed to like the technique.


• I demonstrated and they drilled the forearm on each other for targeting, then on the shield for power. Empasize driving away, not using the shoulder, but the forearm, and striking upward through the target to lift them off their base so they can hit back. Almost anyone can resist a shot straight into their guard, but the upward angle drives right through and disrupts balance.


• We also talked about keeping initiative - continue striking or go for a takedown as long as you have the initiative, meaning you are driving in, on balance, and your opponent can grapple or strike back effectively because he is stumbling or off-balance.


• We also covered grab-releases. In a situation where you are not sure you want to grapple, you should release and keep striking. This keeps you from getting tied up and taken down. Sam experienced this on Saturday (8/26) when he was doing his 2-on-1. His tactic was to go in and engage the attacker of his choice. The only problem was he kept getting too close, getting grabbed, and Daniel wouldn't let him go, even when he was taken down, then Mike could grab too. We drilled releasing from grabs to clothing and arms/wrists. I think this will help.


• On the knee strikes (front), we drilled getting the hips through the target, using the forearm to break the Thai clinch, countering the knee with a takedown/tackle, and lever defense to rear takedown. We will post on some of these things for your edification (big word for the day).


• Then we did some sparring and stuff

Tags: kickboxing, boxing, MCMAP, combatives, elbow, knee, tackle, haymaker, strike, non-lethal, forearm

The day was just packed...

Last Saturday (8/26), we finished a lot of Sam's 2nd Dan test, including a long 2-on-1 round with Mike and Daniel (pictured). We then went over front and rear handgun disarms, followed by what I call Thai wrestling, which is where you stay standing and grapple for the dominant (inside) position in a Thai clinch.

It was a good day, with lots of material covered, and good progress made. Sam only has a little left on his test (form only), then will be promoted, after ten years!

The group then discussed taking me out after our next evening training, since I will be moving. Should be fun. More with technique breakdown, problems & solutions, etc. I have the screen shot pics done, and should have the video clips done in the next day. More soon.

Be patient...

I have a ton of material from this weekend's training, and lots of good posts planned. I should have one up later today, then a couple a day for the rest of the week. Lookin' good.

Big Changes

I have accepted a job in another area, and given notice to my employer - the PD has threatened, but not carried out a Taser and cuff plan to keep me here. It's going to be interesting, but what I will miss the most are my friends and training partners. Where will I find such friends as these, who absorb punishment like Chuck Wepner, who punch like Marciano, who wrestle like 80 year-olds ? Well, you know the rest. I will miss you my friends...

Floyd Mayweather Jr Jump Rope Video - crazy!

Tip of the hat to http://www.valetudo.com/ for this. Amazing!

Tags: boxing, training, mayweather, jump, rope

Painting day at the Teodoros

Light posting. I am at home today, painting. If someone can figure out how this can benefit my martial arts, please let me know. As far as I can tell it's just making my shoulders sore! Wasn't there a movie about something like this?

Is Knockout Power Important?

Does that seem like a silly question? I am now on a mailing list that seems to focus primarily on developing knockout power, as if that's the most important component to self-defense. Where does knockout power fit into the skills and attributes of someone who is prepared to defend himself? I mentioned that I'd post about this when discussing how to generate more power.

Wikipedia describes "knockout power" as, "the probability of any strike to the head to cause unconsciousness in an opponent (usually referred to as a knockout). Knockout power is related to the total momentum and precision of the strike. A kick to the temple has generally more knockout power than a punch to the forehead." One who has the ability to finish a fight in one punch or kick can usually end an encounter more quickly, and probably at less risk than someone who has to use an accumulation of blows, or who has to resort to grappling on pavement.

Let's consider this from two perspectives:

1. From a competitive/sport perspective, it's pretty important, and a big advantage. Just possessing a lot of power means that every feint, fake, and real technique has to be respected by giving an effective defense. In other words, no one will want to take a shot just to give one. With a consistent platform from which to develop power, usually a ring or hard/carpeted floor, it's easy to make striking pay off-just time it and hit hard to the right spot. Knockout power can also make a fighter who is getting beat "on points" still dangerous at the end of a bout. Boxing (and to some degree MMA ) gloves nullify the technique like eye jabs and grappling which can nullify the power puncher, and most of the time, kicks can't be grabbed or used for takedown openings, due to rules. In other words, most martial sports favor the power hitter.


2. From a self-defense perspective, the advantage is not as great. Power equals mass times acceleration. Knockout power also factors in the target. The problem with depending on power in a self-defense situation is that it's so easily nullified by jamming (being too close to generate speed or force), or by having poor footing (if you can't push off by gripping the floor with your supporting foot/feet, you can't hit hard). The first problem is distance - as the cliche goes, most fights end up on the ground, and punching/kicking power don't count for much there. Also, in a sport situation, a referee or stylistic considerations will keep you at the range where your striking will have the chance to develop power - a referee will break boxers or TKD players in a clinch, and most point fighters won't get that close anyway, 'cause they can't score from there. In a street situation, over-commitment by using a knockout power punch can also land you on your butt if you miss and slip, too (I have done this, I'm proud to say).

In summary, power has its place, and I'd rather have it than not, but it goes away quickly in when you're tired, on gravel/ice, or on the ground, so I don't worry too much about it. I train for self-defense, so I use an accumilation of blows to the right places, or grappling, and if a knockout happens, great. Otherwise, I don't worry about it...
Back to work!

Tags: Knockout, power, boxing, kickboxing, MMA, self-defense

Le Blog on Count Dante

Read this fascinating post at Le Blog on The Legend of Count Dante.

Today's TDA Tip: Pull Back, not Down! - video

This video illustrates how to pull someone into a knee strike from the Thai clinch. Watch.

Takedown Counter to Thai Clinch and Knee - IMPROVED!

I don't really like the Photobucket Filmloop for this type of post, so I will do it the old-fashioned way for your edification (and edjumucation)!

One of the problems you face when throwing knees is that you have to keep you opponent off-balance to keep delivering knees, or you are vulnerable to a takedown. Watch Sam (green shirt) and Mike (black shirt) illustrate.

1. Mike achieves the Thai clinch and prepares the right knee


2. Sam uses a double-forearm block


3. Sam goes for the double, Mike begins to back away and tries to sprawl


4. Sam pulls behind Mike's left knee and applies pressure with his head and left shoulder


5. ... taking Mike down tothe dusty turf


6. Then Sam assumes side control

Some fine points:
You have to time the takedown as your opponent has just fired the knee, or when the leg is on its way down. If you wait a split-second too long, you can eat the knee. Please see this post on handling the Thai clinch for other options. Stay safe.
Back to work!

Takedown Counter to Thai Clinch and Knee

I removed the Photobucket loop. I just don't like it for posting on a blog.

How to Keep Surveillance on Your Home

Adam Walls of 919 security self defense blog has a great post on a program that uses IP and video cameras to keep remote surveillance. He's got great posts on a lot of security issues (it's his business). Check out the his blog and site.

How To Keep Surveillance On Your Home From Anywhere In The World

Many of you out there probably try not to worry about your home when you are on vacation. You want to spend your whole time relaxing and not having a care in the world until you get back on that plane or back in that car to go back home. But, for some of us who have either had their homes broken into or constantly worry because you may live in a bad neighborhood, VISEC Surveillance Software has you covered. NASA Level Programmers have developed a next generation computer program called VISEC. VISEC turns your home or office computer into a powerful, global-wide video surveillance system in 5 minutes or less.

With VISEC you can keep an eye on everything you ever wanted without spending a fortune. This is very helpful for monitoring your home, office, cars and valuables.
Watch your pets, nanny, babysitter even your kids!
View from any location in the world via the Internet.
Use your computer's IP address to log on and immediately view live or past video.
Record all video activity, or just when motion is detected.
In motion detection mode you can be alerted by email, cell phone or PDA when motion is detected.
Can also be used as a stealth surveillance system allowing the program to operate secretly on your computer. Suspect an abusive nanny or cheating spouse? Simply set VISEC on 'secret' mode and record everything for possible evidence.
VISEC is extremely easy to use. Installation and configuration will only take 5 minutes.

VISEC can record up to four cameras at once using your existing computer and any webcam, wireless or hidden camera. This is great because everyone with a need for recording video can use VISEC. A web cam allows you to connect directly to your computer and this means simple installation through USB ports.

Video surveillance has never been so easy.

New Link- SelfDefenseResource.com News/Blog

Check out the SelfDefenseResource.com News/Blog and the main site. I have only started reviewing it, but what I have seen so far is very good. Check it out.

WW2 Combatives Training

I like the fashion sense: Zorro masks. Technique - simple, but effective!

Tags: Combatives, WW2, WWII

MACP/BJJ: Rear Takedown - video

In our ongoing series on the Modern Army Combatives Program (MACP), I promised to post and critique techniques based on what seems to be practical in the "real world," as opposed to the arena, which is the venue for which many of these BJJ techniques seem designed. Look at the rear takedown.

Effectiveness: This is a technique which seems very practical. We have integrated it into our knee/Thai clinch defense as a counter, and it works like a charm. You end up in the mount, or in a good position to get the back mount as your opponent may try to roll onto his stomach and get up from there.

Critical flaws: You go to the ground, which if you have a duty belt, are facing multiple opponents, or are going to hit the pavement, can be a problem. Also, when you go down, you release the waist, post on one hand, then roll over to mount your opponent. If your hand lands on something slippery or, worse yet, sharp, you could be in trouble.

Overall: I like it. It has its place and seems to be a good technique. My MCMAP Black Belt instructor likes it as well. As a caveat, unless you know your environment and opposition, don't use it.

Tags: MACP, combatives, martial arts, grappling, BJJ, takedown

Another Case of Sex Abuse in the Martial Arts

In Finland, a Taekwondo instructor is charged with "22 counts, and a total of 799 individual acts of molestation." Please read my previous post on ways to prevent this and protect our vulnerable students. Keep in mind that the accused hasn't been convicted at the time of this posting.

Martial arts coach in Oulu faces charges of molesting young girls

One of Finland’s most extensive sex crime trials began behind closed doors in Oulu District Court on Monday. The prosecution is calling for prison sentences for a 33-year-old martial arts coach. He stands accused of the sexual abuse of a large number of girls who took Taekwondo lessons from him. The indictment contains 22 counts, and a total of 799 individual acts of molestation.

The alleged crimes took place between 1997 and 2005 in different parts of the north of Finland. There are a total number of 12 plaintiffs in the case. Some of the girls were 14 and 15 years old at the time of the alleged crimes. Most of the acts took place when the victims were 16 and 17.

The coach has been in custody since early January, when he was arrested following tip-offs from martial arts enthusiasts.

The trial is being held behind closed doors in order to protect the identity of the girls in question.

Final arguments in the trial are to be held on the 13th of September.

Sexual molestation of a minor can bring a sentence of up to four years in prison. In this case the final sentence can be heavier, because of the large number of counts against him.

The coach himself has denied committing any crimes. He says that the relationships with his pupils involved normal dating, and that no coercion was involved.

The defendant also faces charges of financial crimes involving hundreds of thousands of euros.

The Taekwondo community observes a strict hierarchy. Pupils are required to swear an oath emphasising respect for the coach and those with higher-ranking belts.

The prosecution says that the defendant used his high position as a teacher and a coach as a way of winning sexual favours from his students.

Police say that all of the acts followed the same pattern. However, no details were given out to the public.

The defendant made secret videotape recordings of his activities. The tapes have been confiscated by police.

Tags: martial arts, sexual abuse

Ankle Lock Secrets Revealed

Since we were drilling them this morning, I thought I'd post a link to Stephan Kesting's excellent article and breakdown, "Breaking down the Ankle Lock." I find this a useful and realistic technique, as I showed this morning. Enjoy.

Tags: Grappling, MMA, combatives, MACP

Pepper Spray Nothing to Sneeze At

Sorry, couldn't help it! Please read this Melissa Soalt article on USADojo.com, "Pepper Spray's Strength Nothing to Sneeze At!"

They’re red hot, and they’ll make you swoon. No, it’s not a new rock band. I’m talking about pepper sprays – popular non-lethal devices that many women carry but few are trained to use. As with any weapon, there are subtleties and limitations, distinct pros and cons to their usage. You don’t just give a spritz and presto! – the bad guys drop at your feet.

Far more effective than tear gas (Mace), pepper spray contains a solution of oleoresin capsicum, better know as cayenne pepper, which is derived from red pepper plants. These O.C-based sprays are an inflammatory agent and can disable an individual for 20-30 minutes. When a person is sprayed in the face, the air passages and membranes swell, making it difficult to breathe. The spray typically produces intense choking, burning in the throat, face and eyes, and instant eye closure. It can also force the diaphragm to contract and cause an attacker to double over. “It’s like putting your hand on a hot stove and not being able to take it off,” notes a Denver police officer. “The pain keeps intensifying.”

Read the rest!

Tags: OC, CapStun, Pepper Spray, Self Defense, non-lethal

Psychology Behind Suicide Bombings

USA Dojo.com interview with Pierre Rehov, a French documentary filmmaker on the "Psychology Behind Suicide Bombings." Read.
Tags: Terrorism, Suicide Bombing

When all else fails...

Christoper Caile of FightingArts.com on "last-resort" techniques to save your life. In law enforcement and the military there is something called the "continuum of force" that governs an appropriate response to a given threat. Mr. Caile is right to point out that these techniques aren't appropriate for most situations. Please read the article.
Tags: Self-defense, defensive tactics, combatives

Whence the power? How do you apply force in fighting?

Bruce Lee said it so succinctly when he deadpanned, "Boards don't hit back." He's right. Perfect form on a stationary target, or (for forms specialists) in the air, doesn't translate to knockout power. I have noticed for years that some fighters have a ton of power on the pads or the bag, but couldn't knock anyone out if their lives depended on it (a subject for another post). The question of the day, then, is how do you translate that tremendous "gym power" from the equipment to an opponent? My answers assume you do have that hitting power spoken of earlier, but here they are:

1. Timing


2. Distance

I consider both answers to be one and the same, though they are synergistic components. If I have great timing, but keep missing, my timing is wasted. If I have perfect distancing, but fire too early or late, I will be in a heap of trouble fast. One doesn't work without the other. This is the answer to why some fighters have effective power (on a live opponent), and some do not. I once had a head instructor at one of my schools with all the attributes- decent speed, timing, distancing, and good technique. What was missing though, was strength. He was rather small (about 130 pounds), and didn't have that power on the equipment or on a live opponent.

Solutions:

• Drill versus moving targets, as opposed to stationary. In other words, if you're drilling punches on hand mitts, make sure you have your holder move toward or away from you during the drills. Drill leading off from a distance. Drill counters against an aggressive opponent. I had one instructor, Master Mike Ocampo, who drill thousands of side kicks versus a swinging bag, and consequently could damage you even if you blocked it due to his timing. There are tons of ideas out there.


• Do timing drills where you have to "squeeze the trigger" precisely to hit you opponent. Stop-hits are great equalizers for a smaller or lighter fighter, and the timing actually creates a lot of power in your strikes. Try 'em.


• Last, don't rely on power. It will let you down when you need it most. When you are tired, it's gone. When you are fighting someone in great shape or with a granite chin, it's ineffective. Versus a counterfighter, it can be useless. Rely instead on combinations, conditioning, and targeting. Combinations create openings. Conditioning keeps you in the fight, and the right targets (eyes, throat, groin, legs, to name a few) don't require power to be effective.

Power is impressive, it's the icing on the cake, but it ain't everything! I'd appreciate comments with specific drills or any other related feedback. Back to work!
Tags: Punching, sparring, kickboxing, boxing, drills, timing

Grappling Tips for Us Old Folks

Stephan at GrappleArts.com has a couple of new posts in his always-excellent Tip of the Week blog called, "The Aging Grappler" and "The Elders Speak." I recommend both to you (this applies to all of my group, except Dan), even if you're only 25 (age won't creep up on you, it'll smack you down and you won't wake up until you're pushing forty+ and wonder where the years went!). Read them both and follow the sage, venerable, timeless, advice.
Tags: grappling, conditioning, MMA

DefendU on Identity Theft

Defend University is a great ongoing resource for self-defense and defensive tactics information. Here, they discuss something that's timely, considering the high-profile incidents in the past year.

Protect Yourself from Identity Theft

Identity theft has doubled since 2001.

Don't think it can't happen to you and don't think it's not that big of a deal. At the very least, you'll spend an average of $1,000 clearing your name and restoring your credit standing and it can take years to clean up the mess.

Because of the bad credit you'll have until you can get everything restored you will have trouble getting loans, home mortgages, even lose out on job opportunities...

Follow these simple steps to avoid being a victim:

• Shred all financial and personal information before throwing it away.

• Never leave mail overnight in your mailbox. Meth addicts are big into stealing mail with an eye toward finding utility bill payments. Your information can be purloined, your checks washed and you won't even know it for about a month.

• Mail your bill payments and other financial materials from the metal U.S. mailboxes. Those flimsy aluminum mail boxes found in office buildings and apartments are easy to pry open.

• Do not include personal information, such as your full name, address and phone number, on printed checks. Don't laugh, I see it all the time. I've even had bank tellers tell me privately that they have fictitious addresses on their checks.

• Cancel unused credit card accounts and cut up the cards before disposing. Come on, do I really need to tell you this?

• Carry only what you need in your wallet (leave out unnecessary credit cards, checks, etc.) If you lose your wallet (happens all the time) or you are mugged, pickpocketed or robbed, you won't lose everything -- meaning you will have access to some credit or cash while you are getting all of your other cards reissued.

• Never give Social Security numbers, bank account numbers or other personal financial information to anybody on the telephone. Again, don't laugh, people do it.

• Request copies of your credit report periodically to see if someone is trying to apply for credit under your name.

You might consider having your mail go to a commercial mail box location or a Post Office Box. That way you don't have a direct link to your home address for identity thieves.

Protecting yourself from this new threat will require you to change your thinking about how you protect your information. And you will have to have the discipline to continue your security procedures. Remember, you have to be careful all the time. The identity thief just needs to get lucky once.

Tags: Identity theft, fraud, crime, self defense

Research on Safety of MMA and Boxing

Eddie Goldman of No Holds Barred posts links on the research now available on the relative safety of MMA and boxing. I, too, have always heard that MMA should be safer than boxing because bouts can end in submissions or chokes, as opposed to a fighter absorbing so many blows to the head or knockouts, which always result in damage, many times permanent.

It seems that the new rules and officiating changes in MMA bouts have changed the emphasis to striking, and that supposed safety gap may have narrowed or changed completely. Read the article and links for more.
Tags: NHB, MMA, boxing

Comments On, but Moderated

I am now moderating* comments, due to the decision by a particular commenter to use the feature as a personal soapbox, rather than for its intended purpose. I appreciate all views, and can tolerate even those with which I disagree, in the great traditions of free speech that most of us share, but this is not an open forum. I appreciate the hundreds of regular readers to this blog. and want to hear from you, and so will specifically solicit comments from time to time on some posts, but they will always be welcome (on all posts), as long as they are on-subject, and meet acceptable standards of civility. Sometimes I may post on politically charged subjects which will raise an eyebrow or a few hackles, but that's when you should craft a well-written, and persuasive argument against my view, tell us why you agree, or add a point which wasn't covered (or covered well). That's how we do it.

*From now on, comments are reviewed, then posted. There will be a delay of a few hours, at times. Be patient, as long as they meet the criterion cited above, they will get posted.

TSA Airport Devices Aim to Detect Evil Intent

Read this WSJ article. It's another effort to avoid "profiling." Exerpt:

With one hand inserted into a sensor that monitors physical responses, the travelers used the other hand to answer questions on a touch screen about their plans. A machine measured biometric responses -- blood pressure, pulse and sweat levels -- that then were analyzed by software. The idea was to ferret out U.S. officials who were carrying out carefully constructed but make-believe terrorist missions.

The trial of the Israeli-developed system represents an effort by the U.S. Transportation Security Administration to determine whether technology can spot passengers who have "hostile intent." In effect, the screening system attempts to mechanize Israel's vaunted airport-security process by using algorithms, artificial-intelligence software and polygraph principles.

I know, I know. Air terrorism is just a plot by the "US and Israeli military-industrial complex" to sell these machines...
Tags: Terrorism, Airport security, TSA, biometrics, ACLU

Unarmed Knife Defense Video

From Karate Junkie. Click this link, then watch the video.

This is applicable to everyone, but I like what they added for LEOs on the reaction time for drawing a weapon versus an attacker from a good distance. Add the knife victim shots toward the end for a little, "scared straight" applicability.

Stickgrappler: How to Clinch and Not Get Hit

How to clinch and not get hit

zm wrote:

I was wondering how grapplers keep from getting hit by someone who is a striker,
seems to me that as the grappler comes in he is liable to get rocked with a
strike. However I have seen grapplers that seem willing to get hit in exchange
for a chance to get in close. Is that how all grapplers feel about getting in on
an someone?

Actually, a grappler does NOT have to settle for taking a shot or two to get to the clinch. This is a common misconception. It's all a matter of timing and angling. Look at it this way. When it comes to angling, you simply have to shoot in low and off-center with the head, and you can relatively easily avoid getting hit (either with a punch or kick). The opponent can only hit something solidly that is right in front of him and at the right vertical level.

Then you look at timing. The two best times to shoot in against a striker are :

1. Right after he has initiated an attack

2. When his attacking limb is fully extended and has begun to retract. But if you go in straight up the middle at, say, chest level, and time it when he is cocked and ready to fire, then yes, I would then say that you're going to have to eat a punch or two to get the clinch. But change the timing and angling of your approach and the odds weigh heavily against HIM. The important thing, though, is that you avoid going in right into his firing line.

Frank Benn
Integrated Arts
Austin, Texas

Should We Be Profiling?

Anyone for Terrorist Profiling?

Mark Alexander From Patriot Post Vol. 05 No. 45; Published 11 November 2005

To ensure we Americans never offend anyone -- particularly fanatics intent on killing us -- law enforcement and security screeners are not allowed to "profile" people in public places or security checkpoints. However, they will continue to perform random searches of 80-year-old women, little kids, airline pilots with proper identification, Secret Service agents who are members of the President's security detail, 85-year-old congressmen with metal hips and even Medal of Honor recipients. But targeting Middle Eastern male Islamists between the ages 17 and 40 constitutes "ethnic profiling."

Let's pause a moment and review....

In 1968 Bobby Kennedy was shot and killed by: (a) A salesman from Utah (b) An construction worker (c) A college student on Spring Break (d) Middle Eastern Islamist males between the ages of 17 and 40.

In 1972, 11 Israeli athletes were killed at the Munich Olympics by: (a) Your grandmother (b) A Midwest auto-parts dealer (c) A mom and her 6-year-old son visiting from Indiana (d) Middle Eastern Islamist males between the ages of 17 and 40.

In 1979, the U.S. embassy in Iran was taken over by: (a) A bluegrass band (b) Dallas Cowboy fans (c) A tour group of 80-year-old women (d) Middle Eastern Islamist males between the ages of 17 and 40.

During the 1980's numerous Americans were kidnapped in Lebanon by: (a) A family on their way to Disney World (b) Jesse Ventura (c) A Boy Scout Troop (d) Middle Eastern Islamist males between the ages of 17 and 40.

In 1983, the U.S. Marine barracks in Beirut was blown up by: (a) A pizza delivery boy (b) The UPS guy (c) Geraldo Rivera making up for a slow news day (d) Middle Eastern Islamist males between the ages of 17 and 40.

In 1985 the cruise ship Achille Lauro was hijacked, and a 70-year-old disabled American passenger was murdered and thrown overboard by: (a) A girls' choir (b) A hardware store owner (c) A secretary (d) Middle Eastern Islamist males between the ages of 17 and 40.

In 1985 TWA flight 847 was hijacked at Athens, and a U.S. Navy diver was murdered by: (a) A Marine officer with two weeks leave (b) A plumber going to visit his mom (c) A Catholic nun (d) Middle Eastern Islamist males between the ages of 17 and 40.

In 1988, Pan Am Flight 103 was bombed by: (a) A college-bound freshman (b) A cardiac surgeon on his way to Houston (c) A waitress (d) Middle Eastern Islamist males between the ages of 17 and 40.

In 1993, the World Trade Center was bombed by: (a) A starving actress (b) A mom with a newborn (c) Twin six-year-old boys (d) Middle Eastern Islamist males between the ages of 17 and 40.

In 1995, a plot to blow up U.S.-bound international flights over the Pacific was attempted by (a) Hawaiian school kids (b) An decorated Vietnam Veteran (c) Twin sisters on their way to Paducah (d) Middle Eastern Islamist males between the ages of 17 and 40.

In 1998, the U.S. embassies in Kenya and Tanzania were bombed by: (a) A local TV weatherman (b) A dad and his two sons on a ski trip (c) A widower going to visit his grandchildren (d) Middle Eastern Islamist males between the ages of 17 and 40.

In 2000, 17 sailors died in an attack on the USS Cole (DDG 67) in Yemen by: (a) A child in a stroller (b) A high school class on their way to visit Washington, DC (c) Newlyweds on their way to Miami (d) Middle Eastern Islamist males between the ages of 17 and 40.

On 9/11/01, four airliners were hijacked -- two flown into the World Trade Centers, one into the Pentagon and one into the ground in rural Pennsylvania. They were hijacked by: (a) A retired police officer on a mission trip to Haiti (b) A firefighter going to Maryland for training (c) An paramedic on his way to vacation in Hawaii (d) Middle Eastern Islamist males between the ages of 17 and 40.

In 2002 the United States liberated Afghanistan from: (a) USAID relief workers (b) Jewish Pilgrims (c) Christian missionaries (d) Middle Eastern Islamist males between the ages of 17 and 40.

In 2002 reporter Daniel Pearl and other Westerners were kidnapped and beheaded by: (a) The Peace Corp (b) Scottish clansmen (c) Cuban refugees (d) Middle Eastern Islamist males between the ages of 17 and 40.

In 2002, more than 330 hostages in Beslan and 130 hostages in Moscow were murdered in sieges by: (a) Russian exchange students (b) The Red Guard (c) Church planters (d) Middle Eastern Islamist males between the ages of 17 and 40.

In 2003 the United States liberated Iraq from "The Butcher of Baghdad," but most American military personnel were killed by: (a) Iraqi school-girls (b) Street vegetable venders (c) Women without burkas (d) Middle Eastern Islamist males between the ages of 17 and 40.

In 2004, more than 200 Spanish civilians were murdered on trains by bombs in Madrid, detonated by: (a) Morning commuters (b) A three-year-old Chinese girl (c) Flamenco dancers (d) Middle Eastern Islamist males between the ages of 17 and 40.

In 2005 more than 50 UK citizens were killed by bombs on trains in London, detonated by: (a) Rail workers (b) Those unable to hail taxis (c) Wheelchair-bound grandmothers (d) Middle Eastern Islamist males between the ages of 17 and 40.

In 2005, there were hundreds of casualties, men, women and children, killed by bombs in Jerusalem, Riyadh and Amman. These innocent civilians were murdered by: (a) Construction workers (b) Farmers (c) Christian missionaries (d) Middle Eastern Islamist males between the ages of 17 and 40.

In 2005, the city of Paris, and other European cities experienced an extended period of riots and destruction. The unrest was led by: (a) "Youth" (b) Soccer fans (c) Catholic nuns (d) Middle Eastern Islamist males between the ages of 17 and 40.

Since the beginning of Operation Iraqi Freedom, more than 2,500 Americans have been murdered by terrorists. 35,000 Iraqi men, women and children have also been murdered by terrorists. Most of the combat and civilians casualties were the result of bombs detonated in civilian population centers by: (a) Fruit vendors in Baghdad (b) Disgruntled transit union workers (c) Iraqi schoolteachers (d) Middle Eastern Islamist males between the ages of 17 and 40.

In 2006, hundreds of Israeli civilians have been killed by rockets launched by: (a) the Salvation Army (b) remnants of the 'Jackson Five' (c) the cast of 'Friends' (d) Middle Eastern Islamist males between the ages of 17 and 40.

In 2006, a plot to blow up U.S.-bound planes from the U.K. was attempted by (a) members of the royal family (b) Japanese tourists (c) groupies of the band 'Cream' (d) Middle Eastern Islamist males between the ages of 17 and 40.

Since 2001, the FBI reports that there are major terrorist cells still in U.S. urban centers. Several of these cells have been uncovered and cell members arrested. In every case, the terrorists cell members were: (a) Southern Baptists Conventioneers (b) Lutheran Youth Groups (c) Presbyterian Elders (d) Middle Eastern Islamist males between the ages of 17 and 40.

President George Bush said this week, "America is at war with Islamic fascists who will use any means to destroy those of us who love freedom, to hurt our nation." The Council on American-Islamic Relations issued an immediate objection to the President's reference to "Islamic fascists". Nihad Awad, executive director of CAIR protested, "We have to isolate these individuals because there is nothing in the Koran or the Islamic faith that encourages people to be cruel or to be vicious or to be criminal. Muslims world wide know that for sure." In light of this objection, we are left to ponder why every Islamic leader in the U.S., and the world, does not publicly condemn every terror action being undertaken in the name of the god of Islam. Their silence is deafening...

Between 1970 and present, there were more than 60 other notable examples of terrorism perpetrated by Middle Eastern male Islamists between the ages 17 and 40, but we think you get the point. Singling out "Middle Eastern male Islamists between the ages 17 and 40" is not "ethnic profiling," it's "terrorist profiling" -- acting on prolific evidence.

Anyone for Terrorist Profiling...?

Semper Vigilo, Paratus, et Fidelis! Mark Alexander Publisher, The Patriot
Tags: Law enforcement, Global War on Terrorism, Homeland Security, Airline security, Terrorism, Islamic Terrorism, Bush, Profiling

Airsoft Pistols for Tactical Training

We are planning to start using Airsoft tomorrow for disarms (in the beginning). I admit, I haven't started looking for drills oftactical skills yet, but AllianceMartialArts.com has a nice article. Read it.

Airsoft Pistols for Tactical Training
What if there was a better way to both introduce gun safety and shooting skills (especially to women)?
What if it could also aid in developing Tactical skills, yet was safe, quiet, inexpensive, and legal?
Well, if you hadn't guessed by now, the answer to all these is the AirSoft Pistol. By the very fact that it is "not a gun" it will put people at ease in handling it, yet it is enough like a gun in the way it looks, loads, and chambers that important firearm safety skills may be taught with it. This can be done nearly anywhere, indoor or out, since the plastic 6mm pellets will not break glass or damage walls.
Read the rest.
 
Tags: Airsoft, tactical, training, disarms

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Martial Arts Industry Booming, Changing

This article from a Connecticut newspaper reminded me of how different the industry is today. I started martial arts over thirty years ago as a kids with a couple of lessons, then, as a teen, began assisting at a local Taido/Aikido school, and teaching "karate" to my friends out of my living room when my parents weren't home. It wasn't until I was about 24 and started working for a Master Kim in Baltimore, that I realized just how much money you could make in the business, and within two years, was a part-owner of three schools. At the time, we tried everything to make it a viable business, and combined, we had 800 students in the three schools. I learned that:

1. You have to control expenses - keep your rent and labor costs as low as possible.


2. Build a community network by participating in neighborhood events like festivals and parades. Practice and show goodwill by giving away free women's self-defense, and holding charity tournaments and kick-a-thons for free publicity and to build your name.


3. Continually advertise via direct mailers, good signage, yellow pages, and word-of-mouth/referrals.


4. Despite all that, it's tough to make it.

Once I found out that my wife and I were to have our first child, my whole mindset changed, and I realized that I didn't want to be working 10-10 almost every day. Eleven years ago, I got out of the business, and, gradually, back into teaching for the love of it. I put my white belt back on and took classes from other instructors, and seminars- things you have no time for as a full-time instructor/owner. I enjoy it just as much, and am a much better martial artist, though my technique isn't the same and I am forty pounds heavier!

One thing that my former partner told me was that the classes themselves don't really make up the bulk of his income anymore - he now runs "camps" after school, and all day during the summer which make up most of his income. He also charges more than we used to, about $115/month per student, and folks are willing to pay it. Anyway, I am happy for him, as he's making the money we always dreamt of, and I am actually doing and learning more than I used to, while being with my family at night, and not worrying about making payroll, rent, and inventory. Life is good.

Read the whole article. Here are some excerpts.

Martial Arts Industry Flexes Muscle

Once a cottage industry, martial-arts schools have become big business in Connecticut and beyond

by Melissa Nicefaro
Just over 22 years ago, a movie was released that ignited an entire industry. Ralph Macchio made karate trendy like no one had before. In the wake of The Karate Kid's blockbuster success, interest in the martial arts surged in the United States, jump-starting what previously had been a cottage industry.

"When that movie came out, it shifted the industry in a tremendous way," recalls David Shirley, owner of 11 Villari Studios in Connecticut. "The change was huge. Almost overnight, the business had doubled. Since then, the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and Power Rangers have lent one influence after another and really drove the children's market."
...
...Williams' Academy of Kempo Arts caters to children, teens and adults with varying degrees of commitment. Roughly 50 percent of people stick with it for a while, while the other half lose interest or move on to something else, according to Williams.

"When it comes to children, it depends on the discipline of the parent," he notes. "Some kids rule the household."
...
As Joseph Moscatelli, district manager for the United Studios of Self Defense's Connecticut schools, explains, instructors need to graduate from the United Studios of Self Defense and the Academy of Professional Martial Arts Instruction in order to teach at his schools.

"Someone who's an instructor with United Studios had to go through a training process on how to teach and run a business," he explains. "We look for students who want to make the transition from a student into a full-time career."

This is Moscatelli's 26th year in the business and he says it's not unusual for martial arts studio owners or managers to be the business for a long time.

"The fellow who runs my Newtown store has been training for six or seven years," he notes. "The person who runs our Ridgefield has been training for 13 years. It becomes more of a career or a lifestyle, where we're very involved in getting as many students as possible who may eventually want to make a career of martial arts."
...
Moscatelli knows that the industry of martial arts is in a state of constant evolution.

"There are many things that might have been appropriate for someone 100 years ago, but our focus changes to what people need to focus on in the current time," says Moscatelli. "So many studios are mom-and-pop schools and their hours may be limited and run by someone who works a day job and goes in and works a few hours in the evening."

Bob Liedke is a "pop" in the truest sense. He has run the American Institute of Martial Arts in New Haven for 28 years. He admits that summers are slow for business, but he always manages to get through the times of the year when it seems that nobody wants to train.

"I have a cadre of older people who are regular in their habits and therefore I stay in business, where a lot of the other schools will close because students don't come to the classes," Liedke says.

"As you might notice, 90 percent of the students at karate schools are children," Liedke says. "That's where the money is made. You can make $1 million a year in a martial-arts school, but never convey to your students what the martial arts are all about."

He trains in the base martial arts of judo, jiu jitsu, Aikido and karate. The central focus is on self-defense in an atmosphere where everyone is relaxed, there is no aggression and nobody gets hurt. He teaches techniques for diaphragmatic breathing, balance and spinning back and forth so that a student develops balance and movement. Liedke's student roster includes a number of police and correctional officers, doctors and attorneys.

"It's not a large school, but many of the large schools have many kids," Liedke says. "Making kids six or seven years old black belts is laughable. I have made 92 black-belts - but they're not children."

"When students get a black belt, they want to go out and open a school because now they can make money," Liedke says. "That's not the way it goes. Students themselves suffer in the large schools because of the number of students in a class. If you're one of 50 people on the floor and you try to follow the instructor, it is difficult to learn. If you're in a small school, with maybe 50 students in the entire school, there are ten people on the floor.

Read it all.
Tags: Karate, martial arts industry

W. Hock Hochheim, the Interview Begins

As we were unable to get our schedules to mesh for an interview, I emailed, at Hock's request, a number of questions. I will post his replies as I get them, and link back to this, the first in the series. Please check out his site and blog for more information, but suffice it to say that W. Hock Hochheim is a recognized authority and innovator in the field of modern combatives and defensive tactics, covering gun, stick, knife, and unarmed techniques, tactics, and strategies for the modern warrior - professional and amateur alike. To the interview.

TDA- What’s your take on the debate between sport-based or combat-oriented training? My contention is that the sport-orientation can lead to more success precisely because the stress of competition more closely mimics the anxiety and adrenaline of a fight than drilling more deadly techniques does. Do you agree?

This is a discussion point many talk about frequently. The key phrase in the statement are the words "more closely mimics." But frankly, many debates on the issue do not contain that exact phrase. In debates you will also the comparison -"same as". Some even argue, "better than." The exact semantics may vary, but the general message of "close/same/better" remains.

For starters you'll have to quickly define...
1) Sports-based competition (football? baseball? Rugby?)
2) Combat-oriented sports (Karate tournament? UFC? Hockey?)
3) Combat training (training to replicate the predicted combat situation)
4) Anxiety (nervousness, jitters, anxiousness. At times depression)
5) Adrenaline (chemicals excreted to fire up the body in serious emergency)

Big Picture, Small Picture
Okay, lets dare follow that logic to the extreme. If sports-based competitions were so close, near or even better? Why then should the US Marines bother with combat training at Paris Island? Why not just start a giant, Marine Corps, football league? Or have Delta Force partake in Kick boxing tournaments instead of war maneuvers with simulated ammo? That "combat sport competition is close-as, or as good as, or -superior" concepts just doesn't play out in the big picture.

What about the small picture? Inside your guts? Can you do anything for any adrenaline rush? Sports? Challenges? Thrills? Not for all all of us. Whether sports or combat, the personality and experience of the individual takes much into account. Let's just start there with individual people.

Personality and Experiences
Everyone's body callous and jitter switch is different. Individually for me, when normal life throws me a curve, like a road rage incident, or an unruly, knucklehead at the bar, or brusk counter-help at a restaurant, or a nutty relative, people ask me, “Hock, why are you so calm about this?” My answer is,

“Hey, I've been shot at. What else could be that bad?”

Most people in normal life do not have a standard to compare their problem of "cold broccoli" with. "Waiter! Waiter! Damnit! My damn Broccoli!" Most martial arts instructors, even reality-based, do not have continuum standards to compare with either. ..in their guts. Their guts and doctrines have not faced the stampeding elephant.

Sadly, I myself simply do not care about being in a sports competition no matter the hoopla because they are just not the real thing. I would like to return to my blissful days of worshipping the New York Mets as a child. Or the Dallas Cowboys, but those days are over now. Fighting in a weekend sports fight doesn't excite me to juice up some real adrenaline. Hell, I've caught hit men and serial killers, being in and watching sport competitions just doesn't cook my soup. I just don't care enough to get too excited. I am not alone in this.

For example, many of my police friends participate in annual SWAT competitions. They train specifically for the events. They attend the events with the same social fervor of a bunch guys going to a bowling tournament. They like to win. They try to win. They want to win. It facilitates team-building. But they the know distinct difference between the event and a real hostage takedown.

Years ago in a short car trip with a group of new acquaintances, the male driver talked about his wife being an avid hunter. Over his shoulder, he asked me, Hock, do you hunt?" My thoughtless, quick response was, "Yes...people." Everyone laughed and I realized I'd made a funny. They all knew I was a detective and had tracked people across the country. But the moral of the story was hunting animals really bored me. After one hunts armed people, hunting a woodchuck or a damn dove, or a deer...just doesn't boil my potatoes. I have done all of the aforementioned as social events, really. Had fun. Ho-hum.

Shooters rage and cheer on about their police target competitions and "getting that trophy," and getting 100 points instead of 95 on the last run through. They talk about how much they like shooting competition because it gives them an adrenaline boost. Range contest shooters think that's adrenaline? Wha? Sweet Jesus! Have they got a surprise in store for them! I get almost zero adrenaline on a competition shoot or tournament when compared to my real moments of violent conflict in real life. I'd much rather be in a good, realistic, sims, shoot out scenario any day to touch my adrenaline. Range, target shooting is like ironing a shirt compared to combat.

Look, I am not saying cheering the Mets, sparring on Wednesday nights or shooting at a range or contest is wrong or misguided. Everyone has hobbies. Many military, police and citizens are already competitive by nature and can get overly excited over a game of cards. But when I do all these things, all I really get is frustrated because I can't cheat.

I can think of someone walking up to a piano recital and passing out onto the stage floor from nerves. People can psychologically work themselves into an adrenalized, frenzy over any event. A few weeks back I was a finalist in a book writing competition. At the banquet, I nervously awaited the results. I recalled having these jitters before and found it strange that though my life was not in danger, I was having some version of "butterflies." Some version. Which leads us to the next topic of versions. All nervousness and adrenaline is not equal. All nervousness does not equate to an adrenaline burst, it just equates to...being nervous.

Contest adrenaline is different than combat adrenaline
In the chemical becker on the lab table. Adrenaline chemicals all look the goopy same. But when it is pumped into play, the heart rate, the brain, the body and the situation all come into chaotic play. What manifests is a situation specific result. If you are a kick boxer, you might start kick boxing. If you are a footballer, you might tackle. If you are a trained mixed-weapon, reality combat guy, you'll be different still. The point being, despite the universality of the chemicals, the situation plays a part in how you feel in your gut and what you'll do.

I recall serving some warrants on armed felons one day, then later that night, coming up to the plate to bat on our police department softball team. I remember noting that I was more nervous about batting than I was making the earlier arrests. Plus, it really was a different kind of nervous.

Contest jitters are different than pre-raid jitters. Non-combat nerves, jitters, butterflies and adrenaline are different than the combat nerves, jitters, butterflies and adrenaline. Unless you have worked yourself into a alternative, psycho-frenzy making something less into something more. In which case, I would hate to predict what you would do in the real deal if a target match or a piano recital wipes you out. Pre-karate fight anxiety is different than those prepping a house raid in Tikrete. Get a grip on the real continuum of life. The real stampedes. The big picture.
Such abstractions like sports and recitals are better than nothing, but the best combat training must resemble the actual combat as closely as possible for a host of reasons, such as probability factors and muscle memory. Crisis rehearsal of the most realistic combat encounters is the highest form of training. There is always something better to try than settling-for a sports competition. I emphasize the term settling-for!

The suggestion by many is to experience a sheer adrenaline rush in a roller-coaster ride, sky-diving, a karate tournament or a pistol target match. But, know that thrill and sport adrenaline bursts are "settling-fors," because adrenaline is different for different things. Being shot at, flying in a para-sail and kicking a field goal are very different things.

Is your time well-spent? You have to ask yourself, is getting an abstract, unrelated dose of an adrenaline rush more important than learning proper, combat muscle memory, along with some adrenaline? In competitions you strive to win, within the rules. Those rules do not apply to real world combat. Instead, the abstract methods and strategies that evolve to win in a certain sport, become your muscle memory.

Sports advice and reality cross-training is a very hard split. Even just within the sport's world, cross-training is hard enough. A pro baseball player is a fine athlete, but he cannot succeed in pro football. His raw, athletic skills will carry him to a point, but specific skills must take over. Think about the amazing basketball star Michael Jordan. Despite his amazing skills, he pretty much sucked in baseball. Now, suddenly drop Michael Jordan in a firefight northern Afghanistan, or a Camden, New Jersey gang fight.

These topics are heard to delineate because as trainers and instructors we CONSTANTLY leap-frog in and around sports psychology and athletic performance trials and studies to prove a point or make statements on combat training. These sport borders can become hazy and confusing if you do not draw succinct lines and articulate your points. For example, the skill of running fast, or heart rate endurance are universally important. We rely on sports to train us in these areas. This does not mean we have to join the high school track team and win the state trophy. Nor do the pressures of a track meet really relate to run-and-gun movements, such as the "Mogadishu Mile."

Also, and this is very important, being nervous or having an increased heart rate before a shooting match or karate fight is not always connected to an official adrenaline release. You might just simply be nervous, not adrenalized.

Really Defining Combat-Oriented Sports
This is a tricky point we touched on earlier. I know Tae Kwon Do people that think their tournaments are combat-oriented. Some karate people, too. There's lot of combat in a boxing match. Some people think hard-stick dueling in the park on Sundays is all the adrenaline-related combat you need. Once you do it? "You'll fear no man ever again!" Lots of folks stand up and say their judo or kendo match helps develop their combat edge. Would you consider paintball a combat-oriented sport? Some brag on the power of mental visualization!

We once featured former SecState and General, Collin Powell in our old CQC Magazine and he told us of a "Combat Football" one of his Army commanders invented in South Korea to keep his soldiers tough. It was sort of near-to-no-rules football. Looked like Australian football, or...soccer with punching and elbows. That was not to be mistaken for trench warfare.

The 21st century UFC is leaving more of its high school wrestling methodologies behind and becoming more and more of a practical source for training, yet is still riddled with rules and sport restrictions. An enlightened mind picks out the skill sets and makes real-world applications. (more on the UFC connection is another upcoming blog)

A teacher must know not to compare sports directly to goal-specific training on how to fight a rapist, a kidnapper, a killer or a terrorist. Really switched-on, Force-on-Force programs can also raise the adrenaline, train as rigorously as a UFC contestant, plus still teach proper, survival muscle memory. This is the apex of training, not combat sports. Combat sports can teach many subtle, dangerous things. The smarter the instructor, the better the reality course.

But really making this sport-to-reality transition? Really! Doing so completely turns a martial arts school upside-down at its very core. This idea is a complete, utter, sea-change in traditional, even nontraditional martial arts. This is met with reluctant, deep resistance, or financing problems. The physical building itself cannot resemble a martial arts school found in strip-center-America. The facility needs replica streets, bars, banks, homes and battlefields. The facility needs an obstacle course. It needs...well...the mock-ups that modern military training facilities have, not a football field, not an octagon fence, not a boxing ring. All those things we must...settle-for. (Unless that is what you know you want to do.)

In summary? The Couch To-Combat Continuum. Get off the Couch!
As far as true, modern, reality-based, training programs, striving to win sport fights and games are an abstract distraction and a dangerous and poor doctrine for reality training. Sure, I would rather see people get off the couch and be in - say - a karate tournament than do nothing and sit on the couch. This way, they at least touch upon these issues. Proper combat, survival doctrine works to improve reality with the best, Force-on-Force training. Combat sports is an abstraction. But, you do the best you can where you are and understand what 'settle-fors" mean in a bigger continuum of reality.

Trainers remained cursed with the hard fact that - It never gets real-real...until its really real. How do we do it? That is your challenge. The answer to the "versus" question? In the pursuits of reality-laced, adrenaline and training? Sports competition "settles-for," and is "in leau of" smarter, better, more efficient ways to train for reality. Anything is better than sitting on the couch. Do something. Chess is better than staring at the wall. Ballet is better than sitting. Its a continuum thing. Combat-oriented sports are better sports-sports like tennis or baseball.

NOTHING replaces replicating your predicted crime fighting or war fighting, with adding stress in the mix. Not abstract stress, but realistic stress, like using sims ammo and battling opponents in padded suits, for two examples.

When stuck somewhere within this couch-to-combat continuum, know what you are doing and why. Know you are settling for an abstraction. You usually make the best with what you have in your local neighborhood and your daily schedule.

Sports do not closely mimic, closely resemble. Sports are not "as-good-as, or same-as. They are not better. Sports settle for an abstract replacement. In almost all cases, the abstract is extreme and misleading.

"Vs." Addendum: Sports vs. Reality - tactically speaking?
If I am pressed to go fishing? Screw the rod and reel! Seems to me that throwing dynamite in the water is a smarter, quicker idea. Need quiet? Then there is that electricity trick...well, anyway...within this "vs." topic, I leave you with the wise words of a true hero and combat vet MSG. Paul Howe, survivor of several elephant stampedes (Somalia for just one), who advises the following on contest vs. reality training, and makes relative statements about sports and combat::

"Let's face it, competition is fun and if applied correctly, can help you in your marksmanship, weapon handling skills and confidence. With these attributes, also comes bad habits of moving too fast for the tactical situation. Who dictates the speed of the fight? The bad guy and how fast he falls, does. It might be a fast or slow process (the bad guy dying), but one should get in the habit of solving one problem at a time before moving to multiple threats.

You can shoot two rounds on paper or ping a piece of steel and move to the next target, but in reality, two rounds or the sound of steel being struck may not solve your problem. I remember servicing a bad guy one night at about 7 yards with night optics. I was trained to do double-taps throughout my military career. I punched him twice with two 5.56 rounds and stopped for a split second in my mind and on the trigger, looking for a response from the bad guy. The problem was that he was still standing with an AK-47. I hit him with two more rounds before he began to fall the ground. To my amazement, he stood back up before collapsing a second time. Lessons learned, shoot until they go down. Not one, not two, or three.

I now teach a four in the chest, one in the head failure drill with the rifle. Why four? It may take the human body that long to react to the amount of trauma you are inducing (5.56). At the time of this incident, we were using military green tip ammo and the energy transfer was minimal. Realizing we had a stopping power problem, we developed a drill that would work on any determined individual and made it part of our training package.

As a final point, I would be cautious on using competition shooters to drive the equipment and training in a department. While generally faster shooters, I have watched them err on the side of equipment that was great for competition, but took away from simplicity and the common goal."

NDT- Hock is also posting this on his blog for August. See links or the top of this post to get to it.

Tags: Hochheim, combatives, tactics, mma

New Link - Karate Junkie

Karate Junkie looks like one of the better martial arts blogs out there. Take a look.

Today's TDA Tip: Always Use Combinations

One of the worst things you can learn is to fire single shots. If you have picked up this awful habit, unlearn it now-it'll pay off in less headaches.

Here are the disadvantages of single-technique attacks:

• Leave a gap in timing in which your opponent can strike back. Have you ever watched beginners spar? If so, you've probably noticed that they take turns; I punch, you punch; I kick, you kick. Single attacks by even better fighters have the same effectiveness. They leave a gap to be filled by your opponent. Better to throw three or five techniques, keep the initiative, then clear.


• Becomes predicable, leaving you vulnerable to counters. If you face someone who throws only one technique at a time, and can see it coming, it's relatively easy to time it and beat them to the punch (stop-hit), or just step off to the side and destroy their offensive timing.


• If you choose to throw single-punch or kick techniques, you'd better extremely fast, because one technique is usually only enough to close.


• One technique can rarely do enough damage to stop anyone. The only exception is the eye jab. Even if it hits lightly, it can stun or disable an attacker.

Here's a better idea: Use combinations of techniques. Remember inside/outside. high/low, and mix them up. Always try to finish with your lead so that you are back in your base defensive position. Back to work!
Tags: Sparring, combinations, fighting, tactics, boxing, kickboxing

Severn Guillotine Variant Easy To Use

When Sam and I attended the excellent seminar by Dan Severn, one the techniques he taught which most impressed us was a variant on the standing guillotine. Let's examine it.

1. 
   Pull his head into your pit while underhooking the other side.
   


2. 
   View of the other side underhook
   


3. 
   Be sure to smile as you wrap your sweaty guns around his scrawny neck (if he's got one), achieving the standard guillotine, but leave your other arm free.
   


4. 
   Quickly pop (bump) him for some distance so you can post your palm on his shoulder.
   


5. 
   .. creating a base for the figure four, then do the motorcycle throttle with the arm wrapped and squeeze till he taps for mercy!

Some caveats and miscellaneous notes:

• The guillotine isn't appropriate if you're in law enforcement, or carrying a holstered sidearm or accessible blade. See this excellent DefendU page explaining why.


• Dan explained, and painfully demonstrated that if someone doesn't have a neck, you simply wrap the skull at the jaw area and apply in the same manner - it's actually much more painful.

Check out Dan Severn's site for more information. I'd recommend his seminar, and will try out his training materials and let you know. Back to work!
Tags: Dan Severn, Grappling, MMA, Guillotine, Choke