A  Previously, the self-protection methods that I taught could best be described as simply a collection of techniques and tactics. Specifically, the unarmed combat techniques that I taught were selected from the various martial arts I had trained in –  pressure testing them to find which worked most consistently and altering them where necessary. 

In late 2009, I discovered the work of self-protection instructor and security advisor Mick Coup. I found that his systematic and ‘reverse engineered’ approach to teaching possessed an infallible logic that resonated with me.

Eventually I decided to systemize what I taught following the same engineering process and created a strategical, tactical and technical model for the unarmed combat training. I am currently doing the same for the threat awareness and conflict management syllabuses.

Not a huge amount changed during this process of systemization, but some elements of the syllabus were discarded as they compromised the efficiency and stream-lined nature of the system. Also, several tactics and training drills have been included that have been inspired by or directly taken from Mick Coup's 'C2' system.

Q   Do I need to be very fit or have previous martial arts experience?

A   No. In order to totally ingrain a technique into the nervous system, the student goes through several phases of practicing it ranging from slow to fast/hard, from non-impactive to hitting targets and from scenarios with a compliant partner to drills with a resisting partner. The training is challenging for everybody - it has to be on order for the individual to learn/grow - but the level of challenge is tailored to the individual.

Q   Why the emphasis on threat avoidance and conflict management?

A   The first reason is that although training in physical self defence is an important part of self protection and is very enjoyable, the truth is that there is often a huge difference between performing techniques in the training hall with a friendly partner and having to use them for real in a life-or-death situation. Real fighting is ugly, messy and chaotic and will require the defender to do things that will feel very unnatural. The only physical way to deal with violence is to use a greater level of violence, and so when we do train combatively - we train hard and we train in REALISTIC, effective techniques.
Secondly, having to use violence can almost always be avoided if the defender has the right kind of awareness skills to see threats FIRST. Also, in most cases of violent assault, there is a window of opportunity before the attack takes place where tactical communication/conflict management skills can be used to diffuse the situation.


Q   Do you run courses for children?

A   No; because of the mature nature of the subject matter and realistic way in which I teach. I train those who are most likely to be victims of street crime: adults and teenagers. In reality, If a child is being bullied by other children then informing parents and teachers is a much better course of action than learning how to fight. In the dreaded scenario of children being attacked or abducted by an adult, then again it comes down to awareness and avoidance training (of the parent).

 
Q   How do private sessions work?

A   The advantage of private training over attending seminars is that the training is tailored towards the indivdual(s). It may be the case that you want you and your family to learn personal safety strategies over a period of several sessions. Or perhaps you want to learn a specific subject such as self defence or conflict management after having been attacked (which is often the case). You may be a martial artist or even an instructor already but want to further your field of expertise with one of the following specialist subjects:

Unarmed Combat
Knife / Gun Defence
Baton techniques
Control and Containment
Ground Fighting
Improvised Defensive Tools


Q   Do you run corporate courses?

A   Yes. Like private sessions, these can be specifically tailored to suit the needs of the client.


Q   Where do you teach?

A   There are a number of locations all over London that can be used depending on location, number of students and cost. In the case of privates sessions, many people choose to train in their own home. Classes take place in the Muswell Hill area.


Q   What does the Japanese character in the logo mean?

A   It is a kanji character which means 'protection'