HE 
EN 
ES 
IT 
AR 
CS 
DE 
DA 
EL 
FR 
JV 
PT 
ZH Why Do We Train? Reaction vs. Response
Reaction vs. Response
All organisms “react” to stimulation in their environment. This reaction is generally ingrained in their DNA and is passed from generation to generation. Plants turn towards the sun, prey avoids predators, and humans have developed a fight or flight reaction: escape if you can, fight if you cannot.
Human Exception
Humans, however, have developed a conscious exception. First responders, military personnel, and security officers have chosen a lifestyle that places them in danger rather than doing what’s instinctive. These groups are expected to have a more focused “response” to critical situations that are appropriate to the threat levels or situations. This focused response is developed through training, but not all training is the same. Factually, many training programs can be detrimental to the basic function of providing appropriate responses. Remember, you will respond the same way you train.
Consider This Scenario
A police officer who feared walking into an armed robbery. To prepare, he practiced disarming his wife. He did this frequently, and each session involved multiple disarmings. She would point the gun at him, he would take it from her, then hand it back, and they would repeat the process.
One day, the officer walked into a convenience store being robbed. The suspect pointed a gun at him, and just as he had practiced, he took the gun from the suspect and reflexively handed it back. The suspect then shot him in the chest and killed him.
Training Shortcomings
Most police officers are required to fire 50 rounds per year at a paper target from varying distances. The targets may turn, and the only “pressure” on the officers is a time limit. This type of training is designed to meet state licensing requirements and has little to do with creating stress, which is critical in developing appropriate “responses.” It does not prepare the officer for a gunfight and only shows an understanding of the basic principles of shooting. Armed private security licensing requirements usually mirror those for police. Dedicated SWAT teams are generally the exception.
As a personal protection officer or bodyguard, it is imperative that training actually prepares you to respond appropriately under highly stressful circumstances. This involves all aspects of the discipline, not just firearms.
Stress creates elevated heart rates, increased hormone levels, higher blood pressure, and can cause confusion as you try to determine an appropriate response. As stress levels increase, our decision-making ability decreases. Situational training can overcome the hesitation created by stress and reduce the “response” time, potentially saving not only your charge but yourself as well.
COnclusion
While reaction is an inherent and instinctive behavior shared by all organisms, humans have the unique ability to train for specific, focused responses. Proper training, especially under stress, is crucial for first responders, military personnel, and security officers to effectively handle critical situations. Remember, the way you train will determine how you respond.
Our Process
How We Work?
INITIAL EVALUATION
We will discuss the size of your team(s), the threat level executives face, the amount of travel involved, how much prior training the members have, and the background of the security teams.
MY RECOMMENDATIONS
Based on those responses I can offer my input and we will develope a training plan specfic to your needs.
TRAINING SCHEDULED
We will set the times and dates to meet with your team for the recommended training.
ANNUAL TRAINING
Annual training on use of force at all levels is recommended in the event the team becomes involved in a major incident that results in legal action.
