I recently received an email from a young man interested in entering the executive protection field. His perceived qualifications for this line of work really brought to light what I feel are some misconceptions about the industry. I have been running an executive protection training school for years and have produced some fine agents. Over the past few years it seems that people have caught on to what we are doing and now everyone offers a "bodyguard" school. Some are decent and some are just plain dangerous. I think it is important for people to understand just what is really involved with EP (executive protection) in order to educate yourself about the field.
From My Desk Archive - 2011
Gross vs Fine Motor Skills
There has been much fuss made about the difference between fine motor skills and gross motor skills when it comes to shooting. As with many of you, I have heard it all. Without going into what is and is not a gross motor skill I will focus more on training. What exactly does training have to do with it? Everything. If you practice a "fine motor skill" enough, it becomes significantly less challenging and more easily executed under stress. Some may argue that training can take a fine motor skill to a gross motor skill. I am inclined to agree. Now before you send me emails about the "official" definition of these two skill levels - save your energy. The point I will make is simple and clear. With enough training and practice you can execute a physically intricate set of motions. In the end I encourage people to run their guns efficiently and as logically as possible. An example is the slide stop. If you can reach it, then use the slide stop release to run the slide forward as opposed to racking it. I have heard that this is a fine motor skill and people will not be able to do this under stress. If this is the case then how the heck do people manage to push the magazine release? I believe you see my point. In summary I would say this - formulate your own belief on what is a fine motor skill for you. Then hammer on it until your training takes over and it is no longer an issue. With this mentality you will quickly find yourself able to run your weapon more effectively and accurately. My very best to you in your training.
Philosophy and Technique
As many people have found in my courses, I am a big believer in teaching the philosophies of personal protection along with specific techniques. Perhaps it is because I see firearms training and combatives as an art form. Maybe it is because of four decades being exposed to martial principles. Regardless of why, it is a cornerstone of what I teach. Without a reference point for application, many techniques are simply that - just technique. I believe that teaching these courses with a philosophical focus, moves them into the "next level" of training. The cornerstone philosophy I teach is the fighting mind. Regardless of size, stature or physical strength, you must "Stay in the Fight" if you are ever forced into a personal protection scenario. It is a "Never Surrender" mentality and is an attitude that must be honed.
Special Announcement
Force Options Certified Firearms Instructor Program
It is with great excitement and anticipation that we launch the Force Options Certified Firearms Instructor Program. For the first time qualified individuals will be able to team up with Force Options and provide exceptional firearms training. Candidates for these elite positions will receive ongoing team support from Force Options while teaching one of the most advanced and real world curriculums seen in the industry.
A New Year
As we move into a new year I can not help but look back at what we have accomplished. 2010 was a great year for Force Options. We enjoyed a full schedule of training and more importantly, we made many new friends. The past year will pale in comparison to 2011 however. With an already expansive schedule we are set to enjoy our best year yet.
