There have been so many articles written on the difference between practicing and training that I hesitated to even breach the subject. However, I feel that it is such an important topic that I should explore it here. I have a very firm training philosophy when it comes to everything I teach. From firearms to open hand combatives the theme is the same. Train as you would fight. Simple enough to understand yet difficult to implement. This is as true for instructors as it is trainees, A common example can be found on the range. Many times people simply stand on the line and do drills. Their mind is completely wrapped around the drill. The second the drill ends, their mind drifts as the exercise is "over". I see this mindset in many of the newer students I get. They fire their string and then without any real after actions execute a speed re-holster. This is a dangerous mindset and does a great disservice to the student if we do not correct it.
You must "Stay In The Fight!" What I mean by this is that you must have a fighting mind in your training. When you do any "drill" you do it as if it were the real deal. When the shooting is done you stay there a moment and execute good scans and after action. Then and only then do you reluctantly and slowly sling or reholster your weapon. One of the most common areas I see people break from their fighting mind is during malfunctions. They are running a course of fire then the weapon goes down. Their mind changes into an administrative state. Malfunction clearances are not an administrative issue - they are a fighting issue and should be taught as such. While I acknowledge that it is important to teach skills in steps, the students need to quickly transition to applying those steps in a fighting fashion.
As instructors we have the ability to instill this mindset into our students. Hold them accountable for mental breaks in their fighting mind. You see them go administrative on a malfunction or magazine change then encourage them to not let that change their mindset. This can be done even in beginners' courses. It simply takes effort on the instructor's part.
As students we must endeavor to understand that you are training to fight - possibly for your life. Take your training seriously. If that means the you are a bit slower to reset, then so be it. No fight was ever won by a speed re-holster. When you attend a class, be ready both mentally and physically. Have your mags constantly loaded and your weapon ready with a full mag. This is a habit that will quickly separate you from recreational shooters.
I could obviously go on for some time but will summarize with this. If you are serious about training or teaching, then recognize that you are training to fight. Not against a clock or turning target, but a dedicated adversary that is ready and willing to harm you or a loved one. Your mindset will dictate what type of shooter you become. In the end you must "Stay in the Fight!"
Stay Safe!
Fred Mastison
President - Force Options Tactical Training Solutions
