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.
This mindset can not be easily formed unless you seriously train in the specific arts that you embrace. Understand that there is a world of difference between "Training" and "Practicing". Training is the forging of your spirit in physically, mentally, and emotionally challenging events. It develops with an attitude in which you are never just going through the motions. Every repetition has to matter as if your life depends on it. That is indeed a lot to ask of any person in training. However, the fruits of that effort far outweigh the exhaustion that accompanies such focus and intent. The fruits of that labor are what will transform you from a technician to a warrior. It is a difficult lifelong, but worthy path... My very best to all of you in your training endeavors. I sincerely hope we get the opportunity to train together!
Fred Mastison
President - Force Options Tactical Training Solutions
