tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49570096408458386992024-02-02T15:19:06.445-08:00Joe-Saunders.com - A Psycho-Social View on Self Defence, and Human BettermentThe rantings and ravings of a man with too much to say and too few words to say it in. Discussions on human behaviour as it pertains to violence and aggression, as well as practical self defence tips for those in need.Joe Saundershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01302606552437923780noreply@blogger.comBlogger30125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4957009640845838699.post-70148066839329569222011-03-26T17:31:00.000-07:002011-03-26T17:31:27.980-07:00Inspirational Quote from Richard DimitriHere is an inspirational and deceptively deep quote from my friend, mentor and brother, Richard Dimitri. Rich posted this on Facebook this morning and it struct a chord with me, so I thought I'd share:<br />
<br />
<blockquote><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 14px;"><b>"Fuck anonymity. Own your words. Own your thoughts. Own your actions. Own your damn lives already. Anonymity will get you nowhere. There is no respect for those with no accountability. Speak your minds and sign your names. Stand up for what you believe and not what you're told to believe. DO SOME SHIT."</b> <i>- Richard Dimitri</i></span></blockquote><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitjvlE_dYgih9iIplmnRGKEzXOJAna_Cw58Vo6E1XOaD0r3V1_fjx4IEZvILOsiCYp0_2neZhl-W_znk3c_cUuFh2Zim_62xp1YBnzyhqQjsnDvVeMyyJYZDLtaK0IqTF01zRpZzAiSxQ7/s1600/Rich+headshot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitjvlE_dYgih9iIplmnRGKEzXOJAna_Cw58Vo6E1XOaD0r3V1_fjx4IEZvILOsiCYp0_2neZhl-W_znk3c_cUuFh2Zim_62xp1YBnzyhqQjsnDvVeMyyJYZDLtaK0IqTF01zRpZzAiSxQ7/s200/Rich+headshot.jpg" width="133" /></a></div><br />
<br />
Words to live by.Joe Saundershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01302606552437923780noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4957009640845838699.post-87800800873885107362011-01-03T17:43:00.000-08:002011-03-25T01:42:14.881-07:00Top 5 Excuses NOT to learn Self Defence<i><b>This blog is a guest contribution from Chris Roberts of <a href="http://www.safeinternational.biz/">SAFE International</a></b></i> <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.selfdefensecanada.info/.a/6a0120a7f51907970b01348869c68b970c-800wi" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Excuses" border="0" height="149" src="http://www.selfdefensecanada.info/.a/6a0120a7f51907970b01348869c68b970c-800wi" style="margin-top: 0px;" title="Excuses" width="200" /></a>In this blog, I will look at the Top 5 Excuses I have heard to not learn self defense. While my business SAFE International obviously has a vested interest in self defense since it is my profession and passion, I find it interesting to hear so many excuses to not learn self defense. While it would be great to spend weeks, months, and years learning how to protect oneself and their family, I still hear the excuses when it comes to just spending a few hours learning this valuable skill that could potentially save your life or the life on one of your family members.<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<b>Excuse #1 - I AM TOO OLD!</b><br />
I hear this one from people even in the 30's or 40's. Regardless of your age, you are never too old to learn self defense. In fact, seniors should definitely learn some self defense skills, if only preventative skills. An attacker chooses someone who they feel will be an easy victim, which is exactly why seniors should partake in a course. If an 85 year old woman sticks her fingers in my eyes, it will still hurt and one of the things an attacker does not want, is to get hurt.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Excuse#2 - IT COSTS TOO MUCH</b>!<br />
This is one excuse I find can be quite frustrating. Let me start by saying that I can completely understand that people have financial challenges. That being said, sometimes when I will quote a price, people will say that they find it too expensive, but will have no problem going out and spending a hundred dollars on dinner. If you knew that sometime in your life you would be attacked, how much would you be willing to invest in some basic self defense training? What if it was your child? I would guess that there might not be a limit. Now some people might get upset with me bringing their children into it, but there is nothing more important in this world than the safety of yourself and your family. The problem is that people are willing to gamble with the odds of being attacked instead of being proactive and learning some self defense as an insurance policy. I have recently had a few women contact me about learning self defense with their daughter. I have congratulated them on being proactive because most people are reactive, waiting until something happens to them before learning any personal protection skills. I have blogged before about an 18 year old woman who was held up at knife point and got away. Ask her if what she paid to learn self defense was too much?<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Excuse#3 - LOOK AT ME, WHY WOULD ANYONE ATTACK ME?</b><br />
This is an excuse I hear from younger women to women in their senior years. There is still a feeling among many that only attractive people get attacked or sexually assaulted. Rape has nothing to do with what the person looks like. It is an act of being in power and controlling a person. There have been women of all ages, looks, etc attacked. Many senior women in to their 80's have been attacked and sexually assaulted. Anyone is a potential victim. Regardless of your self esteem about your looks, it is important to learn self defense skills. An attacker looking to rob someone is not choosing you on how attractive you are, but rather, if you look like a good potential victim who is not confident or aware.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Excuse#4 - I AM NOT STRONG ENOUGH TO DEFEND MYSELF!</b><br />
Guess what? The majority of the time you will not be as strong as your attacker. That is one of the reasons they chose you. There are not many attackers looking for a challenge. They want someone who appears to be weaker and vulnerable. This can actually work to your advantage. If someone chooses you as a victim, you can use that false sense of confidence they have to your advantage through the element of surprise. When you develop the proper reasons to fight, which I learned through Tony Blauer, you can develop the proper triggers and mindset to defend yourself. I always tell women that I would rather attack your stereotype big, bad biker than an angry mother who is fighting for their child. The mother has more to fight for because her reasons are Personal, Passionate, and Present.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Excuse#5 - I DON'T HAVE TIME!</b><br />
Everyone leads busy lives these days and finding time can sometimes be a challenge. Some people might want to learn self defense, but can't commit to ongoing classes or even to committing to one night a week for six weeks. This is why SAFE International offers a four hour course delivered all at one time. With four hours we can't make anyone an expert, but we can teach them some basic, effective skills that can be learned in a short period of time. SAFE International can teach your company, family, privately in your environment to save you the time of travelling somewhere to learn.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.selfdefensecanada.info/.a/6a0120a7f51907970b012876f8b85e970c-150wi" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.selfdefensecanada.info/.a/6a0120a7f51907970b012876f8b85e970c-150wi" /></a><i><b style="font-weight: normal;">Chris Robert's SAFE International has taught more than 120,000 clients personal protection skills throughout Canada since 1994. For more info you can visit <a href="http://www.safeinternational.biz/">www.safeinternational.biz</a> and <a href="http://www.highschoolselfdefense.com/">www.highschoolselfdefense.com</a> Chris can be contacted directly at chrisroberts@safeinternational.biz</b></i>Joe Saundershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01302606552437923780noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4957009640845838699.post-25111775137324494832011-01-03T05:03:00.000-08:002011-03-25T01:42:40.805-07:00Injecting Realism into Traditional Martial Arts<div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiranIcUBb7q7flQITfZUosdk9NEgioZrLxSv8PoP3buDq1Icp48x8gnhb6qNpyCXGZ8-SLBSOBysmu1lZP07EC4dQ8D5Bp88t1c5LfWS-NyH_GutRzydiFbfCH5KSOlV-Dat41Tz4rbaf/s1600/tkd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="148" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiranIcUBb7q7flQITfZUosdk9NEgioZrLxSv8PoP3buDq1Icp48x8gnhb6qNpyCXGZ8-SLBSOBysmu1lZP07EC4dQ8D5Bp88t1c5LfWS-NyH_GutRzydiFbfCH5KSOlV-Dat41Tz4rbaf/s200/tkd.jpg" width="200" /></a><span lang="EN-AU">As a long term traditional martial artist, as well as a fierce proponent of reality-based self-defence (RBSD), I am often asked how I can seemingly play for both teams. Unfortunately, these days it seems that you are either one or the other. Some traditional martial artists scoff at the idea of running around in street clothes and role-playing in what they see as more of a bad acting class than a martial arts class. However, there are many open minded instructors that are curious about what RBSD may offer, but reluctant to abandon what they currently teach. The good news is you don’t have to. Read on to find five ways to incorporate some reality into your classes without pretending to be an Israeli commando.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><br />
<a name='more'></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><b><span lang="EN-AU"><span style="color: red;">1.</span> Time to get “live”</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-AU">The concept of “aliveness” has been popularised in recent years by Matt Thornton of Straight Blast Gym International. However, it is nothing new. Aliveness simply refers to practising techniques with energy, timing and motion. That means making your <i>uke</i> or training partner less cooperative. Have them fight back. Have them move. Make sure that the <i>tori</i> (attacker) has to use good footwork, timing and correct bio-mechanics to make the technique work.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-AU">Of course, some traditional styles already incorporate this as a standard part of their training. <i>Kyokushin Karate, Judo, Tae Kwon Do, San Shou</i> and others all use free sparring (alive training) to polish the sporting aspects of their art. This is great, but it should be applied to self defence sessions as well. Why do we acknowledge that you need to spar to fight a trained opponent, but static practise is fine to prepare for an untrained opponent?</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-AU">Many instructors will make note that when you make training “live” you also increase the risk of injury. This is true. However, like anything, the intensity in live drills is scalable. As students manage to perform the technique against 20% resistance, it can be increased to 50%, 70% and so on until eventually students are performing self defence techniques against 100% resistance. The benefits for the student with this style of training are far superior to those achieved through static, “dead” training.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><b><span lang="EN-AU"><span style="color: red;">2.</span> Practise defences against realistic attacks</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-AU"> So now that you’ve got your students moving at a realistic pace against realistic resistance, it’s time we look at what sort of attacks they’re actually defending themselves against. You only need look at any martial arts magazine in the Technique Demonstration pages to see the kind of fantasy world many martial artists live in. No one walks up to you in a park and attacks with a spinning moon kick. And while they may attack with a straight right punch, it won’t be delivered from a perfect long stance with a loud <i>kiai</i>!</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-AU">If you’ve ever been in a real fight (not a <i>dojo</i> fight, and not a sport fight) think back to what that was like and how chaotic the movements were. If you’ve never been in a fight, that’s okay too. Contrary to what some in the RBSD field would have you believe, you don’t need to have been a special forces commando or life-long bouncer to teach realistic self-defence. Does experience with violence help? Yes it does, but it’s not absolutely necessary. You can make up the experience deficit by being an avid student of violence. Nearly every night on the news you will see CCTV footage of fights. Watch it, pay attention to the details, and mimic it in class.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-AU">If you’re going to do punch defence, practise against a wild haymaker, or the common ‘grab and strike’ blitz attack. If you’re going to practise knife defence, then attack for real! Your students have the right to know what they’re actually preparing for. For a look at realistic knife training, watch <u><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9665PmNsmsw">this video</a>.</u></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><b><span lang="EN-AU"><span style="color: red;">3. </span>Try training in regular clothes</span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-AU">It is amusing to me that one of the things that both camps (traditionalists and RBSD’ers) pick on each other about is choice of clothing. Both seem to think the other is playing dress up, and sometimes they’re spot on. After all, for many, martial arts are as much about image as they are about art or self defence.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-AU">While I do agree that dressing in camouflage and combat boots is silly if you’re not actually in the military, there is something to be said for occasionally wearing your civvies to training. This doesn’t mean you have to throw away your traditional outfit. To be honest, I still quite enjoy putting on my best white <i>judogi</i>, and there’s something special about snapping out a <i>gedan barai</i> wearing my finely pressed <i>kyokushin dogi</i>. However, wearing a pair of leather shoes, jeans and a t-shirt can dramatically alter the effectiveness of certain techniques. It doesn’t have to be an every class thing, but once in a while training in different attire can be very beneficial for identifying holes in your real world self defence strategy.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><b><span lang="EN-AU"><span style="color: red;">4.</span> Polish up the bad acting</span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-AU">For those who have spent decades dedicated to the three K’s of <i>Kihon, Kata</i> and <i>Kumite</i>, I’d like to introduce the fourth K: <i>Krappy acting</i>. Okay, I kid. Sort of.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-AU">Role-playing or scenario training is a vital component of what makes reality-based self-defence unique. Once you’ve practised techniques against alive resistance, ensured the attacks are realistic, and tested your defences in regular clothing, the last step is to give the situation context. Here is where your acting skills need to come out.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-AU">Importantly, violence is not just physical. Most violence has a verbal beginning, either with a challenge, a taunt or a set up question. Training your students how to respond to these tactics is just as vital as teaching them how to respond to the bottle hurtling towards their head. If you don’t know how they should respond, that’s fine, tell them that and get someone who does know to come in and teach a workshop. I am available for just this purpose.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-AU">While you may never win an Oscar for your performance, role playing common conflicts will greatly assist your students in contextualising the physical responses they have trained. It will also show them that most situations can be handled verbally, before the need for physical intervention. Furthermore, it’s fun, forces personal growth, and is a great ego killer for the class.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><b><span lang="EN-AU"><span style="color: red;">5.</span> Be honest</span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-AU">The number one thing you can do to make your training more realistic for self defence is to simply be honest with yourself and your class. What if a technique that you’ve believed in for twenty years just doesn’t work when tested under pressure against a realistic attack? This can be confronting for many instructors, and is a major reason why many will never introduce these kinds of training methods. Be grateful that you found it doesn’t work in class and not when you were relying on it to save you on the street. Admit to your students that it may not be the best option and resolve to find something better.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-AU">If you do happen to find elements from another style, or simply a new training methodology that works better than what you’re currently doing, have the integrity to share that with your students. Many of the greatest martial artists that I know achieved high <i>dan</i> grades in their first style before finding a hole in their training. Rather than close their eyes and put their fingers in their ears, they sought further training to plug the hole. For many, this has resulted in a life time of study. For their students, it has resulted in the best possible self-defence tuition.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><b><span lang="EN-AU">Conclusion</span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-AU">Despite these days being mostly considered an RBSD practitioner, I do see great value in traditional martial arts training. There is nothing wrong with training in a <i>dogi,</i> bowing, lining up before class, using foreign terminology for the sake of tradition or even practising traditional <i>kata</i> or forms. All of those things make up the unique spirit of your art. You do not need to sacrifice any of that to add some realism to your training and give your students the best bang for their self-defence buck. Who knows, it may save someone’s life. It may even be fun.</span></div>Joe Saundershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01302606552437923780noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4957009640845838699.post-24612254418651665392010-12-23T03:07:00.000-08:002011-03-25T01:42:14.882-07:00Ho ho ho! Top Ten Personal Safety Tips for Christmas<div class="separator" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtFypv9DApVPgdjpM3M6HXdg7C1FhjqksM7MF-PXIP1oB1C4Di7gP6QALeenZT3vhIuVBiDyOO5uREG2ZibtvprT3R-M_c4fuD-qDANG0rHsinuwjqliGmynbNLUltqrPcpeQ2aeqDqSU1/s200/christmas-tree.jpg" width="150" /></div><span lang="EN-AU"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span lang="EN-AU"><b style="color: red;">HO! HO HO!</b> </span><br />
<br />
<span lang="EN-AU">For many people, Christmas Day is the happiest and most festive day of the year. The whole season is one of joy, sharing, compassion and love. Regardless of what religious significance you attach to the holiday season, one cannot help but notice that the general feeling of good will does increase towards the end of December. Maybe it’s because we know we won’t have to go to work! Sadly, for some people, tragedy strikes to sour this most festive of occasions. Here’s how you can avoid it.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
<br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><b><span lang="EN-AU">10. Try not to get too stressed</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span lang="EN-AU">Obviously this is easier said than done. However simple relaxation techniques such as deep breathing and centring can help quash that temper of yours when competing over the last ham at the butcher. Manage your own stress levels and you will also reduce the stress levels of all those you have contact with, dramatically decreasing the chances of a conflict.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><b><span lang="EN-AU">9. Be vigilant at supermarkets</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span lang="EN-AU">While for many of us Christmas is a time of abundance and indulgence, for some it is a time of desperation, shame, guilt and a reminder of poverty. This can sometimes lead to good people taking the easy way out and doing something they would never otherwise do, such as snatching a purse or a wallet. Gents, if you carry your wallet in your back pocket, keep the pocket buttoned. Ladies, DO NOT leave your purse in an open handbag, and DO NOT leave your handbag unattended in your trolley. These simple steps will make you a much more difficult target.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><b><span lang="EN-AU">8. Watch the kids</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span lang="EN-AU">Sadly, Christmas is also a time of increased child abduction. After enduring a week with a house full of bored children, it can seem like a godsend when they want to go out and play on their own for a while. Be sensible though. Ensure they have adult supervision or at least an older sibling (15+ preferably) to watch over them, and never let a child younger than 12 walk somewhere on their own. We don’t need another Daniel Morcombe. Look after your little ones, folks.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><b><span lang="EN-AU">7. Drive carefully</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span lang="EN-AU">Every year in Australia, we lose hundreds of people on our roads. Christmas road tolls are notoriously high due to a combination of liquor, cars filled to full occupancy and general stress levels. This year in the Eastern states of Australia, that will be compounded by heavy rain. Take it easy. You’re on holidays. Slow down! If you have kids, remember what you truly have to lose. They’re sitting in the back seat.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><b><span lang="EN-AU">6. Look out for your neighbours</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span lang="EN-AU">The spirit of Christmas is one of giving and celebrating the fellow good of man. It is a time of togetherness and unity. However, for those with no one, it can be a desperately lonely time. This is especially true for the elderly. If you know you have a neighbour spending Christmas alone, why not invite them over? Or maybe even just a courtesy Merry Christmas door knock in the morning? You’ll be amazed at how a simple friendly gesture can change someone’s entire outlook on life.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><b><span lang="EN-AU">5. Be mindful of home security</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span lang="EN-AU">As mentioned at number nine, Christmas can be a time of desperation. Stories of Christmas presents and other valuables being stolen in the days leading up to Christmas Day are sadly not uncommon. Lock up, turn your security lights on and pay attention.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><b><span lang="EN-AU">4. Keep family squabbles in perspective</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span lang="EN-AU">While for most of us, Christmas is synonymous with laughter and good cheer, for many others it is synonymous with arguing, bickering, and bloody Aunt Judy having a few too many shandies. More fights break out between family members at Christmas time than any other time of year. Just remember to keep it in perspective. After all, they are family. And if you really don’t like them that much, don’t invite them!</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><b><span lang="EN-AU">3. Enjoy the time</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span lang="EN-AU">Relax! Enjoy the break, enjoy a few drinks if that’s what you like, enjoy the looks on the kids’ faces. Don’t think about the bills, about the mess or about Uncle Bob’s stories that you’ve heard a thousand times before. Relax. Soak it up. It only happens once a year. Smile and enjoy yourself.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><b><span lang="EN-AU">2. Drink in moderation</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span lang="EN-AU">Ah yes, alcohol; one of the biggest culprits of them all when we talk about the causes of violence. Having a few beers with a barbeque lunch is a fine tradition. Having a carton and beating up your cousin is not. Worse, driving home after that carton is stupidity, incredibly selfish and places unknown lives at risk. If you’re going to drink, be responsible for your actions. If you’re going to drive, don’t drink. Simple.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><b><span lang="EN-AU">1. Be good to each other</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span lang="EN-AU">The number one thing you can do in general to have a violence-free Christmas is simply to be good to each other. Be tolerant, be kind, be joyous. Help out those in need. Offer an olive branch to settle that family feud (if only for one day.) Offer the best piece of Pavlova to your mother in law… you know you can do it. Be good to each other. What better way to end the year and start the next one?</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span lang="EN-AU">Merry Christmas to you all and to all a wonderful 2011.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><i><span lang="EN-AU">Joe Saunders</span></i></div>Joe Saundershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01302606552437923780noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4957009640845838699.post-63644731900478807552010-12-20T02:19:00.000-08:002011-03-25T01:42:14.883-07:00Self Defence Begins with the Self<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvSvFSotuDQpiIP7XYLwMfPoCZ9xcBh48llv-QOfcv70RZJ3djUxRIibjFMlXYE3Lk9IvlnPv-bira7tmpBXTzEhuD2hhb90o1PYuPbF5YhX4JmriPTNABHLjbfgfLyK6oLTaj8-o0szHU/s1600/woman+road+rage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvSvFSotuDQpiIP7XYLwMfPoCZ9xcBh48llv-QOfcv70RZJ3djUxRIibjFMlXYE3Lk9IvlnPv-bira7tmpBXTzEhuD2hhb90o1PYuPbF5YhX4JmriPTNABHLjbfgfLyK6oLTaj8-o0szHU/s200/woman+road+rage.jpg" width="132" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span lang="EN-AU">The first time someone gets involved in a confrontation that spirals out of their control, their first thought is often “I need to learn how to defend myself.” With that, they will Google, they will read, and then will often end up at the local martial arts club, boxing gym or MMA academy. Convinced that learning how to fight better will solve their issues, they throw themselves into training. They attend class 2-3 nights per week, pay their money, sweat, bleed, cry and feel proud of their efforts. Next time when that bully/abusive boyfriend/drunken idiot at the bar hassles them, they’ll teach him a lesson, right? Maybe.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span lang="EN-AU">Very rarely is a far more important question asked; “What could I have done to prevent this from happening in the first place?”</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span lang="EN-AU">You see, it is much easier to convince ourselves that anything bad in our lives is the fault of someone else. He was checking out my girl. He was being disrespectful. He cut in line. She spilt her drink on me. She was nasty to my child. He cut me off. How dare he? How could she? He had it coming. I couldn’t back down, could I? I was only standing up for myself. I was in the right. Do you see the pattern here? It is a pattern of constant blame of another, constant justification of the self and constant submission to the frailties of ego.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span lang="EN-AU">In reality, we are all responsible for our own actions. It is our own choice how we respond to a given situation. We can choose to respond aggressively, to respond passively, or to respond assertively. Just as every action has an equal and opposite reaction, every response that emanates from your voice, posture or body language is going to have an effect on the unfolding situation. The truth is, if you respond to a protagonist in an aggressive manner (men will most commonly shape up to the threat, whilst females will most often sneer or make an obscene gesture) then you are no longer defending yourself. You are now participating in a fight. And guess what? You are every bit as much to blame as the one who “started it.” You continued it. You made your choice. Own it.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span lang="EN-AU">It seems to be a failing of our society that we encourage righteous indignation at even the slightest hint of impropriety or disrespect. Am I saying that nothing is worth fighting for? Absolutely not. If I felt that way I would quit teaching self defence and join the pathetic parade of civil libertarians condemning the actions of police, military and everyone else braver than they. I don’t believe that for a second. However, I do believe that violence is rarely a necessary occurrence for the average citizen. It certainly should not be a common solution to a social disagreement.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span lang="EN-AU">It is perfectly natural to feel anger, hatred, fear and embarrassment. These are emotions that are hardwired into us. Yes, even the most peaceful of us are capable of feeling the overpowering bloodlust of rage gripping every fibre of our being. The desire to “save face”, to protect the ego, or defend social standing is a part of our psychology and has been since primates first started competing for hierarchy and mating rights. However, we have (or at least should have) evolved past being slaves to our first instinctive response. Imagine how dating would look if we hadn’t!</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span lang="EN-AU">It’s not hard to notice the anger building inside of you. Perhaps a cold sweat, the hair standing up on the back of your neck, your pulse quickening, adrenaline coursing through your veins, your fists subconsciously clenching, your facial muscles tightening to bare your teeth… these are all dead giveaways that your body is preparing itself for a fight. Listen to what your body is telling you, and then take control consciously and ask yourself “Is this worth fighting over? Can I possibly make this situation any better through violence?” I’ll let you in on something; if you’re honest, the answer will nearly always be no.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span lang="EN-AU">Truth is, for the average citizen in a Western country, there are many alternatives to violence in most situations. Most commonly, we could simply accept that we may have played a part in the escalation of the situation, and that it could just be two good people having a bad day and overreacting. After all, 95% of people you are ever likely to meet are going to be good, rational people. We are all prone to snapping when the final straw lands upon our back though. It is certainly my desire to never become involved in a violent confrontation with a good person that may result in an injury to someone just having a bad day.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span lang="EN-AU">This is why I have an overwhelming moral objection to martial arts and combatives systems that encourage a physical solution to every social problem. “He spills his drink on you – side kick to collapse his knee.” Or perhaps “She flirts with your boyfriend – finger jab to the eyes, hair slam into bar.” It sounds ridiculous, but there are trainers teaching this rubbish! These systems are inherently flawed as they do not adequately represent the complex landscape that is social violence in our 21<sup>st</sup> century society. Good self defence does not leave you with a lifetime of regret, nor put you inside a cell for six months where you are far more likely to be the victim of violent crime.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span lang="EN-AU">What is the best way to defend ourselves from these situations? Introspection. Did I contribute to this situation? Could I have avoided it entirely? Did I react appropriately? Did I have other options? Could I have talked my way out or been more polite? Did I consider the safety of those in my care? Did I set a good example for my children to follow? These are the questions we need to ask. They are examples of personal responsibility, accountability and maturity. This, is true self defence.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span lang="EN-AU">You can go either way, really. It’s up to you. Make your choice. Own it.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><i><span lang="EN-AU">Joe Saunders</span></i></div>Joe Saundershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01302606552437923780noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4957009640845838699.post-18217621861529241542010-08-05T16:52:00.000-07:002011-03-25T01:40:41.993-07:00Video: Scenario TrainingAnother short video from the earlier years of Senshido. In this clip we see how scenario training with verbal dialogue and multiple attackers changes the training environment considerably. You also get a chance to see the Shredder in action in a live, no-compliance drill.<br/><br/><object height="350" width="425"><br/> <param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Woz2_nvvis4&feature=related"><br/> <param name="wmode" value="transparent"><br/> <embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Woz2_nvvis4&feature=related;rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" height="350" width="425"><br/> </object>Joe Saundershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01302606552437923780noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4957009640845838699.post-15607945739808584802010-08-05T16:37:00.000-07:002011-03-25T01:40:41.994-07:00Video: Pattern InterruptionGreetings all. Sorry about the long break between videos, as you can see, we've been very busy! Today's video is again from Rich Dimitri and is a brief excerpt from his On the Cutting Edge Seminar. In this particular clip, Rich touches on the conceppt of Pattern Interruption and how to use your verbal skills to mask your physical retaliation. Enjoy!<br/><br/><object height="350" width="425"><br/> <param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/dVQ2NSxDvqI"><br/> <param name="wmode" value="transparent"><br/> <embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/dVQ2NSxDvqI;rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" height="350" width="425"><br/> </object>Joe Saundershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01302606552437923780noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4957009640845838699.post-24997918101639245092010-07-27T02:35:00.000-07:002011-03-25T01:40:41.995-07:00Video: The ShiftToday's video is a nice example of where the Senshido International Movement is going, and also the overall ethos of Progressive Defence. Whilst we do teach reality-based self defence methods, this video outlines our true greater purpose - the elimination of violence, the empowering of people and betterment of humanity. Please watch.<br/><br/><object height="350" width="425"><br/> <param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/hL_VTdxvWac&feature=player_embedded"><br/> <param name="wmode" value="transparent"><br/> <embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/hL_VTdxvWac&feature=player_embedded;rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" height="350" width="425"><br/> </object>Joe Saundershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01302606552437923780noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4957009640845838699.post-29670608739805959782010-07-26T14:14:00.000-07:002011-03-25T01:40:41.996-07:00Video: The Nervous System's Effects on Self DefenceHere is another clip from a recent Progressive Defence seminar in which chief instructor, Joe Saunders, outlines the effects of the sympathetic nervous system during a high stress violent altercation, and how it can impair combat effectiveness. Enjoy.<br/><br/><object height="350" width="425"><br/> <param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/343_sVq6f_I"><br/> <param name="wmode" value="transparent"><br/> <embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/343_sVq6f_I;rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" height="350" width="425"><br/> </object>Joe Saundershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01302606552437923780noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4957009640845838699.post-83390752143882284182010-07-20T10:44:00.000-07:002011-03-25T01:40:41.998-07:00Video: Self Defence vs Fighting vs Martial ArtsIn this short clip from a recent Progressive Defence seminar, our own Joe Saunders discusses some of the differences between self defence, fighting and martial arts. Enjoy.<br/><br/><object height="350" width="425"><br/> <param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/6BLbT9lbeYI"><br/> <param name="wmode" value="transparent"><br/> <embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/6BLbT9lbeYI;rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" height="350" width="425"><br/> </object>Joe Saundershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01302606552437923780noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4957009640845838699.post-779350362838984662010-07-14T13:41:00.000-07:002011-03-25T01:40:41.999-07:00Daily Video: 14.07.2010 - Self Defence Against FruitAnother one just for fun today. :)<br/><br/>Sadly, this Monty Python skit is possibly more practical than much of what is taught as self defence in many martial arts academies these days. Enjoy!<br/><br/><object height="350" width="425"><br/> <param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/piWCBOsJr-w"><br/> <param name="wmode" value="transparent"><br/> <embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/piWCBOsJr-w;rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" height="350" width="425"><br/> </object>Joe Saundershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01302606552437923780noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4957009640845838699.post-49006508072255387582010-07-13T13:35:00.000-07:002011-03-25T01:40:41.999-07:00Daily Video: 13.07.2010 - Senshido on Multiple AttackersToday's video is from one of the original Senshido DVD's, "Outnumbered but not Outgunned" and deals with strategies to survive mutiple attacker situations. Enjoy!<br/><br/><object height="350" width="425"><br/> <param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/T8IQmKx0QNg"><br/> <param name="wmode" value="transparent"><br/> <embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/T8IQmKx0QNg;rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" height="350" width="425"><br/> </object>Joe Saundershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01302606552437923780noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4957009640845838699.post-40329438637221004222010-07-13T12:38:00.000-07:002011-03-25T01:40:42.000-07:00Daily Video: 12.07.2010 - Martial Arts BloopersJust for fun today, a reminder not to take your training so seriously you can't have a laugh at yoruself. Remember to keep it simple!<br/><br/><object height="350" width="425"><br/> <param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/ExF976UNuA8"><br/> <param name="wmode" value="transparent"><br/> <embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/ExF976UNuA8;rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" height="350" width="425"><br/> </object>Joe Saundershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01302606552437923780noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4957009640845838699.post-65378678295342070602010-07-11T15:06:00.000-07:002011-03-25T01:40:42.003-07:00Daily Video: 10.07.2010 - Gracie BullyProofThe following clip is taken from the Gracie JiuJitsu "BullyProof" program and addresses their use of the term "Verbal Jiujitsu" as it relates to schoolyard bullying. While we don't necessarily agree with all points made in this clip, it is still interesting and worth watching. Enjoy. :)<br/><br/><object height="350" width="425"><br/> <param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/p8Lxcc_ChE8&feature=related"><br/> <param name="wmode" value="transparent"><br/> <embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/p8Lxcc_ChE8&feature=related;rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" height="350" width="425"><br/> </object>Joe Saundershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01302606552437923780noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4957009640845838699.post-27438496099475738732010-07-11T14:32:00.000-07:002011-03-25T01:40:42.004-07:00Daily Video: 09.07.2010 - Abduction Protection for ChildrenHello all. You may have noticed this video and the next one are being posted retroactively. We must apologise, as circumstances beyond our control prevented a daily video being posted on time for Friday and Saturday. However, they're coming now!<br/><br/>Our first video is a great segment from Tracie Arlington of Play It Safe Self Defence on the Dr Phil show. In this segment, Tracie shows one of the best tactics (and remember, in the real world, tactics are always more important than techniques) to teach a child to prevent abduction. Quick, easy to learn and most importantly, effective! Every parent should teach their kids this tactic.<br/><br/><object height="350" width="425"><br/> <param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/1wMHyrtr6UU"><br/> <param name="wmode" value="transparent"><br/> <embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/1wMHyrtr6UU;rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" height="350" width="425"><br/> </object>Joe Saundershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01302606552437923780noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4957009640845838699.post-25037004425649675552010-07-08T08:07:00.000-07:002011-03-25T01:40:42.006-07:00Daily Video: 08.07.2010 - The Gift of FearIn this video, Gavin DeBecker speaks to an American TV show about his outstanding book "The Gift of Fear" and the principles of intuition and violence prediction he uses in his service to his clients. This is a three part series, but is full of fantastic information. If you are interested in real self defence and have not read DeBecker's work, you owe it to yourself to pick up "The Gift of Fear" and read it cover to cover. Enjoy.<br/><br/><object height="350" width="425"><br/> <param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/HwGS7Jmd00c&feature=PlayList&p=8746189EEA4BDFD7&playnext_from=PL&index=0&playnext=1"><br/> <param name="wmode" value="transparent"><br/> <embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/HwGS7Jmd00c&feature=PlayList&p=8746189EEA4BDFD7&playnext_from=PL&index=0&playnext=1;rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" height="350" width="425"><br/> </object>Joe Saundershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01302606552437923780noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4957009640845838699.post-4395757259790580992010-07-07T15:22:00.000-07:002011-03-25T01:40:42.008-07:00Daily Video: 07.07.2010 - "The Raw Directive"Today's video contains some bad language, so once again, if you have kids or impressionable minds around, best you err on the side of caution.<br/><br/>It comes, once again, courtesy of the AIM Academy in Melbourne (see Resources section) and features RAW Combatives chief instructor, Jim Armstrong. While we do differ in choice of technique in that we advise against closed fist punching for those without high degrees of training, Jim's core message about "flicking the switch" and making a decision to attack is key to all effective self defence. And he phrases it in a way that only a Geordie can. :)<br/><br/>Enjoy!<br/><br/><object height="350" width="425"><br/> <param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/xwiBo6dJ7lE"><br/> <param name="wmode" value="transparent"><br/> <embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/xwiBo6dJ7lE;rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" height="350" width="425"><br/> </object>Joe Saundershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01302606552437923780noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4957009640845838699.post-68318004927920638802010-07-05T05:23:00.000-07:002011-03-25T01:40:42.010-07:00Daily Video: 05.07.2010 - Juggernaut Self DefenceToday's video comes from Juggernaut Self Defence, care of the AIM Academy in Melbourne.<br/><br/>In this video, Juggernaut himself demonstrates how to "Cover, drop and drive" into an attacker and use body movement to put them off balance. He uses many of the same principles as are taught on <em>Progressive Defence</em> seminars, so this could be interesting for <em>Progressive Defence</em> students and non-students alike. Enjoy!<br/><br/><object height="350" width="425"><br/> <param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Zy88y-1-Cxc"><br/> <param name="wmode" value="transparent"><br/> <embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Zy88y-1-Cxc;rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" height="350" width="425"><br/> </object>Joe Saundershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01302606552437923780noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4957009640845838699.post-61800462992822223472010-07-04T13:22:00.000-07:002011-03-25T01:41:08.719-07:00Daily Video: 04.07.2010 - Rich Dimitri on Knife Defence Mistakes<strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">DISCLAIMER:</span> First things first, this clip contains some bad language, so best not to watch with impressionable young minds (or bosses) around. Secondly, this is from a time in Rich's life when he was quite an angry man and has since publicly apologised for the manner in which he conveyed his message in this clip. He regrets the resentful and derogative tone of the message, but stands by the content.</strong><br/><br/>All that aside, Rich raises many valid points in this clip. If you watch this, and then go back and watch the "How NOT to Defend" clip yesterday, you will see what he's/we're talking about. Enjoy. :)<br/><br/><object height="350" width="425"><br/> <param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/6qxIcnaXHDk"><br/> <param name="wmode" value="transparent"><br/> <embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/6qxIcnaXHDk;rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" height="350" width="425"><br/> </object>Joe Saundershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01302606552437923780noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4957009640845838699.post-42377409516254735162010-07-03T03:30:00.000-07:002011-03-25T01:41:08.720-07:00Daily Video: 03.07.2010 – How NOT to Defend Against a Knife AttackAs a follow up to the last video, here is an example of two "experts" showing an irresponsible technique.<br/><br/><object height="350" width="425"><br/> <param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/JubcEXTqwFM&NR=1&feature=fvwp"><br/> <param name="wmode" value="transparent"><br/> <embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/JubcEXTqwFM&NR=1&feature=fvwp;rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" height="350" width="425"><br/> </object><br/><br/>I'm not into trashing individual styles, as quite often it's the practitioner or instructor that makes the style, not the style itself. However, I will address this particular technique sequence. Notice that this is done with absolutely zero intensity or realism. The attack slowly lunges forward and then freezes. Why would he do this? He doesn't with draw his hand and try to stab again (reality) which would in effect cancel the following up joint manipulation into the hammerlock. I also seriously doubt he'd be able to stab his assailant in the back, or strip the knife so easily.<br/><br/>This is why we MUST train with intensity and energy! I don't know who these two gentlemen are, but I'm sure they think they're doing the right thing and teaching quality self defence. But quite simply, trying this will get someone killed! This is one of the reasons why the entire Progressive Defence team, as well as all of our recommended trainers, pressure test every technique before teaching it to anyone else. We need to be sure it works.<br/><br/>Please keep this in mind next time you think you're learning an awesome technique that is sure to impress your friends. Often it's the unimpressive techniques that work.Joe Saundershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01302606552437923780noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4957009640845838699.post-67622752464605805372010-07-03T03:23:00.000-07:002011-03-25T01:41:08.722-07:00Daily Video: 03.07.2010 – Realities of Knife AttacksOkay, so we missed a video yesterday! To make up for it, we'll be uploading two videos today and one tomorrow that are all related to knife defence. Few subjects in the martial arts and self defence are taught as irresponsibly as knife defence. Anything fancy, anything tricky, anything that looks too "Gucci" is not going to work. Period. With a committed, frenzied knife attack, any small mistake you make can be fatal. The first video is from StreetFightSecrets and addresses this point quite well.<br/><br/><object height="350" width="425"><br/> <param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/PmH1r73tjhY&feature=related"><br/> <param name="wmode" value="transparent"><br/> <embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/PmH1r73tjhY&feature=related;rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" height="350" width="425"><br/> </object>Joe Saundershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01302606552437923780noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4957009640845838699.post-16630441904932079132010-07-01T10:02:00.000-07:002011-03-25T01:41:08.723-07:00Daily Video: 01.07.2010 - ATM Mugging DefenceToday's video comes from Tony Blauer, founder of Blauer Tactical Systems. In this video, Tony goes through a great strategy for avoiding being mugged at ATMs. It requires intuition, quick thinking and a little bit of acting, but it's certainly a better option than fighting for your life or losing all your money! Enjoy.<br/><br/><object height="350" width="425"><br/> <param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/fpEQICb-9Sg&feature=related"><br/> <param name="wmode" value="transparent"><br/> <embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/fpEQICb-9Sg&feature=related;rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" height="350" width="425"><br/> </object>Joe Saundershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01302606552437923780noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4957009640845838699.post-15249624937701657692010-06-30T05:53:00.000-07:002011-03-25T01:41:08.724-07:00Daily Video: 30.06.2010 - Forgiveness is PowerToday's video comes once again from one of the pioneers of RBSD training, Geoff Thompson. In this video, Geoff talks about the importance of forgiving those that have done you wrong - not for their sake, but so that you may allow yourself to let go of the "duty" attached to hatred and vengeance. This video may not be for everyone, as it discusses some very sensitive issues regarding pedophilia, of which Geoff was a victim as a young boy. I encourage everyone to watch it and make up their own minds.<br/><br/><object height="350" width="425"><br/> <param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/wKIYcTfzW24"><br/> <param name="wmode" value="transparent"><br/> <embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/wKIYcTfzW24;rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" height="350" width="425"><br/> </object>Joe Saundershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01302606552437923780noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4957009640845838699.post-83683331226097222452010-06-28T23:44:00.000-07:002011-03-25T01:41:08.725-07:00Daily Video: 29.06.2010 – The Bystander EffectToday's video is a news story about a man who acted in good faith to help a woman being mugged, only to be stabbed and have no one come to his aid as he bled to death. The Bystander Effect is something that is addressed in a variety of Progressive Defence courses and this is a classic example of it. Look for future articles on the subject and how we can safeguard ourselves against it.<br/><br/><object height="350" width="425"><br/> <param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/tGaJrgi_SpE&feature=player_embedded"><br/> <param name="wmode" value="transparent"><br/> <embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/tGaJrgi_SpE&feature=player_embedded;rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" height="350" width="425"><br/> </object>Joe Saundershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01302606552437923780noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4957009640845838699.post-40735221688942066012010-06-28T04:29:00.000-07:002011-03-25T01:41:08.727-07:00Daily Video: 28.06.2010Today's video is one of the original promotional clips for the ISR Matrix Defensive Tactics system that forms a large part of our Security and Law Enforcement defensive tactics courses. A number of the techniques displayed in this video (ie, stomping, striking) are not strictly taught in the law enforcement package anymore, but are reserved for civilian self defence and military combatives. That said, this is a great demonstration of what we mean when we say "Training with intensity!"<br/><br/><object height="350" width="425"><br/> <param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/2BpEzI7mleY&feature=related"><br/> <param name="wmode" value="transparent"><br/> <embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/2BpEzI7mleY&feature=related;rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" height="350" width="425"><br/> </object>Joe Saundershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01302606552437923780noreply@blogger.com0