Reality Based Self Defence

I have recently had the good fortune to do some cross training, which included some reality based self defence. A real eye opener and a great suppliment to my training and teaching.

DART - Defence Attack Resolution Tactics is run by John Titchen, a very talented and extremely knowledgeable instructor based in High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire.

The aim of John's teaching is to avoid, deter, negate, survive and escape violence. DART evolved from applying research in the following subject areas to effective martial arts techniques and training: Sports Science, Psychology,Violent Crime Statistics and the Law.

Here I can be seen in a scenario where I am minding my own business at a bar, when I am approached by someone who accuses me of spilling his drink. 

Here is an interesting scenario, again set at a bar.No-one other than the attacker knows who is going to start the fight, so no-one can target a particular individual until it all kicks off.
I am leaning against the wall in the white gloves. Look how after I shake the attackers hand I mentally switch off thinking the fight is over. 
This is where this type of reality training really increases your awareness and understanding of real combat/street fights. 

Here is a picture from another session with John Titchen. 

Note the use of specialist training and protective equipment, which inludes padded shorts, leg and shin guards, Spartan body protectors and headguards.
I am standing far right in this picture.






Also covered during this session was groundwork. Escaping from full mount, half mount and side mount.

I would recommend some reality based training to anyone who is interested in self defence. It is easy to think your own martial training covers self defence, but unless you have trained full contact and realy been taken outside of your comfort zone I would question that. 
Anyone interested in some reality based self defence, seminars, blade awareness, lone worker safety or other related topics should contact either myself my e-mail, or contact John Titchen at jwt.dart@gmail.com

Types of courses run by DART can be found here