World of Martial Arts Podcasts

WHEN SH*T HITS THE FAN Military Martial Arts

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WHEN SH*T HITS THE FAN Military Martial Arts

Martial Arts Unveiled: The Realities of Conflict Management and Self-Defence

In the latest episode of our podcast, we delve into the intricate world of martial arts with a focus on conflict management and self-defence. Our guests, Chris Chandler and Michael from the PolArm Academy, bring a wealth of experience and knowledge, challenging conventional perceptions of martial arts training.

Founded in 2005, the PolArm Academy emerged from the necessity to address the unique challenges faced by British Transport Police on the London Underground. The absence of a reactionary gap due to noise and environmental constraints led to the development of a specialised training manual that emphasised legal and medical ramifications, a perspective often overlooked in traditional martial arts.

Chris Chandler, with his extensive background in police training, highlights the critical importance of understanding the legal consequences of self-defence actions. "The legal and medical ramifications are something that gets overlooked all the time," Chris explains. In real-world scenarios, excessive force can lead to legal troubles, making it imperative for martial artists to balance effective self-defence with lawful conduct.

The conversation takes an insightful turn as we explore behavioural detection, a skill honed by both Chris and Michael through rigorous training, including sessions at the FBI Academy. Understanding body language and pre-emptive indicators of aggression are crucial components of their curriculum. Chris elaborates, "Only 7% are words on communication skills. The rest is tone, pitch, aggression, and movement."

Mick Tully, our host, shares his own experiences with conflict management, drawing parallels with the teachings of renowned martial artists like Geoff Thompson. The discussion underscores the evolution of martial arts from a purely physical discipline to one that incorporates psychological and behavioural elements.

One of the standout moments of the episode is the emphasis on the mindset required for effective self-defence. Chris and Michael stress the importance of resilience and fitness, not just for seasoned martial artists but also for civilians. The PolArm Academy's approach includes "shock treatment" to simulate real-world stress and fatigue, preparing trainees for the unpredictability of actual confrontations.

The episode also touches on the challenges faced by modern law enforcement officers, who must navigate the complexities of public perception and legal scrutiny. The proliferation of mobile phones and social media means that every action is potentially recorded and analysed, adding another layer of pressure to conflict situations.

As the episode draws to a close, Mick reflects on the broader implications of martial arts training. It's not just about physical prowess but also about cultivating a mindset that can handle the ethical and psychological demands of self-defence. "If you want to be a badass, become a badass," Mick aptly summarises.

Whether you're a martial artist, a law enforcement officer, or simply someone interested in self-defence, this episode offers a comprehensive look at the realities of conflict management. Tune in to gain valuable insights and rethink what it means to train for real-world scenarios.

Interviewed by Mick Tully who is a JKD Instructor under Guro Dan Inosanto and Rick Faye. He runs MKG Coventry and is a BJJ black belt.

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