Strength & Conditioning

Functional Combative Conditioning

Our approach to conditioning is unique in that most exercises are designed to simultaneously train the body and the psyche. From a combatives perspective – training only the body is inadequate. Progressive training of the psyche must be an integral part of any true combatives program.

It is a well-known fact that the majority of those who survive deadly encounters – trained or untrained – typically do so because of their ability to operate as calmly as possible under high-stress conditions. Obviously, trained individuals should have a higher stress capacity – but if, and only if, their training incorporates the proper tools and skills.

This type of training is challenging, but well worth the investment in time, effort and pain. This type of training also teaches us a great deal about who we really are, which allows us to grow. The amazing side effects of combining mind-body training in this manner are a huge increase in overall health and the building of a strong spirit.

The physical tools that are used in this type of training include, but are not limited to:

• Unique Systema bodyweight exercises
• Kettlebells
• Medicine balls
• Staff/Sticks

This integrated conditioning program draws from several authoritative sources, including:

• Systema breathwork and conditioning drills
• Martin Wheeler’s conditioning programs
• The Hard Style approach to kettlebell training
• Numerous other modalities of kettlebell training
• Progressive Calisthenics concepts
• Chinese internal martial arts

The Body

There are several primary goals in the physical training domain:

• Strength endurance
• Tendon strength
• Movement:
  • Proper functional movement/structure
  • Mobility
  • Freedom of movement

The Psyche

A great deal of material exists on the “fight-or-flight” or sympathetic nervous system (SNS) response to stress. The military and law enforcement communities have expanded to include color zones and physical indicators. This is good knowledge to have. However, you need to understand how it manifests within you and what your default, unique reaction/response mechanism is. Then you can begin to build skills and tools to compensate. Book knowledge of the subject is useless without application.

• Understand the fight-or-flight process – within your own body.
• Develop stress recognition and awareness tools
• Develop compensation skills

For clarity’s sake, this aspect of training is not a hazing-style, free for all. It is progressive, structured and designed to allow each individual to grow in a safe, but realistic set of environment variables.

The Connection

My Executive Protection instructor Joe Bannon puts it perfectly: