When training staff in the use of physical force it is important that the techniques provided enable staff to achieve the desired outcome, i.e., the physical control of an individual with minimal risk to all concerned or the successful defence of a person likely to be attacked. Therefore, it is fundamentally important that the physical skills taught to staff complement their ability to achieve the desired effect.

Physical use of force, like any other physical activity, requires the use of various physical motor skills. Motor skills can be defined as movements that are performed with a desired goal in mind. In sporting environments this may mean achieving such aims as holding a handstand in gymnastics. In physical restraint it means achieving the aim of staff being able to use a technique to physically control a violent person whilst reducing the harm to them and to others, and in self-defence it is the ability to defend oneself quickly and effectively..

The balance therefore in developing any system of self defence or physical restraint must be to make staff effective by the efficient use of skill and energy by designing skills and techniques that achieve their desired objective in real operational situations. Read the rest of this entry »