Creating the reactionary gap (offensively)

Author: Odhinn Kohout

When you have been trapped in a restrictive environment or pinned against a wall by a person intent on doing you harm or worse it is essential to create some space between yourself and the badguy. But what if that space is only available moving forward?...

Much is said about ensuring a reactionary gap but in point of fact it is not as easy as simply stepping back to gain some valuable real estate for transitioning purposes. The picture illustrates two of our Military students during our last class practicing footwork in relation to takedowns and throws to move forward rather than take a defensive posture.

  

 

Inside & outside throws, sweeps, takedowns etc. using the legs and hips are essential in my opinion to integrating realistic CQC concepts which can used by your Officers in the field while wearing equipment and carrying firearms (carbine, pistol). The legs are a great asset to the Officer in helping to create the reactionary gap and can be combined with hand-fighting (clinch work) to produce a well-rounded defensive tactics program.

I have seen too many programs which focus on the Officer using an out stretched arm (dangerous move) to push the Assailant back while at the same time he taking several steps backwards.

What if there is no backwards?...uneven surfaces including elevations (stairs), debris, walls, oncoming traffic all impact this type of training. From the autonomic flinch the student must also have the prerequisite skills to traverse THROUGH the criminal as the shortest path may lie moving forward rather than the common defensive mindset of always stepping back.

Teaching the use of footwork incorporates balance and complex motor skills resulting in a varying learning curve so be patient when introducing it as a new topic. Stay away from the dramatic type of throws which require additional dexterity and high levels of coordination because many of your students will not see the buy-in due to their own physical limitations. Effective use of the feet and legs for throws and takedowns should not require flexibility on the part of your Officers. Create a program that is easy to learn and explain HOW each of the techniques work. Memorizing a bunch of “moves” is not conducive to Military and Police CQC. A cognitive understanding of the mechanics underpinning leverages and triangles of balance will in able your students to take your curriculum from the classroom to the street.

As always Guys, be safe!