Lesson Five of the Self Defense Mini Clinic

Click here to see Lesson 4.

This lesson teaches you how to train and develop the skills and principles you’ve learned and will learn in the future from Fightfast.com.

But before we dive in, check out this triangle choke hold taught by decorated soldier and former Delta Force Operator Jim West.


Training Methods:

A complete review of proper training and conditioning methods for combat is beyond the scope of this book, however, I do want to point out that the average guy looking to defend himself on the street doesn’t need to endure a lifetime of training.

On the contrary, the entire purpose of my many DVD packages is to simplify everything. I’ve received emotional letters from dozens of customers who simply watched a certain program, did NO training, and were able to recall and use it correctly when they needed it. Doesn’t get much better than that. But if you’re serious about implanting this information deeply into your body, you’ll want to consider training it.

Street fighting does not require the same level or type of conditioning as sport fighting. Surprisingly, cardiovascular endurance isn’t a significant factor in a street fight. I know this is a controversial claim, but research and 20 years of study and observation backs it up.

Remember, true street fights (as opposed to mutually agreed combat) rarely last longer than 10 seconds. Understanding and employing the 4 D’s (Deception… Distraction… Disruption… Destruction), will trump cardiovascular conditioning.

So with that in mind, having the ability to initiate and maintain continuous explosive action for 8 to 10 seconds will give you a huge advantage in a fight. Design your training accordingly.

For street fighting focus your training on anaerobic conditioning (strength and power training). Eight to ten seconds may not seem very long, but try going all out on a heavy bag for that amount of time…it’s pretty tough.

The more realistic you train the better. This includes the emotional component as well. Here are some tips:

    • 1.) Practice initiating a pre-emptive attack and counter attack from multiple positions and stances. If you practice the 4 D’s you won’t be initiating the attack from a classic boxer’s stance. More than likely your hands will be up, open, and forward in an “I don’t want any trouble” submissive posture. This is the position you want to practice launching from.

self defense training focus mit

  • 2.) Practice maintaining a constant barrage. And if training with a partner, maintain constant forward pressure. Constant Barrage is more important than Strike Accuracy. Practice Target awareness. If working on a heavy bag, imagine different targets being made available, if working with a partner, make sure he or she offers you a variety of targets to attack.
  • 3.) Practice your verbiage as you initiate an attack as well as anything you might say during the attack. Make it as real as possible. If you are working with a training partner have your partner play the part; yelling, threatening, cursing, etc. His goal should be to drive up the emotional content as much as possible.
  • 4.) Develop a “Strike” mentality – Start hitting a heavy bag. A partner with “strike mitts” is even better, because it allows you to get used to movement. Practice striking with your hands, elbows, shoulders, head, and knees and mix up “Hi-Line” shots (at the head and chest) and “Lo-Line” shots (at the stomach, ribs, groin and legs).
  • 5.) Get a “Battle Cry” – As I just discussed, this does a couple things. First it throws off your adversary for a couple of crucial seconds at the beginning of your action sequence. His brain will be burning up valuable seconds trying to process what all the yelling is about (“what the hell…”) while your attack is under way. Very effective.The second function of the battle cry is to prompt your brain into action. There’s a big difference between thinking about taking action and actually taking action, and it’s easy for most people to get “locked down” in planning. Your brain needs a kick in the butt to transfer its energy from the thinking and planning mode into the action mode.

The battle cry is a verbal “go” that’s imperative to getting yourself moving forward. It’s nothing new, soldiers have been using this for thousands of years as a way to overcome freezing and to strike fear in their enemies. But you’ll want to use this verbal battle cry in training ONLY when you launch into an attack so that it holds power and is an “internal trigger.”

The next training principle is proper execution. Few moves require better execution than weapon disarms. In the following video, you’ll learn the correct technique to disarm an attacker with a gun. A situation we all hope to god we never find ourselves in, but one where the right technique is the difference between life and death.


  • 6.) Always practice proper execution: Watching countless videos of actual street fights as they happened has only cemented what my research has already strongly suggested that real-world fighting is sloppy. It is the rare exception for a fighter to properly execute a complex martial arts move.This is why it’s important to practice proper execution as you’ll be more likely to retain a percentage of it when “crunch time” hits. As expert shooter Bennie Cooley points out, if you can group your shots with 3 inches of each other during practice, you may just retain a grouping the size of a paper plate in real combat (which is considered excellent shooting in the real world). Or as Bruce Lee once pointed out: “I do not fear the man who has practice 1000 kicks one time… I fear the man who has practiced one kick 1000 times.”But Bruce was a little off in his numbers. Studies show that it takes about 2,000 repetitions of a move before it’s actually “implanted” into your brain’s neural pathway for easy recall even under stress. Now 2,000 sounds like a big number, but it’s not. The key is to practice a move correctly.Here is a proven method for developing your skills.Level 1:
    1. Practice a move in front of a mirror slowly. This allows you to “self correct” anything you’re doing wrong. Keep practicing until you are satisfied that your technique is correct.
    2. Practice the same move in front of mirror at full speed. Again… this allows you the opportunity to self correct.
    3. Try it again… this time in slow motion with your eyes closed. You’ll want to periodically sneak a peek in the mirror to see if you’re still on track with your technique.
    4. When your satisfied with your technique, perform it at full motion with your eyes closed. This will start hardwiring the move into your muscle memory.

    Self Defense Training Heavy BagLevel 2: Get your hands on a heavy bag… they’re not expensive and the exercise value alone that you’ll receive it is worth every penny.

    1. Now practice the same move on heavy bag – slowly. Use a mirror again if you can to periodically check your technique. If you see that it’s flawed, go back to Level 1.
    2. Practice the technique on heavy bag at full speed. Try to visualize how you’d use the move on specific target areas.

    Level 3: Practice with a partner. Now I realize not all of us have someone willing to act as your punching bag, but for those who are committed to taking their skills to an expert level, having a live person to practice on is important. For any specific move you want to:

    1. Practice with partner slowly… then when you’re both comfortable….
    2. Practice with partner at full speed.

Of course this is only a brief description of how to train. The DVDs will take you through specific moves and techniques in detail. But it’s important to remember to always be careful with your partner, especially if you’re just getting started. Make sure your partner understands how to “tap-tap-tap” on your side whenever they feel uncomfortable.

Most of the moves you’ll discover are ones that can be used “straight out of the box.” They’re almost always simple, easy to learn, and devastating, so you must use care during any practice. Avoid “showing off” your new moves to unsuspecting friends or family members as it’s easy to put them in the hospital or permanently injure (even kill) them.

That’s it for the free Self Defense Mini Clinic, but don’t worry I’ll still be in touch. I’ll be sending you chapters of the full length fight guide (this Self Defense Mini Clinic was a condensed version) and video tips from my blog every week. So keep your eyes peeled for more free fighting instruction.

Interested in learning brutal self defense right away?
As a graduate of my 5 Day Course I’ve Arranged A One-Time Killer Deal For You!

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543 thoughts on “Lesson Five of the Self Defense Mini Clinic”

  1. Good stuff men! I am practicing with my son for this kinda encounter. We are ready believe me.

  2. Awesome, the world IS getting real out there and as one person mentioned you cannot always carry a pistol. Really appreciate all the work you folks have put into these videos. Will stay hooked up to them. Take Care and THANK YOU.

  3. I am a 73 year old man,a former member of the USAF, ten years of service as a member of the Air Commandos. I was taught and used in combat an effective form of hand to hand. However, given my age and some physical problems I am not sure that I can protect myself, let alone my seventy year old wife. Perhaps your system can bring me that peace of mind that has been eroded by the current spurt of home invasions that have recently been occurring in our home area. Not to long ago an older couples home was invaded, they were robbed, had their property destroyed and were brutally beaten. I cannot allow this to happen to my wife. We are ourselves on Soc. Sec. and small monthly retirement checks. We have very little, yet we have each other. It is my intention to protect that most important aspect of our lives.

  4. This is a real eye opener on how real you have to be not only survive; but to win over a potential killer! This is a great course and everyone who needs to be comfortable with a continuing harsh world should take these videos to heart!!! Bravo my service brothers and Thank You for your service to this country and to our world!!!! ☆☆☆☆☆ 🙂

  5. Thank you for sharing these great life saving techniques. In considering Fighting Myth #3, I would love to see some instruction on how to deal with 2-3 attackers and the strategy with taking them all down. THANKS!

  6. These moves draw to the awareness or anticipation of you the fighter to read your opponent, assessing his vulnerabilty. Good strong, effective moves, if practiced correctly.

  7. It is good to have such skills explained and why….I like the thought of learn two or so skills well and practice until they are second nature….and to throw the attacker off their guard right at first and get right in there hammering until they are off balance and down etc. to effect a get away or knock out if possible with something if available.

    The only thing is how are you sure they are going to attack you and not just harass?
    You are saying if they reach out some way that you KNOW it is coming ….that split second that then moves ME into action!

    Appreciate the free help too as money is next to extinct in my world.

  8. I’ve been trained in various styles of Martial arts and self defense tactics over the last thirty years and I absolutely enjoy these videos. Although I am familiar with many of these techniques, I am still learning a great deal from your videos. Well done guys.

  9. I am over 65 y/o, I practice Tae Kwan Do only to stay in shape, this Technics will help a lot in case I needed, I am little slow now, but thanks to you, I have more confidence.

  10. Nice techniques sir, I am combact instructor with many years on the field and conversant with some tactics here in. Notwithstanding, I learnt new tricks and tactics and recommend your lesson video for everyone for self Defense. I will teach my new tactics from your video to my students with reference to you Sir. Thanks very much

  11. Thanks once more, I will love to have more of the tactics and techniques through my email, even the moral lectures on street fight in other to teach our loves once who might not be opportune to have one.

  12. I skimed through the videos. they seem great. I am a long haul truck driver. I marked them to study later. Im on the road.
    I had to wait to get on my laptop to watch and order the other items. thanks.

  13. I am very much enjoying being able to have a mindset of training,
    thanks very much.

    from South Africa

  14. All five lessons are good. Very simple moves. I’ve seen or used some of these in either martial arts training (taking away weapons) or even while playing football (slaps, grabs and take-downs).

  15. I have ordered multiple products since I began getting your e-mails, and what you offer is simplicity and survival. I am a mother of a young child. I have a lot to live for, and I WILL protect my family and myself. Thank you for these techniques and the knowledge.

  16. I have now watched all ten videos. My thoughts are that these are great responses to the scenarios shown, and will provide superior benefit once mastered through training to gain an instinctual response. Thank you for this opportunity. Being elderly and disabled, this will offer more options than a shootout as the only means of survival. Continue offering us the opportunity to live without utter fear.

  17. OK, OK, I have lost the ability to count at this stage. There were eleven videos, and all are superior. Keep up the good work, we all need all the help we can get (as long as accurate counting is not a requirement.)

  18. I’m 32, married, with a 13 year old daughter and wife expecting a boy come new years. I do not look to get into fights, but I also do not want to be unable to protect my family. The tutorials have opened my mind to what can really be expected if someone approached us on the street looking to cause us harm. Thank you for this knowledge.

  19. This miniclinic was very insightful. No less than I would expect from fight fast. Thank you very much. I’m in the situation that I don’t have very much extra financial resources to pull from, so the free mini Clinic really help. Again thank you very much.

  20. By taking all that you have shown and being willing to practice and more practice I feel that I can at least hold my own in a fight and if not win at least get the hell away thanks again

  21. Ty for sharing your skills.i understand &him training this is the best videos&stupa that work ever! Ty I am by myself a lot my husband is disabled I work 10hr days these are things I need if need be!ty for your help keep up the fight!

  22. Some great moves , I have studied Karate for meany years and now I’m in my 50s I can feel I need to Chang things up a bet to more direct moves and less flash, that you tend to learn in a class invirment . I like what I see here , not fancy moves But very affective in the street. I will be a long time follower of yours for now on. Keep up the good work . There’s a lot of old karate men and woman out there that want to keep sharp and work on the simple / effective work outs., keep it coming . Good job ( I like its for the every day Jo and easy to follow ) Thanks Kent Gray 2nd Dan Shotokan

  23. I simply wanted to appreciate you yet again. I am not sure the things I might have used in the absence of the type of tricks discussed by you on that subject matter. It absolutely was a real frustrating setting in my view, but taking note of your professional form you managed the issue forced me to cry with joy. Now i am grateful for the guidance and hope that you comprehend what a great job you have been accomplishing instructing people with the aid of your webpage. Probably you have never encountered any of us.

  24. I have watched all of the lessons that you have sent to my email address. You can’t know how much these videos mean to me. I am a strong 62 year old, but I know that I will not always be strong. I grew up in the ghetto and some of what you showed me, I already knew about. Others are totally new. Most times I was picked on because being a girl. Other times I was picked on for being quiet and shy. I have never started a fight, but I have finished a few. The techniques you showed should carry me safely into the rest of my years. Sad to say, but the whole world has become a ghetto. No one is safe, everyone is a potential target for someone looking to harm, often for the fun of it. I have never seen the world in so much distress. I thank God for you and your videos. I live alone and, though I live in a gated community, there is always a way in if the perpetrators want to get in. Police will arrive at some point, but, until then, people have to be able to defend themselves and their families. Thank you again.

  25. Thank you very much, these tips and move.. all the advice is really good!! ive been doing a little bit of BJJ, just started with stand-up, still feels very dodgy standing there.. but on the self defence side, this advice is great! Thank You!

  26. Thanks for your training.Im 60 yrs old and am starting to realise I no longer can defend myself due to broken but repaired neck.cant take any chances any more.

  27. Great info, instruction, & variety of walks of life for the instructors which you pick! It gives a nice representation of what a street fight really IS all about. I grew up in the 80’s, in L.A. County, & would walk & ride my bike fearlessly for miles, through several… MANY… different gang sets/clicks (they never sucked me in, but I did gain the respect &/or protection from all the ones in the major areas I hung out in… they liked me). There’s a lot to be said about mentality, awareness, wit, & quick thinking on the streets. But, when all that fails you… better know how to fight for your life, & win. Great techniques. Many which I will add to what I learned as a kid, & practice. I’ve always told people that I laugh at those who brag about kicking someone’s ass in a street fight with their martial art/professional skills…. Rule# 1 of street fighting – there are NO rules. Rule# 2 of street fighting – fight as if your life depends on it, because it does. Rule #3 – Refer back to rules #1 & #2.
    And thank you very much for providing it for free. I have limited resources which I must allocate wisely. I greatly appreciate your doing this. It’s an awesome thing that you’re doing. Thank you.

  28. Thank you for the videos. I am 69 and will practice all but especially the no 5 and the arm around the neck which I think will require a quick burst of strength. I am quite strong for my age which might have a surprise effect but of course I could not sustain the power too long as you can expect:)
    Thanks again I really do appreciate your gesture.
    Merci mille fois.

    Michele
    Canada

  29. Grast stuff. Only problem is finding a training partner. The part on distraction is critical. My uncle was a cop and claimed spitting in a bad guys face before taking a him down never failed him in over 25 years. Distraction, closing and hitting targets – great reminders. Thanks

  30. I’m getting older ( 68 ) and some tricks would really help in today’s world. You have to be smarter to handle a situation and have the advantage over the younger and stronger aggressor. Thanks.

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