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Is Taiho-Jutsu Enough for S.W.A.T.?
In past articles, I've discussed the effectiveness of the taiho-jutsu course for uniformed police officers, correction officers, government and private detectives and investigators, security personnel, and parole and probation officers. In the opinion of this writer, there is nothing more effective to protect oneself in law enforcement in any of its branches. One area of law enforcement which has not been explored in this context is S.W.A.T (representing any tactical force, regardless of name).

It is assumed the readership knows the responsibilities of S.W.A.T. There seems to be no question that the weapons training they receive goes beyond that which the average officer receives. However, the question here is whether the taiho-jutsu course provides adequate training in unarmed self-defense/arresting techniques for this specialized force?

As an example, if a S.W.A.T member feels sentry neutralization is called for, or if one lunges at an officer with a bayonet at the end of a rifle, or a spear, will the principles and techniques of the taiho-jutsu course ensure the safety of the officer, and enable him/her to subdue the attacker? For situations such as these, and many others of a similar nature, should additional techniques find their way into the course?

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Those of us who have been fortunate enough to have studied with those S.A.C. personnel who received their training at the Kodokan, the Certificate attesting to the training was signed by legendary instructors in many arts, taiho-jutsu included. However, the Certificate is one in Combative Measures. The Kodokan program was not limited to taiho-jutsu alone. There were techniques and defenses taught which really have no place in the taiho-jutsu course; they would be better suited for military police. Given the dangerous and often unique situations S.W.A.T officers often encounter, is taiho-jutsu enough?

The answer is a qualified "yes". When applied properly, the principles and practices of the taiho-jutsu course can effectively protect an officer from any unarmed and most armed threats (excluding, of course, long-range firearm threats). For those unique situations where methods outside of the taiho-jutsu course may be called for, there are those found in the Combative Measures course. What is important to remember is that Combative Measures, as taught by the U.S.T.J.F., utilizes the same philosophy, principles, and movements that the basic taiho-jutsu course does. There may be additional techniques to learn, but they are absolutely consistent with the basic course.

Is the taiho-jutsu course enough for S.W.A.T? It would seem so. However, for those desiring to increase their armamentarium, Combative Measures would be excellent.

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