Statistical analysis and crime reports have established that a significant proportion of violent encounters transpire in close proximity to or within the confines of vehicles. Such incidents encompass a spectrum of criminal activities including, but not limited to, carjackings—where an assailant may forcefully take control of a vehicle—and abductions, which may target individuals entering or exiting their cars. Robberies can catch individuals off-guard while they are near their vehicle, and assaults can happen when a person is isolated in a parking space, in transit, or simply standing by their car. Parking lots are often hotspots for these types of confrontations due to their transitional nature and the opportunities they provide for criminals to exploit distracted individuals as they move to and from their vehicles. The risk is heightened by the inherent distractions during entry and exit from vehicles, making people more vulnerable to surprise attacks. Understanding the dynamics of such encounters is crucial for developing effective preventive and responsive strategies.
In the modern automotive landscape, vehicles are increasingly equipped with advanced safety features intended to protect occupants in the event of an accident. However, these same features can inadvertently complicate self-defense scenarios. For example, systems designed to automatically lock doors or disable the engine in response to a collision or specific triggers can prevent a quick escape, often referred to as “getting off the X” in self-defense parlance, where the X marks a dangerous or vulnerable position.
Imagine you’re in a situation where an immediate departure in your vehicle is critical to evade a threat. Still, the vehicle’s automated systems lock you in or cut engine power, leaving you stranded. In such cases, what’s meant to be a protective measure transforms into a liability, potentially trapping you in an enclosed space with an assailant.
These scenarios necessitate a deeper understanding of your vehicle’s safety systems and how they might react in various situations. It’s important to recognize that while these features generally serve to safeguard passengers, they can, under specific circumstances, hinder your ability to use the vehicle as a means of escape.
Furthermore, it’s essential to be prepared for instances when driving away isn’t an option. This means developing the physical skills and tactical knowledge to handle threats without the ability to flee. It involves training to react effectively if you find yourself needing to confront a threat after an unexpected immobilization of your vehicle due to its built-in safety protocols. As our reliance on technology increases, so does the need for comprehensive self-defense strategies, considering the potential limitations imposed by well-intentioned safety features.
Due to these risks, law enforcement and security professionals often stress the importance of vigilance in and around vehicles. It is also a focus area in many self-defense and situational awareness training programs, so programs like C-Tac and others include defensive tactics specific to vehicular environments.
Combat scenarios involving vehicles present unique challenges rarely addressed in traditional martial arts and defense training. Upon closely examining vehicle-based combat, it’s evident that fundamental techniques must be adapted to this distinct setting. Vehicles create what I refer to as a compromised combat environment or “Out Of Position” fighting environment. Predatory individuals recognize the tactical advantage this offers them, as it puts their target in an unfamiliar and disadvantaged position, which they can exploit during an attack.
Naturally, we offer specialized training for such situations through our Vehicle Centric Defensive Tactics (VCDT) program, which hones in on defensive strategies specific to vehicular contexts. VCDT draws its core principles from a combat approach I’ve developed known as Dog Boxing. This method concentrates on mastering self-defense in compromised combat situations, teaching individuals how to defend themselves when caught “out of position effectively.”
Envision immersing yourself in an array of unconventional and confined environments such as vehicles, behind desks, surrounded by chairs, against walls, tucked in corners, within the narrow confines of elevators, and the elongated paths of hallways. In each of these settings, you’re tasked with mastering the mechanics necessary to unleash potent force in every direction, a full 360 degrees. No matter how constricted or awkward your stance, you learn to adapt and respond with precision and power. This adaptability to combat effectively from any angle, regardless of physical positioning, is a cornerstone of Dog Boxing. It is about transforming vulnerability into strategic advantage, ensuring that in any scenario—be it cramped, cluttered, or otherwise restrictive—you are equipped with the skills to control the space and defend yourself with decisive, powerful action.
A pivotal aspect of our methodology is the in-depth analysis of facing multiple adversaries. I often emphasize to my students that you should never assume there’s just a single opponent; there’s always a potential second lurking. It’s crucial to always be on the lookout for the ‘ghost’ in the scenario, as this practice significantly heightens situational awareness. Should there be additional threats, our methodology evaluates the available options to navigate and survive the encounter effectively.
Vehicle Centric Defensive Tactics is a program that has been a part of our curriculum for some time now, providing specialized skills for self-defense in and around vehicles. However, I am excited to announce that we are broadening our scope to include the comprehensive Dog Boxing methodology. This expansion isn’t just an addition; it’s a holistic integration of a fighting style that emphasizes adaptability and practicality in close-quarters combat.
As we move forward, we’re not just touching upon the surface of Dog Boxing – we are diving deep. In the upcoming year, we plan to roll out an extensive series of training sessions dedicated to this approach. These sessions are designed to explore the depths of Dog Boxing, covering its unique strategies, techniques, and applications in various self-defense scenarios.
This is a proactive step towards equipping our students with a broader, more versatile combat skill set. We’re committed to providing you with the most comprehensive training possible, and by incorporating Dog Boxing into our program offerings, we’re ensuring that you have access to a wide variety of defensive tactics that are as effective as they are dynamic. Keep an eye out for more detailed announcements on training schedules and session content in the near future.
Alan Baker specializes in designing customized Defensive Tactics Programs tailored to the specific needs of law enforcement agencies, security firms, and military organizations. With a focus on practical techniques, scenario-based training, and adaptability to real-world situations, Alan can develop comprehensive training
programs that enhance the skills and preparedness of personnel. If you are interested in connecting with Alan or booking his services, please visit our website at https://bakertacticaldesign.com or reach out to him directly through LinkedIn.