Tactical Training and why it Sucks (or sucked)

Let's talk about Motor Training, and the concept of "we've always done it that way".  I've been a Police Motor Instructor like forever. I've learned from the best, including the late great Harry Walters from IPTM!  I've watched the class evolve from a one-week course to a two-week course and beyond. The mentality at one time was complete five days of cones, then hit the road and hope you don't get hurt!  Now many of us put on an extensive FTO Programs with experienced trainers after the 2-3 week class!

During that time the Firearms portion has evolved as well.  It went from non-existent, to a half day at the range shooting from various positions of cover from the motor, to maybe a full day or more devoted to tactics and various traffic stop scenarios with Simunitions. 

One tactic that we stuck with for far too long was the concept of firefights fought from the ground.  We instilled in our motor officers how to use the bike as cover, and on a traffic stop that's going sideways, your best bet is to lay down behind your motor!  EVEN AS A STUDENT THAT FELT WRONG.  But I continued to teach that.  We all did.  Fast forward decades of motor training that included many high-speed tactical folks coming through (SWAT officers).  We talked it out.  We hugged.  We ditched the "let's get you used to staying horizontal for eternity" method of fighting.   In short, we found better ways to do business in a business that doesn't forgive stupidity or ignorance. 

If you are in charge of your training, take a hard look at the way you do things.  Can it be better? Make it better.

Ride safe and never take training for granted!

Joe