Time and Distance Two Part Course

Time and Distance in Close Protection is nothing new, it's just never really been given a specific name until Gavin de Becker highlighted its importance in training in his book “Just 2 Seconds”.

Only a handful of training providers include their own versions of the Time and Distance concept in their training while most simply adhere to the SIA’s Level 3 Close Protection Training syllabus, which offers minimal instruction on providing body cover.

History has proven that close protection operatives require a far deeper understanding of the importance of Time and Distance.

Our course was initially developed in the 1990s by IPC’s Chief Instructor, Jon Pastonak, with a focus on providing personal protection for celebrities. Since then, we have incorporated Gavin de Becker’s Time and Distance (TAD) concept to enhance its effectiveness alongside research on response and reaction from Force Science and other subject matter experts.

This course also highlights the necessity of possessing an advanced level of expertise in the following skills..

Threat and Risk Assessments, Situation Awareness, Behavioural Detection, Conflict Management, Physical Intervention and Defensive Skills

Part 1 Theory and Self-Study - The theoretical and self-study portion of the course must be completed before progressing to Part 2.

Subjects: The Basics of Time and Distance, The Attack Cycle, The Concept of Time in Threat Response, The Concept of Distance, Threat Identification / Indicators, Threat Perception, Creating Buffer Zones, Reaction and Decision-Making, Human Performance in High-Stress Situations, Reaction Time, Fear vs Reaction, Effective Protection, Planning for Personal Appearances, Case Studies, Health and Fitness, Law

Assessment: Assessment pack to be completed

Part 2 Practical - A highly physical day dedicated to applying theoretical concepts through practical scenario-based training, including multiple exercises to test and reinforce the Time and Distance concept.

Testing Time and Distance - Time over Distance to a Threat, Reaction Times

Meet and Greets - Book Signings, MP Surgeries

Live Appearances - On Stage and Public Addressing

Crowds and Media - Red Carpet Events, Arriving / Departing Venues Blocking Paparazzi, Barriers

Physical Intervention - Escalating / De-escalating Techniques

Defensive and Evacuation Techniques - From the moment of commitment through to an attacker having nothing left to lose.

Assessment: Practical Assessment