One of the most distinguishing features of RBT is the way it deals with conflict resolution. This is broken down into three separate phases. That is, the pre-conflict phase, the conflict phase and the post-conflict phase.
The Pre-Conflict Phase in Reality-Based Defense
The pre-conflict phase can be the most important part of an event. It’s where 90% of the engagement can be avoided altogether; that is, with proper awareness, avoidance, correct demeanor and appropriate verbal skills. This subject matter is not even approached in most traditional schools.
The Conflict Phase in Reality-Based Defense
The next phase is the conflict-phase, which is the actual fight. The reality-based approach emphasizes the preemptive strike, gross motor movements and attacking with the highest force-level appropriate. Reality-based training focuses on what actually happens on the street; surprise attacks, ambushes, weapons and multiple attackers.
The Conflict Phase often Includes Weapons
For some unfathomable reason most martial arts and sport fight practitioners do not carry a weapon. Furthermore they falsely assume that they can defend themselves from a weapons attack unarmed? People who can do that are few and far between. It must be the influence of kung fu movies, because that’s a construct built on a delusion.
Reality-based training acknowledges the fact that the world has become a far more dangerous place. Most assaults are initiated with weapons, either knives, guns or impact weapons. Not only is counter-weapon training taught, but the proper use of these weapons is also covered.
The Post-Conflict Phase in Reality-Based Defense
The last stage of conflict resolution is the post-conflict phase and this is where topics such as first-aid, self-triage going to a medical clinic. To wait or not to wait for the police, what to say to the police when they arrive, how to handle your legal defense in court etc.