Over the years I've seen a trend in both tactics and the delivery of training—in that both have become increasingly complicated. I've watched demonstrations of techniques that take five, ten or even fifteen minutes just to explain. If it takes that long just to show it, will it be recalled under stress? After that complex of a demonstration, you may not even remember the drill you're supposed to do in class.
Albert Einstein was quoted as saying, "If you can't explain it simply, you don't understand it well enough." I'd say that applies directly to the training community. When the heart rate climbs, and the decision making distance and time compress, your ability to process information diminishes. You don't have time for ten steps. You don't have time for fine detail. You execute what is simple, repeatable, and trained.
Simplicity + fundamentals + repetition = mastery
I was first introduced to a concept called "chunking" during my first ASP Instructor Certification course. This principle dictates that there should be no more than three steps in the progression of any given technique set. This short, clear and simple instructional methodology makes it very easy to recall the techniques under stress.
In boxing, the amateur and the professional throw the same punches. Straight punches, hooks and uppercuts. The difference is not complexity, it's mastery. The jab doesn't change and the cross doesn't evolve into something new. These punches just get sharper, faster, and more efficient. In shooting, when things fall apart, the shooter doesn't struggle for a more complex solution, he returns to fundamentals. Golf? Same swing. Running? Same stride. The professional doesn't reinvent movement, he refines it. The same goes for baton strikes, OC deployment and other law enforcement skills and tactics.
If we can't teach it simply, we can't expect it to be applied effectively
As "consumers" of training, we have all had to watch or listen to long explanations, overbuilt techniques and unnecessary steps. Rather than making it better, complexity makes training forgettable. As trainers, our goal isn't to impress a classroom (at least that shouldn't be our goal). Our goal is to prepare officers to perform successfully and safely on the street. Clear and concise fundamentals. Repeatable actions. Then add pressure—such as a Red Man charging and swinging haymakers—but not complexity.
I was at an introductory steel shoot where there were six targets at varying heights, some near the ground. The course required lateral movement, shooting, reloading then moving in the opposite direction and finishing back in the starting box. As I walked through the stage trying to come up with a plan, an old-timer looked at me and said, "Kid, you look puzzled." I told him I'd never done anything like this and was just trying to figure out what I'm going to do. He said, "It's not complicated; just pull the trigger and move your feet." And he was right. Two simple actions. That's all it took.
So next time you're prepping to teach a class, ask yourself: Can this be simpler? Can it be taught more efficiently? Are we overcomplicating it? If the answers are "yes," find a way to eliminate complexity, and remember that simplicity always wins.
Chicago Police Department (Ret.)
ASP Trainer since 2011
Favorite ASP Tools: