We have different client members at Masada Tactical, from the stay-at-home moms who want to get in shape to the tactical operators who want the most realistic life-saving skills they can get their hands on...and everything in between.
It is important to understand the goals of people and what drives them so we can provide what we are expected to provide. Our instructors are educators first, whether being self-protection experts or fitness specialists, who aim to assist each and every individual to meet his or her goals, overcome their fears, and achieve more than they ever thought possible.
There is one drawback to dealing with so many various populations: we can't satisfy all of them all of the time. Not all classes are suitable for everybody, and not all classes are aimed at accomplishing the same goals. I am stating that because I was recently asked by a few members about the reasoning behind certain classes. So after this long introduction, I want to break down the classes we offer and who are those intended for.
Color Coded Classes:
You see these on the schedule as "Yellow", "Orange", "Blue" and "Brown". These refer to a level within ICS. This is the core of our program and should be the staple of everybody's involvement with Masada Tactical. These classes are primarily self-defense oriented, with emphasis on real life application, and common scenarios. Classes include time spent on practicing skills, incorporating them into drills, and the theory that backs the practicality up.
An added benefit of these classes, and specifically the drills, is the fitness and conditioning component. Members may come to this class to learn life-saving skills, but there is no doubt they will get in better shape by participating in these.
Fitness and Conditioning:
We have three such classes: Cardio-Fight, Demolition, and Capoiera-Fit. These classes, although not skill-specific, allow members to increase stamina, strength, and overall performance to either become better fighters or just get in better shape. These classes are tough, but like all other classes, they are scalable and exercises can be modified or tailored to the individual's abilities and/or limitations.
Cardio-Fight: This class is mostly endurance oriented. Designed to be performed on a punching bag, the class offers high tempo striking combinations, a lot of core work, and other stamina and endurance building exercises. It is suitable to all members of all levels.
Demolition: This class is a strength oriented class. Although stamina and endurance are a by-product, the class concentrates on bodyweight exercises, Olympic lifts, and "strong man" type events. It is typically done in a circuit manner. The weights used can be adjusted to fit individual needs. This class is also suitable to all members wishing to get stronger.
Capoiera-Fit: A unique class developed and offered only at Masada Tactical. Based on moves from the Brazilian/African (origins trace to both) fighting system, the class emphasizes leg and core stamina and strength. Done to the beats of traditional drums and string instruments, this high energy class puts Zumba to shame! Although a group exercise class by design, this is not a class that men should shy away from. This class is challenging and sure to make you sore in areas you did not know existed.
Fight:
This class is tough. There are no two ways about it. If you want gentle classes, this one is NOT for you. This class takes skill taught in the regular self-defense classes and puts them into realistic applications, with emphasis on stress and aggression. Members hit...hard, fight on pavement, and are exposed to anything from pepper spray to simunition rounds. This is why it is for people Orange level and higher. A certain amount of control and safety is required. It is tough, painful, and bruising often occurs. But at the end of the day, this is what sets Masada Tactical apart.
Weapons:
We are not a Filipino stick and knife fighting school. What we are is a school that teaches how to use the tools that are available to us in a defensive manner. This class alternates between stick fighting and knife fighting every week. It is open to all levels.
Yoga:
Why we offer yoga? Because all these big, tough, macho men need it! offered twice a week (one 1-hour class and one for 30 minutes) it stretches and challenges muscles in manners that are different than anything else we do at Masada. You should all take these!
So...set your goals and pick the classes that best suit your specific needs, and whenever in doubt ask an instructor to lay down a plan for you. We are here to help you.
Stay safe,
Tzviel 'BK' Blankchtein
Masada Tactical, LLC
