Modern Combative Systems (MCS) is based on the belief that self defense training needs to be based on defending against the ways you are most likely going to be attacked and counter attacking in such a way that makes it hard for your attacker to defend.

Most spontaneous attacks whether they are with an open hand, stick knife or gun will require you to respond initially with your open hands. That is the cold hard truth. At best you will have a pen or flashlight in your hand. But that is OK, because in MCS we believe that there are only two types of weapons when you get down to it. Edged and impact. And since a pen or flashlight does not have an edge you strike with it.

The first part of MCS is recognizing pre assault indicators and preparatory movement that is required for someone to attack you. The second part is teaching you to defend against the mechanism of the attack instead of the attack it self. Whether it is a roundhouse punch, a swing with a tire iron or a slash with a knife the angle is the same and so should the defense. This is achieved by an intense study of human anatomy, human response to stress and human patterns.

MCS is only concerned with interpersonal combat within seven yards since this is where most people are attacked, fall apart and die. In keeping with MCSs belief in training over toys the system is broken down into three skill sets that mirror both the likelihood of the attack and the mode of defense.

Only Level I of Skill Set III requires any previous training. Skill Set I & II only require that the student be able bodied. The minimum age requirement for MCS is 16 years of age with parental consent.

So to do all three levels of each skill set would take you five days. Of course it will take time to get to the point where we have people to do say a Level II or III for edged weapons but we will get there.

Most people with a good mindset would be very well served with Level I of each skill set. Level 1 is also conducted in such a way that if you can walk in the door you can train. Beyond Level I you better come ready and bring some Motrin.

It is recommended that students attend MCS with another dedicated person they can continue to train with upon completion of the course.

Courses are instructed around the country by George Matheis and other Close Quarter Combat Group instructors. CQCG is comprised of retired and active duty police and military personnel who leave ranks and attitudes at home.

Train like it is your last training day, because it might be.

2006 VA Beach Seminar