$125per student
Open
RegisterSDS Level 1
Six hours of foundational personal security training: awareness, avoidance, communication, preparation and an introduction to physical response.
- Length
- 6 hours
- Format
- 3 × 2 hours, or one 6.5-hour day
- Tuition
- $125
- Prerequisite
- None
About SDS Level 1
Level 1 is where everyone starts. It covers critical skills in situational awareness, avoidance strategies, effective communication and physical response, from noticing that something is off to knowing what to do if avoidance and communication are no longer enough.
Participants experience realistic encounters as they develop the critical tools of personal protection. Classes are intentionally kept small, with a laid-back yet respectful atmosphere.
After Level 1, graduates can continue to SDS Level 2 for more practical physical-response training.
Why six hours
“I know from my 40-plus years in the martial arts and my training in law enforcement tactics that it takes real time to teach people correct techniques and concepts. That's why SDS Level 1 is taught either as three two-hour sessions or in one 6.5-hour day. Even that is not close to what it really takes, but I know I can give people a good start with it. Anything less and they are just wasting their time and investment, and I can't do that.”
What it covers
- Situational awareness
- Avoidance strategies
- Effective communication
- The criminal mind
- How to train the mind
- Mental and physical preparation
- Personal protection and the law
- Introductory physical-response techniques
- Realistic encounters and scenarios
How it is taught
Lecture, discussion, demonstration and physical practice.
Questions about SDS Level 1
Who can take a Strata class?
Classes are designed for adults and teens 16 and older. No martial arts, law-enforcement or security background is needed.
How big are the classes?
Class sizes are intentionally kept small, with a laid-back yet respectful atmosphere, so everyone gets attention from the instructor.
Do I need to be in shape to take Level 1?
No particular fitness level is required for Level 1, which covers awareness, avoidance, communication and physical-response techniques. Level 2 focuses on practical self-defense: if you enjoy a workout and getting physical, it is for you.
How long is each class?
SDS Level 1 is taught either as 3 sessions of 2 hours on different days, or as one 6.5-hour day. SDS Level 2 is 3 sessions of 2 hours. Each class listing shows its own dates and times.
Why is each course this long?
Because correct techniques and concepts cannot be taught in an hour or two. Vince's 40-plus years in the martial arts and his training in law enforcement tactics taught him that it takes real time, which is why Level 1 is taught either as three two-hour sessions or in one 6.5-hour day. That is not everything it takes, but it gives people a real start. Anything shorter would waste their time and money.
How much does a class cost?
SDS Level 1 is $125 per student and SDS Level 2 is $125 per student. The price for each class is shown on its listing.
What if I have an injury or a medical condition?
List any relevant physical limitations on the registration form so the instructor knows in advance. If you are unsure whether the physical work is right for you, check with your doctor first.
Is this a martial arts class?
No. The instructor has more than 40 years of martial arts experience, but Strata is personal security training. Physical response is one layer of a larger approach that starts with awareness and avoidance, and it is broader than fighting: it includes walking or running away, moving to a more strategic location and using body language to control the situation, as well as practical techniques.
Does the class cover the law?
Level 1 includes a section on personal protection and the law. It is general education for students, not legal advice for a specific situation.
