Combative Zones & Speed & Power Recap | The John Hallett Podcast #86

Welcome to the John Hallett Podcast

Hey everybody, welcome back to the John Hallett Podcast! Today we're diving deep into combative zones and action zones — the various distances and decision points you face in a real-life self-defense situation. These are critical concepts for anyone serious about their personal protection, especially those training in Krav Maga and other martial arts.

We want to thank our growing community of listeners. If you want to support the podcast and our mission, check out SuckLess.co, our online training portal ClearSky.Training, and of course, our in-person programs at Rocky Mountain Self Defense & Fitness.

Training the Mind and the Body

Self-defense isn’t just a mental game. It’s not enough to understand concepts — you have to train them physically. You have to push yourself, challenge your excuses, and build real-world skills through hard training.

That’s why I still do things like cold plunges. Not because I love it, but because it builds mental resilience. That mindset translates directly to self-defense. The world isn’t getting safer, and we all need to be ready to act, not just think.

Let’s Talk Zones

When we break down combative zones, we’re talking about the physical distance between you and a potential threat. Each zone requires different skills, awareness, and action. Here’s a breakdown:

Zone 4: Awareness (15–25 ft)

This is your first line of defense — the decision-making zone. Can you spot a threat before it becomes an attack? You have a few seconds (maybe less) to:

• Recognize threats
• Create distance
• Call 911
• Use command presence or verbal de-escalation

This zone is fluid. Someone athletic can close that gap in under 2 seconds. Train your awareness and threat recognition here.

Zone 3: Engagement Prep (10–15 ft)

Things are escalating. You may need to:

• Use tactical movement (create angles or barriers)
• Deploy a front kick to keep someone back
• Consider a weapon draw (only if truly justified)

Training the front kick is essential here. But if you mistime it, you’re vulnerable. Practice with movement. Don’t just hit pads.

Zone 2: Striking Range (5–10 ft)

This is where people freeze up. You’re now in a fight whether you like it or not.

• You must strike first if the threat is imminent
• Weapons like knives or guns may come out
• This is not the time to reach for pepper spray or a firearm unless you’ve created the space to safely do so

Zone 1: Clinch / Close-Quarters (0–5 ft)

Welcome to the worst-case scenario. You’re being grabbed, taken down, or attacked with deadly intent. Now it’s:

• Elbows, knees, headbutts (if trained)
• Weapon redirection and control
• Relentless attack until the threat is neutralized

Ladies: if someone is close enough to grab you, there is no half-measure. Be overwhelming in your response. Training breeds confidence and control in these critical moments.

Reality-Based Training: Citizen Defender Class

This is exactly what we do in our Citizen Defender class at RMSDF. You can’t just train on a flat range and expect to perform under stress. You need:

• Stress inoculation
• Scenario drills (Quantum Leap drills, for example)
• Close-quarters decision-making

We train everything from pre-fight indicators to 911 protocol and what to say after a defensive incident. These are the real-life details that make the difference.

Don’t Wait. Train Now.

Every day you delay is another day you remain unprepared. Our Clear Sky Training Portal lets you train from anywhere. And if you’re local to Castle Rock, come train in person. You don’t need to be fit. You just need to start.

And for new listeners: we're offering one month free to get started. No excuses. No delays.

Visit RMSDF.com and ClearSky.Training to start your journey. We promise, you can do this. You just have to show up.

Up Next on the Podcast Stay tuned for future episodes on:

• Time Hierarchy in Training
• 5 Elements of Self-Defense Law
• Degrees of Assault
• The Truth About Martial Arts Failure Rates
• What to Do After a Self-Defense Incident

Train smart. Train often. And always remember: suck less every day.

https://youtu.be/FLajh83fqkA