Tony Blauer / S.P.E.A.R.

[Josh]

There's a Blauer training seminar coming up in my area and I was wondering if anyone has comments about Tony and/or his system.  Is it worth the $150?   It's really hard to tell anything about his methodology from the flashy youtube videos.

[James McRae]

Tony's stuff is pretty cool, particularly if you are an LEO, security guard, or corrections officer.  Next to Burton's crash-cover (full side cover), the SPEAR is my favorite way to bridge the gap to the clinch, and there are some circumstances in which it is my first choice.  If you can afford the $150, you will probably get a lot out of the seminar.  I haven't had the chance to train with him in person, but I've watched a lot of his videos and I know many people who've had good experiences at his seminars. 

[Josh]

Thanks Jim.  All the talk of LEO application on bullshido put me off a little.  There seems to be a lot of weird stuff that runs around in LEO circles.

[James McRae]

No worries, Josh.  I want you to make an informed, rational decision (I am an ethicist, after all  ). 

I take Bullshido with a hefty grain of salt.  Most of the posts nowadays seem to be from BJJ two-stripe white belts who think they can denigrate other martial artists just because they haven't "proven" themselves at the local grappling tournament. 

I think the SPEAR system is really useful for dealing with a very specific aspect of hand-to-hand combat, namely the sucker-punch (or other surprise attacks) from the de-escalation stance.  I believe this is consistent with Tony's overall vision: the SPEAR is meant to complement existing martial arts systems, not be a system in itself.  I'm not an LEO, so I can't comment on its actual effectiveness for law-enforcement.

[Burton]

Hi Josh,
  I would highly recommend that you attend. You will learn a great deal from Tony. Please give him my best.

[Terry]

Actually just got back from a seminar tonight taught by Tony. His Be your own body gaurd course. It was great.

I didnt see any weared leo stuff, the course was focused on personal self defense. Just good self defense advise and training. I can see why Burton holds him in high regard.
 
He was very involved with everyone there, making sure they were understanding the material.

Also I have to say he was a funny guy, making everyone feel relaxed and at ease.

I would also recommend anyone taking advantage of him being in their area.