At A+R Tactics, training is never one-dimensional. It’s about learning skills that complement and enhance each other, taking concepts from one discipline and applying them to real-world scenarios. That’s exactly what happened during one of Kenny Florian’s No-Gi classes—when the group decided to take their grappling skills into the shoot house for a full-circle training experience.

Not every unsettling situation presents an immediate threat. Often, you’ll find yourself in circumstances where someone’s behavior or an environment gives off a slight warning. This inner alarm isn’t there to alarm you unnecessarily—it’s a tool, honed through experience, to help you gauge when to stay and when to leave.

Birthdays are a time for celebration, adventure, and making unforgettable memories with friends. We love when people choose to spend their special day with us, blending fun, excitement, and valuable safety training into one incredible experience.

Recently, a group of ladies came to A+R Tactics to celebrate a birthday in the most unique way—with real-world self-defense training. The birthday girl planned the entire event as a surprise, keeping her friends in the dark about what they were doing or where they were going. Their reactions when they arrived? Pure excitement.

Most of us cater our martial arts skills to create offense. I remember early on taking the approach of being so offense-oriented that my strategy would often lead to 2 paths. 1. My opponent would be forced to play defense which would never allow them into the match. 2. They would ultimately succumb to the pressure and would give up a submission. Of course the very skilled and great opponents would find a way to defend, nullify and/or counter my offense.

Safety isn’t just a consideration—it’s a responsibility. This past week, a real estate office came to A+R Tactics for shoot/no-shoot scenario training focused on concealed carry and situational awareness in their line of work.

Real estate professionals often find themselves in situations where they’re meeting new clients alone, walking through unfamiliar properties, and navigating spaces that may present unexpected risks. By training in real-world scenarios, they can develop the skills and confidence to stay safe while doing their jobs.

At A+R Tactics, our mission is simple—to provide real-world, effective training to anyone who seeks it. Whether you're local or traveling from across the country, if you're committed to leveling up your skills, we're here to make it happen.

Recently, we had the honor of training with someone who flew down all the way from New York State for two full days of private training. He wanted to sharpen his CQB (Close Quarters Battle), grappling, and combatives, so we built a training experience tailored specifically to his goals.

When it comes to personal safety, discreet protection matters. Whether you're navigating everyday life or preparing for worst-case scenarios, having body armor that is lightweight, comfortable, and truly concealable can make all the difference. That’s why one of our favorite safety products is the Everyday Armor T-Shirt (Armored) by Premier Body Armor—a game-changing, bulletproof undershirt that provides protection without bulk.

In moments of conflict, time is everything. A situation can shift from tense to dangerous in a matter of seconds. This is why early intervention is a crucial skill—especially in environments where emotions run high, such as schools, workplaces, and public spaces.

In any self-defense situation, your first priority should always be finding a way out. Escape is the best option when possible, but what happens when that’s no longer an option? Situations escalate fast, and if you’re not mentally and physically prepared, you could find yourself reacting too late.

Our first-ever A+R Tactics and Strategic Dynamics Shoothouse Match was a huge success! With participants traveling up to four hours to compete, it was incredible to see shooters of all skill levels challenge themselves in a realistic, pressure-tested environment. Everyone walked away with new skills, exclusive training discounts, and a sense of accomplishment. Whether you're a seasoned shooter or brand new to CQB, this event proved that stepping out of your comfort zone is where real growth happens. Stay tuned for the next match—we can't wait to see you in the shoothouse!

Excerpt from Coming Face to Face with Yourself by Kenny Florian

Growth isn’t just about skill—it’s about confronting the hardest opponent of all: yourself. In the pursuit of mastery, the ego sneaks in, clouding our vision and convincing us to protect an illusion rather than embrace the reality of endless improvement. It resists change, rationalizes mistakes, and shields us from the discomfort of self-reflection. But the truth is, we are built to adapt, to evolve, and to push past limitations—if we’re willing to silence the ego and embrace the lessons that failure brings. The path forward isn’t about preserving an image, but about becoming the best version of ourselves, no matter how uncomfortable that process may be.

Personal safety isn’t about living in fear—it’s about awareness, preparation, and confidence. At A+R Tactics, we understand that self-protection is more than physical techniques; it’s a mindset and a set of skills that empower you to move through the world with confidence. Situational Awareness Is Your First Line of Defense Pay attention to your surroundings, not your phone. Trust your instincts—if something feels off, act on it.

Whether you're traveling for business, vacation, or adventure, safety should always be part of your plan. Staying aware and prepared allows you to enjoy the experience without unnecessary risk.

Parking lots and garages are common locations for crimes like theft, harassment, and even abductions. They provide easy cover for criminals, but with the right precautions, you can minimize your risk and stay safe.

Many people, especially women, experience unwanted attention in public places, online, or even from people they know. Knowing how to recognize and handle harassment is critical for maintaining personal safety.