Police Defensive Tactics (PDT)

What is PDT

PDT is training in basic self-defence. Over 100 techniques are taught.

The techniques cover unarmed self-defence. Tae Kwon Do, Aikido and Karate are some of the techniques that are covered.

You’ll also learn how to use the T-baton to fend or block off attackers and defend yourself, or to restrain another person.

And yes, you’ll learn how to use handcuffs quickly and effectively.

What happens in PDT

A PDT session lasts about 3.5 hours, and takes place in the ‘dojo’, a room with padded mats on the floor.

For each technique you learn, there will be a demo, followed by some instructions on the important points to note, then you’ll practice together with your partner.

Why do it

PDT teaches you to defend yourself and protect your partner and others when you’re on duty. This is especially so when you’re facing aggressive or violent people.

What is it like

PDT is very intensive. There are many techniques to learn, so you’ll need a lot of discipline and focus.

PDT is also physically tiring.

You and your partner have to work hard together to get the technique right. Some techniques can get very tiring after a few rounds of practise. You may have to roll on the ground many times. You may have to swing your T-baton a lot, all of which are tiring.

If you lose focus, you and your squad may be punished and will be asked to do push-ups.

PDT can be painful too. Many techniques involve a good deal of contact and twisting.

Even though PDT is tough and strenuous, in the end, you’ll find the training extremely useful – it will help you get out of many difficult situations in the future.

Some tips

Stay focused. The training is fast-paced, with lots of techniques to learn. You’ll learn a lot faster and better if you’re focused.

PDT will be a lot less painful if you’re more flexible, so if possible, do stretching exercises often.

The flexibility of your wrists is especially important. Rotate your wrist a lot—it helps.

Safety concerns

PDT is surprisingly safe, even with all the physical intensity and pain. It’s not easy to get injured during PDT.

The 'dojo' floor has padded mats, so you can fall without getting injured.

Those with previous joint dislocations have to declare themselves, so dislocations are unheard of during PDT.

All the instructors are trained in first aid, so they’ll know what to do if anything goes wrong.

Hard facts & half truths

PDT isn’t meant to turn you into an aggressive fighter or attacker. It adopts a more passive and defensive mindset, where you and your partner’s safety are most important.