There are more than 100 drills a trainer can use to teach officers how to use striking shields. This article will give you some quick examples. It covers such key topics as developing power, enhancement of movement skills, and target placement for strikes. In other words, it just skims the surface of how to train with a tool that can be used across the force continuum.

Before we begin with a step-by-step plan for this training, be aware that striking bags are used in these drills to enable maximum repetitions with a quick recovery time. The goal is to increase gross and fine motor skill development.

Make sure your holders know the proper way to hold the bags for the drill you are conducting.

Ensure the holder is wearing the proper safety equipment: head gear, mouthpiece, groin protector, and lower leg protection.

Conduct a few dry runs with the holders to ensure they know their role.

Ensure the holders know the "safe word" to stop the simulation if necessary.

Make sure you have safety coaches to watch out for any unsafe conditions.

Caution: Officers have been seriously injured because they held the striking bag incorrectly. Make sure they know how to do this before you proceed further.

Movement Patterns for Striking Shields

OK. Let’s move on to some striking shield drills.

Each time the bag is hit, the holder takes two steps back.

Each time the bag is hit, the holder takes two steps back and pivots a half turn to the right or left.

Each time the bag is hit, the holder takes two steps back, pivots a half turn to the right or left, then changes angle of target.

Each time the bag is hit, the holder takes two steps forward.

Each time the bag is hit, the holder takes two steps forward and pivots a half turn to the right or left.

Each time the bag is hit, the holder takes two steps forward, pivots a half turn to the right or left, then changes angle of target.

Now conduct a series of movements for a designated period of time; 15 seconds, 30 seconds, 60 seconds, etc.

Conclusion of Drills

Have the drill end with the officer taking the bag holder down to the ground and creating distance while giving verbal commands to the bag holder who complies.

Have the drill end with the officer taking the bag holder down to the ground and creating distance while giving verbal commands. As the officer approaches, the bag holder rolls to one side, exposing the front side of the striking bag to the officer for front kicks

Have the drill end with the officer taking the bag holder down to the ground, creating distance while giving verbal commands, then moving into make initial contact

Have the drill end with the officer taking the bag holder down to the ground and creating distance while giving verbal commands, then moving in to make initial contact and cuffing the bag holder.

Have the drill end with the officer attempting to take the bag holder down to the ground. Have the bag holder present a threat that requires the officer to disengage.