
Home About Our System Train w/ Us FAQs About Brian Testimonials Articles Contact Us Fitness & Performance Resources	Student/Client Testimonials I train folks from all walks of life; law enforcement, military, mothers, daughters, doctors, call center employees and CEOs. They all have one thing in common, they want to know the best system to defend themselves and their families against asocial random acts of violence. Here are their stories. A daughter brutally killed, two teens date raped A daughter, recently out of college, living in a apt complex was brutally killed by another tenant. Two teens, not yet 20, date raped within their first two years of college. These three girls, whom I know personally, join too many others who are hurt or killed by someone else. Do I want my children to have to fight-no. Do I want them to hurt someone else-no. Do I want them to know what to do if they are scared or attacked-Yes!. Brian's self defense class is not finese, it's not fitness, it's not a sport. He provides practical actions and reactions so that if you are ever attacked, you know what to do to get away. I recommend this class for all teens and adults. He couples the escape and defense ideas with responsible situational awareness, and is carefull to point out that we all are responsible for using the least amount of force required to defuse a situation. It's a combination that will serve us well. Janet I was not afraid to do anything wrong because the class was very easy going After taking the self defense class I am much more confident in myself because the situations we practiced in class and the explanations of the different situations that i may encounter in the real world. Brian is a really good teacher and is patient with people who don't catch on right away. In the class I was not afraid to do anything wrong because the class was very easy going. I would recommend the class to others because it is incredibly valuable knowledge for everyone and the environment is great to learn in. Amanda If you want to feel safer & more confident about yourself, Brian's your man! I am an emergency and sports medicine physician. I have trained with Brian in both kettlebells and self-defense for approximately 6 months. And I can say without question they have been the most effective and valuable techniques I have ever seen. Brian's kettlebell & self-defense instruction is always professional, easy to understand and fun... and the results speak for themselves. Not only am I more fit from Brian's kettlebell training, but I feel infinitely safer and more confident from his self defense training. If you want to feel safer & more confident about yourself, Brian is your man! Dr. William E. Gottlieb, M.D. Feel confident that you can take care of yourself – it is time to be your own bodyguard! Women and men alike will feel empowered by finally having a no nonsense way to defend themselves and their families. Beginners to Martial Arts or Self-Defense will really ‘get’ the easy to learn techniques while experienced Martial Artists, Brazilian Jujitsu, Thai Boxers, etc. will find that they can easily assimilate Brian’s system into their own Martial Arts and be ready for real street scenarios. As a woman, feeling confident and assured in any potential situation is essential – and knowing that as a female I can bring out my inner street fighter, and bring that level of viciousness out to confront a larger stronger male attacker makes me feel much safer. Brian’s training is fun, safe and informative – when we are learning to bite, eye gouge and other things you wouldn't normally do in daily life, it really helps that he explains the life and death scenarios where we would need to use these skills. Brian teaches a system of self protection, and one that is easily utilized. Walking to my car in a dark parking lot has never felt safer. Andrea U-Shi Chang Brian is “the Real Deal” 1. I went from zero confidence to being confident that I could actually be effective in defending myself. 2. I now believe that thanks to this class I would not freeze in fear if I was approached by someone with possible intent to harm 3. I know what weapons are the most effective, and which ones are not worth the trouble. 4. I know how to train to be able to defend myself. 5. I am much calmer and much more observant in public I have had several other martial arts and self defense classes. As far as them teaching me something practical to use in a real world situation, there is simply no comparison. I took a Shaolin Kung Fu class, and another CFU self defense course but this was the best. I have already enthusiastically recommended this class to three friends of mine. This class was better than what I had thought, and the confidence it has instilled was quite unexpected. I would highly recommend this class. . I hope to be able to continue learning self defense and practical martial arts from Brian, he is “the Real Deal,” as well as being a natural and effective teacher. The class was very well done, serious, but also fun. Sincerely, James Void of Ego and Arrogance 1. I have increased my situational awareness of my everyday surroundings and I am no longer walking around oblivious to my environment. 2. I have been taught some very simple moves that when executed with speed can get me out of trouble and possibly save my life. 3. The situational case studies that we discussed in class I found to be very informative such as handling traffic accident confrontations/road rage etc. 4. I have learned the value of always being armed with a folding knife so as to have a deterrent and not be caught defenseless. 5. Perhaps most importantly Brian has reinforced what I have always practiced in terms of avoiding fights and confrontations whenever possible. Having had more college instructors and other business instructors than I care to remember, I am very impressed by Brian's knowledge and his patient demeanor that is void of ego and arrogance. I would recommend Brian without any hesitation. He really knows his material and he teaches it in a very open, friendly, and non-threatening style. Jack Very Matter of Fact Brian's beginner-level Self-Defense class goes at a pace that allows you to absorb everything and to completely understand your strengths. Its very important to 'react' with clear thinking and this class helped with that. Compared to other Self-Defense classes, Brian's didn't have such an aggressive approach to it, more of a matter of fact tone. Very applicable instead of blind aggression. I learned to have sharper thinking, to stay present during an attack, the are of fear!, how much damage I can really do to an attacker and the proper tactics to maximize my ability to win and go home safe. Go to Brian Copeland; learn to defend yourself, know that you have choices. LaShay C. To the Point! Extremely Effective Training! Brian's training is much more "to-the-point" compared to other Martial Arts training. The system is extremely effective. The training is a safe, pleasant and knowledgable environment lead by and excellent instructor. I now have better awareness of my surroundings, more confidence in a self-defense situation, more knowledge in the use of weapons (legal weapons) and an increased arsenal of self-defense moves. I am more aware of my physical potential. You've got to check out Progressive Combat Systems. Esteban M. Brian taught me techniques I can use right away, which in turn gave me the belief that I CAN defend myself. This translated into confidence - the right mind-set to defend myself. He never gets down on us for our lack of ability. He always accepts us where we are and teaches us things we can put to use RIGHT NOW. The class gave me an increased awareness of situations, an attitude of confidence, tactics that improve my odds (how to cheat to win), techniques and extra tips which I believe will give me an edge. Talk to Brian! He probably has the solution you're looking for. His knowledge is incredible and his experience is more extensive than most people out there. Joan G. Go for it! You'll learn lots and have fun! I wanted to be able to truly defend myself and build upon my Krav Maga training, and of course, have fun in the process. I am now much more aware and confident. Despite the subject material the training was never uncomfortable, it was very enjoyable and informative. Brian is a very good instructor and is able to teach a lot in a very short amount of time. I especially like that the moves we learned were very simple and easy to remember and perform. I'll be recommending Brian and Progressive Combat Systems to all my friends. Emerson - Denver, CO I'm Really Glad I Took This Training! I feel like I can defend myself even when I came into the beginner self-defense class knowing nothing. I feel a lot more mentally prepared and now I know what to do in many different attacks. The beginner level self-defense class was lots of fun, somethings surprised me, but I'm really glad that I took it. Brian is funny but serious when needed, overall awesome! I would most definitely recommend others to take this class! Jaidee - Denver, CO Still Amazed at the Simplicity and Effectiveness of the System "I just wanted to say thanks for the excellent instruction that you provided during the 6 hours of your Intense Personal Self Defense Training Course. I thought you did a great job of breaking down each topic and working with me until I had it down and I feel very confident in the concepts and techniques that you taught me. I was very comfortable the entire time and I thought you did a great job of keeping the sessions relaxed, yet very focused especially when considering the subject matter. Initially, I was a little worried that the training I received from you would conflict with what I learned in Krav Maga; however, the training I received actually supplements or enhances what I learned in my Krav classes. One of the best things about the system is that I was able to easily incorporate techniques that I learned previously and I really like how you encouraged me to choose the techniques that worked best for me instead of taking a “one size fits all” approach. Likewise, I’m still amazed at the simplicity and effectiveness of the system and the fact that it works for everyone from high school cheerleaders to Navy SEALS. I’ve already recommended you to some friends and co-workers and I will continue to encourage others to train with you. Keep up the great work!" Kevin Colbert How to Kick Butt 101 I am protection oriented and after taking Brian's beginner self-defense class my fighting technique has changed for the better. You really get input on how to kick butt! Kandie - Denver, CO Individualized Attention I now have much more confidence in the strategies and also in applying them in response to a real threat. Brian is good at attending to participants when further practice is needed, he gives individualized attention to bring up areas of weakness. Shauna This class was very informative and helpful, you should just go for it! Lisa Anderson - Denver Simple? Yes! Effective? For sure! Brutal? Well yes, but we are talking about learning how to deal with potentially life threatening encounters here. Over the years I've studied Karate, Jujitsu, Muay Thai, Systema and more recently Krav Maga and each has something unique to offer, but who has the time to learn several martial arts? The system Brian is teaching condenses the best, most effective techniques from a myriad of different martial arts into one system that gets right to the heart of the matter; namely - recognize the threat, deal with it, and get the hell out! And if you're thinking brutal self defense system must mean brutal training, then don't worry; Brian's classes are very safe, relaxed, and even fun! You won't be going home covered in bruises, sporting a black eye, though what you will take with you every time is a little bit more knowledge and expertise that might one day help save your life! Cheers, David Brian Copeland's self defense class is awesome! I love this class because it's based on how to react to real world danger that most of us are completely unprepared for. While I learned a lot, the program is surprisingly simple; no difficult moves that need a lot of strength or skill to do. Best of all, you can tell that Brian is truly passionate about it. His teaching is clear, concise and easy to follow. I'd pretty much recommend that EVERYONE learn these skills because you’ll never know when you’ll need them! Especially moms and daughters! Thanks Brian!! Everett Harcourt Owner of FitnessBoard.NET admin@fitnessboard.net I have always thought that I could take care of myself in any situation. But after taking only two courses of Brian’s self defense/Martial Arts training. I now know I would be slaughtered going up against a few thugs or anyone who knows how to fight. The courses are in a private studio, so you are going to feel like you’re in a safe, friendly environment, Brian I would say has to be one of the best teachers/personal trainers I have ever been to. He will personally answer any question for you no matter how crazy or silly it is (so you won’t feel left behind). This class has been very informative. Brian is knowledgeable in training you physically in any situation, (from a drunken friend to a group of thugs with weapons) not only does he show you physical motions, he helps you mentally, and when your head is in the game, you can get out safely. After I complete a few more classes, I’m going to send my wife. Tim N. The most important thing I am learning is that even as a large guy and a former collegiate athlete, I really have to train myself to respond effectively to a real confrontation. The most important thing that Brian taught me is to be mentally and physically prepared to use aggressive tactics to counteract and escape violence. His methods are straight forward, instinctive and fun to learn in a professional studio. A.C. The beginner-level classes were great, they went fast and were very engaging and interesting. Everyone participated!! The techniques were very easy to learn. Go to Brian if you want to learn to defend yourself in an easy and realistic manner, it is that good!! I am not afraid anymore! I always used to be afraid of knives but not anymore and I know what to do if someone is getting too close. I will be back for the next class. Sara Brian is a great instructor and I would recommend him to anyone. The 5 things I really got out of the beginner class were 1. How to know when I'm in danger, 2. How to defend myself, 3. I got the strength to stand up for myself, 4. I feel ready and 5. I feel confident! The instruction was great. We always got good feedback on very realistic ways to defend ourselves. MIssy Brian was great! Not only educational but entertaining. I feel very empowered! Lisa S. I aquired the basic knowledge for defending myself; how to be alert, prepared, how to use a weapon and how to look out for my surroundings. Take the beginner-level self-defense class like I did to prepare you fro the advanced classes. Cynthia I took the 6-week beginner level class and it was very helpful. It gave me a good basic foundation in self-defense. I plan on continuing classes with Brian. George Excellent Opportunity to Learn I learned: 1. How to better handle a knife in a fight. 2. How to get someone off the top of me. 3. How to better defend myself. This is an excellent opportunity to learn self-defense. Dana If you are a regular Joe or Jane and want to have the empowerment of our system contact me today. If you are an experienced Martial Artist from any background and you want to know how to take your already exceptional skill and translate that into the quickest way to end a violent encounter possible, then contact me today. back to top

Student/Client Testimonials

I train folks from all walks of life; law enforcement, military, mothers, daughters, doctors, call center employees and CEOs. They all have one thing in common, they want to know the best system to defend themselves and their families against asocial random acts of violence.

Here are their stories.

A daughter brutally killed, two teens date raped

A daughter, recently out of college, living in a apt complex was brutally killed by another tenant. Two teens, not yet 20, date raped within their first two years of college. These three girls, whom I know personally, join too many others who are hurt or killed by someone else. Do I want my children to have to fight-no. Do I want them to hurt someone else-no. Do I want them to know what to do if they are scared or attacked-Yes!. Brian's self defense class is not finese, it's not fitness, it's not a sport. He provides practical actions and reactions so that if you are ever attacked, you know what to do to get away. I recommend this class for all teens and adults. He couples the escape and defense ideas with responsible situational awareness, and is carefull to point out that we all are responsible for using the least amount of force required to defuse a situation. It's a combination that will serve us well.

Janet

I was not afraid to do anything wrong because the class was very easy going

After taking the self defense class I am much more confident in myself because the situations we practiced in class and the explanations of the different situations that i may encounter in the real world. Brian is a really good teacher and is patient with people who don't catch on right away. In the class I was not afraid to do anything wrong because the class was very easy going. I would recommend the class to others because it is incredibly valuable knowledge for everyone and the environment is great to learn in.

Amanda

If you want to feel safer & more confident about yourself, Brian's your man!

I am an emergency and sports medicine physician. I have trained with Brian in both kettlebells and self-defense for approximately 6 months. And I can say without question they have been the most effective and valuable techniques I have ever seen.

Brian's kettlebell & self-defense instruction is always professional, easy to understand and fun... and the results speak for themselves. Not only am I more fit from Brian's kettlebell training, but I feel infinitely safer and more confident from his self defense training.

If you want to feel safer & more confident about yourself, Brian is your man!

Dr. William E. Gottlieb, M.D.

Feel confident that you can take care of yourself – it is time to be your own bodyguard!

Women and men alike will feel empowered by finally having a no nonsense way to defend themselves and their families. Beginners to Martial Arts or Self-Defense will really ‘get’ the easy to learn techniques while experienced Martial Artists, Brazilian Jujitsu, Thai Boxers, etc. will find that they can easily assimilate Brian’s system into their own Martial Arts and be ready for real street scenarios.

As a woman, feeling confident and assured in any potential situation is essential – and knowing that as a female I can bring out my inner street fighter, and bring that level of viciousness out to confront a larger stronger male attacker makes me feel much safer.

Brian’s training is fun, safe and informative – when we are learning to bite, eye gouge and other things you wouldn't normally do in daily life, it really helps that he explains the life and death scenarios where we would need to use these skills.

Brian teaches a system of self protection, and one that is easily utilized. Walking to my car in a dark parking lot has never felt safer.

Andrea U-Shi Chang

Brian is “the Real Deal”

1. I went from zero confidence to being confident that I could actually be effective in defending myself.
2. I now believe that thanks to this class I would not freeze in fear if I was approached by someone with possible intent to harm
3. I know what weapons are the most effective, and which ones are not worth the trouble.
4. I know how to train to be able to defend myself.
5. I am much calmer and much more observant in public

I have had several other martial arts and self defense classes. As far as them teaching me something practical to use in a real world situation, there is simply no comparison. I took a Shaolin Kung Fu class, and another CFU self defense course but this was the best.

I have already enthusiastically recommended this class to three friends of mine.

This class was better than what I had thought, and the confidence it has instilled was quite unexpected. I would highly recommend this class. .

I hope to be able to continue learning self defense and practical martial arts from Brian, he is “the Real Deal,” as well as being a natural and effective teacher. The class was very well done, serious, but also fun.

Sincerely,
James

Void of Ego and Arrogance

1. I have increased my situational awareness of my everyday surroundings and I am no longer walking around oblivious to my environment.
2. I have been taught some very simple moves that when executed with speed can get me out of trouble and possibly save my life.
3. The situational case studies that we discussed in class I found to be very informative such as handling traffic accident confrontations/road rage etc.
4. I have learned the value of always being armed with a folding knife so as to have a deterrent and not be caught defenseless.
5. Perhaps most importantly Brian has reinforced what I have always practiced in terms of avoiding fights and confrontations whenever possible.

Having had more college instructors and other business instructors than I care to remember, I am very impressed by Brian's knowledge and his patient demeanor that is void of ego and arrogance.

I would recommend Brian without any hesitation. He really knows his material and he teaches it in a very open, friendly, and non-threatening style.

Jack

Very Matter of Fact

Brian's beginner-level Self-Defense class goes at a pace that allows you to absorb everything and to completely understand your strengths. Its very important to 'react' with clear thinking and this class helped with that.

Compared to other Self-Defense classes, Brian's didn't have such an aggressive approach to it, more of a matter of fact tone. Very applicable instead of blind aggression.

I learned to have sharper thinking, to stay present during an attack, the are of fear!, how much damage I can really do to an attacker and the proper tactics to maximize my ability to win and go home safe.

Go to Brian Copeland; learn to defend yourself, know that you have choices.

LaShay C.

To the Point! Extremely Effective Training!

Brian's training is much more "to-the-point" compared to other Martial Arts training. The system is extremely effective. The training is a safe, pleasant and knowledgable environment lead by and excellent instructor.

I now have better awareness of my surroundings, more confidence in a self-defense situation, more knowledge in the use of weapons (legal weapons) and an increased arsenal of self-defense moves. I am more aware of my physical potential.

You've got to check out Progressive Combat Systems.

Esteban M.

Brian taught me techniques I can use right away, which in turn gave me the belief that I CAN defend myself. This translated into confidence - the right mind-set to defend myself.

He never gets down on us for our lack of ability. He always accepts us where we are and teaches us things we can put to use RIGHT NOW.

The class gave me an increased awareness of situations, an attitude of confidence, tactics that improve my odds (how to cheat to win), techniques and extra tips which I believe will give me an edge.

Talk to Brian! He probably has the solution you're looking for. His knowledge is incredible and his experience is more extensive than most people out there.

Joan G.

Go for it! You'll learn lots and have fun!

I wanted to be able to truly defend myself and build upon my Krav Maga training, and of course, have fun in the process. I am now much more aware and confident. Despite the subject material the training was never uncomfortable, it was very enjoyable and informative.

Brian is a very good instructor and is able to teach a lot in a very short amount of time.

I especially like that the moves we learned were very simple and easy to remember and perform.

I'll be recommending Brian and Progressive Combat Systems to all my friends.

Emerson - Denver, CO

I'm Really Glad I Took This Training!

I feel like I can defend myself even when I came into the beginner self-defense class knowing nothing. I feel a lot more mentally prepared and now I know what to do in many different attacks.

The beginner level self-defense class was lots of fun, somethings surprised me, but I'm really glad that I took it.

Brian is funny but serious when needed, overall awesome! I would most definitely recommend others to take this class!

Jaidee - Denver, CO

Still Amazed at the Simplicity and Effectiveness of the System

"I just wanted to say thanks for the excellent instruction that you provided during the 6 hours of your Intense Personal Self Defense Training Course. I thought you did a great job of breaking down each topic and working with me until I had it down and I feel very confident in the concepts and techniques that you taught me.

I was very comfortable the entire time and I thought you did a great job of keeping the sessions relaxed, yet very focused especially when considering the subject matter. Initially, I was a little worried that the training I received from you would conflict with what I learned in Krav Maga; however, the training I received actually supplements or enhances what I learned in my Krav classes. One of the best things about the system is that I was able to easily incorporate techniques that I learned previously and I really like how you encouraged me to choose the techniques that worked best for me instead of taking a “one size fits all” approach. Likewise, I’m still amazed at the simplicity and effectiveness of the system and the fact that it works for everyone from high school cheerleaders to Navy SEALS. I’ve already recommended you to some friends and co-workers and I will continue to encourage others to train with you. Keep up the great work!"

Kevin Colbert

How to Kick Butt 101

I am protection oriented and after taking Brian's beginner self-defense class my fighting technique has changed for the better.

You really get input on how to kick butt!

Kandie - Denver, CO

Individualized Attention

I now have much more confidence in the strategies and also in applying them in response to a real threat. Brian is good at attending to participants when further practice is needed, he gives individualized attention to bring up areas of weakness.

Shauna

This class was very informative and helpful, you should just go for it!

Lisa Anderson - Denver

Simple? Yes! Effective? For sure! Brutal? Well yes, but we are talking about learning how to deal with potentially life threatening encounters here.

Over the years I've studied Karate, Jujitsu, Muay Thai, Systema and more recently Krav Maga and each has something unique to offer, but who has the time to learn several martial arts? The system Brian is teaching condenses the best, most effective techniques from a myriad of different martial arts into one system that gets right to the heart of the matter; namely - recognize the threat, deal with it, and get the hell out!

And if you're thinking brutal self defense system must mean brutal training, then don't worry; Brian's classes are very safe, relaxed, and even fun! You won't be going home covered in bruises, sporting a black eye, though what you will take with you every time is a little bit more knowledge and expertise that might one day help save your life!

Cheers,
David

Brian Copeland's self defense class is awesome!

I love this class because it's based on how to react to real world danger that most of us are completely unprepared for. While I learned a lot, the program is surprisingly simple; no difficult moves that need a lot of strength or skill to do. Best of all, you can tell that Brian is truly passionate about it. His teaching is clear, concise and easy to follow. I'd pretty much recommend that EVERYONE learn these skills because you’ll never know when you’ll need them! Especially moms and daughters!

Thanks Brian!!

Everett Harcourt
Owner of FitnessBoard.NET
admin@fitnessboard.net

I have always thought that I could take care of myself in any situation. But after taking only two courses of Brian’s self defense/Martial Arts training. I now know I would be slaughtered going up against a few thugs or anyone who knows how to fight.

The courses are in a private studio, so you are going to feel like you’re in a safe, friendly environment, Brian I would say has to be one of the best teachers/personal trainers I have ever been to. He will personally answer any question for you no matter how crazy or silly it is (so you won’t feel left behind).

This class has been very informative. Brian is knowledgeable in training you physically in any situation, (from a drunken friend to a group of thugs with weapons) not only does he show you physical motions, he helps you mentally, and when your head is in the game, you can get out safely. After I complete a few more classes, I’m going to send my wife.

Tim N.

The most important thing I am learning is that even as a large guy and a former collegiate athlete, I really have to train myself to respond effectively to a real confrontation. The most important thing that Brian taught me is to be mentally and physically prepared to use aggressive tactics to counteract and escape violence.

His methods are straight forward, instinctive and fun to learn in a professional studio.

A.C.

The beginner-level classes were great, they went fast and were very engaging and interesting. Everyone participated!! The techniques were very easy to learn. Go to Brian if you want to learn to defend yourself in an easy and realistic manner, it is that good!! I am not afraid anymore! I always used to be afraid of knives but not anymore and I know what to do if someone is getting too close. I will be back for the next class.

Sara

Brian is a great instructor and I would recommend him to anyone. The 5 things I really got out of the beginner class were 1. How to know when I'm in danger, 2. How to defend myself, 3. I got the strength to stand up for myself, 4. I feel ready and 5. I feel confident!

The instruction was great. We always got good feedback on very realistic ways to defend ourselves.

MIssy

Brian was great! Not only educational but entertaining. I feel very empowered!

Lisa S.

I aquired the basic knowledge for defending myself; how to be alert, prepared, how to use a weapon and how to look out for my surroundings. Take the beginner-level self-defense class like I did to prepare you fro the advanced classes.

Cynthia

I took the 6-week beginner level class and it was very helpful. It gave me a good basic foundation in self-defense. I plan on continuing classes with Brian.

George

Excellent Opportunity to Learn

I learned:
1. How to better handle a knife in a fight.
2. How to get someone off the top of me.
3. How to better defend myself.

This is an excellent opportunity to learn self-defense.

Dana

If you are a regular Joe or Jane and want to have the empowerment of our system contact me today.

If you are an experienced Martial Artist from any background and you want to know how to take your already exceptional skill and translate that into the quickest way to end a violent encounter possible, then contact me today.
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