Facts on Bodyguards

A bodyguard is a person hired to protect another person from various types of harm, such as assault and abduction. Bodyguards are most often hired to protect public figures, such as celebrities and politicians. Some prominent public figures may even hire a team of bodyguards to provide security.

Features

A good bodyguard is typically trained in firearms, combat, first aid, crowd control and surveillance. They often have a military or police background. Executive protection schools can provide bodyguard basics, but special training and personal marketing are important when seeking employment as a bodyguard.

Famous Ties

The Secret Service is the most well-known bodyguard service in the United States. It has protected the President, the presidential family and other high-level political figures since 1865.

Fun Fact

In the 1992 movie "The Bodyguard," a famous pop singer (Whitney Houston) falls in love with her bodyguard (Kevin Costner).

Misconceptions

Bodyguards are sometimes thought of as muscular bullies that stand between their client and the public. Actually, they are well-trained protectors that fulfill the security needs of their clients.

Types

Bodyguards are often called "Executive Protection" to overcome negative associations with over-sized bullies.