How to Pass Bodyguard Training

Bodyguards put themselves between their clients and danger. Whether protecting a celebrity, a corporate executive or a politician, bodyguards must make split-second decisions to ensure their client's safety. This profession requires the readiness of a police officer, the discretion of a diplomat and the strength and skills of a soldier. Professional training varies widely -- the government has never mandated a particular curriculum -- but every program includes physical fitness and endurance, self-defense skills and weapon skills.

Instructions

1. Enter into the police or some branch of law enforcement. While it is not necessary to have a law enforcement background to pass bodyguard training, the fitness training and weapons training police officers acquire can be helpful in bodyguard training. Every bodyguard training course is different, but most emphasize physical condition and weapons expertise.

2. Make physical fitness a top priority. Run, swim or bike daily, as well as undertake regular weight lifting or another strength development program. The more physically fit you are when you enter a bodyguard program, the more likely it is that you will pass.

3. Become a technical whiz. Much intelligence training is Internet-based, and many bodyguard or executive protection programs focus on detecting and investigating threats online. If you have never dabbled in the virtual world, look for a beginning class at a community center or local college. Alternatively, buy a "how to" book, and head to the local library to teach yourself. Although the ins and outs of Web-based intelligence training require specialized training -- part of your bodyguard training course -- you will have an easier time if you know Internet basics before you start.

4. Get your black belt in karate, judo or some other martial arts. The ability to protect yourself and your client is not something you can master in a several-month training program, so entering the program with high-level skills will hold you in good stead.

5. Choose your training program carefully. Hundreds of courses exist, ranging from several days to several years. Each has a particular focus, training bodyguards for a particular type of service. Narrow down your career goals, read and evaluate information about each program, and get recommendations from people in the business. Some state criminal justice departments certify security and protection training courses. A list of certified schools is a good place to start your training search. Count on visiting the school and talking to some graduates before making a final selection.

Tips & Warnings

• Some executive protection programs require a university degree in law enforcement. Check before you apply.

References

• Criminal Justice Schools Degrees.com: How to Become a Bodyguard and Find Bodyguard Training, Schools, Jobs, and Careers
• Bodyguard Training International: Welcome
• AKI Security Training Center: Bodyguard Training