Podcast: Play in new window
I am not exactly sure when I first heard about the Tactical Games. Part of me thinks it was a random social media post by some dude that I follow. At first it sounded interesting, but way outside of what I was focused on. Over time, though, the noise has grown, with more and more people talking about it. I decided it was time to start asking questions.
Luckily, one of the people I’ve seen posting a lot of images and thoughts was Mike Green, who I’ve interviewed once before. I sent him a message with a few questions, and we decided to sit down and talk it through.
For this interview, Mike also brought in his wife, Pascale. Together they operate Green Ops, which provides tactical training here in the Northern Virginia area as well as San Antonio, Texas. Mike helps RSO many of the events, and Pascale competes in the women’s division, where she recently won the intermediate competition and is looking to move up to Elite.
With my own workouts, I’ve likely been putting too much emphasis on the strength-building part at the expense of the rest. With an opportunity to compete in a brutality match in the spring of 2022, it might be time to adjust my plans.
Tactical Origins
The Tactical Games got their start as an approximation of training events regularly occurring in military units. Like other shooting events like the Brutality series, tactical biathlon, and more, the emphasis is on combining physical fitness with shooting.
Many competitors who find themselves at the games came from different worlds. Some might have been into Crossfit and wanted to add a bit of shooting to their life. Others might have a USPSA or multigun background, and decided to challenge their physical ability.
The best competitors are good at both. But fear not, as there are many divisions to allow for physical capability, with the heaviest weights and longest distances being reserved for the “elite” division.
I’ll probably not start there.
Key Takeaways
We cover a lot of ground in this episode, including the origin of the games and common things to look out for while training. One of the big learning points that stood out to Allison and I was checking your Gear. Mike mentioned doing “pre-combat inspections,” similar to those he did while on active duty.
In short, you need to put on your equipment and move around. Work out in it to see if anything rubs, jump up and down to check nothing falls out maybe even go upside down. Mike emphasized that at some point, you’ll find yourself upside down.
We discussed the crossover between configuring equipment for the games and a tactical mission as well. While there is crossover between the two, the priority might be different. Things like retention vs speed are important decisions that you’ll have to make in either situation.
Theoretically, though, Mike said that he could absolutely compete in the games using his duty equipment and probably be more comfortable due to reduced weight.
When it comes to weapon configuration, the big thing was reliability (as always), and also sling configuration.
While I’ve used slings a lot for shooting and carry, I’ve never slung it over my back to do burpees. The last thing you want to happen is the butt of the rifle smacking you in the back. of the head while you do a burpee or climb an obstacle.
Workouts
When it comes to physically preparing for the games, it doesn’t look all that different than a solid tactical fitness program that I outlined elsewhere. Every competitor must show a balance of strength, endurance, and agility while navigating challenges and then shooting.
Pascale mentioned that targets were often at 300-400 yards, and small in size, which makes things very difficult. if you can’t control your breathing and heart rate after a run.
Wrapping Up
I enjoyed this talk with Mike and Pascale, so thanks to them for sitting down with me. I also want to give a shout out to Allison who not only helped do the editing, but also joined for the recording. I’m looking forward to having her be more visible with the Everyday Marksman, and I hope you enjoyed what you heard.
