“Camp X” is a legendary Canadian special training school and base that operated during the Second World War. It was established to train intelligence agents and operatives, and today, Canadian self-defence schools carry on its traditions. Al Collins has founded his own “Camp X,” offering the unique “COMBATIVS” military self-defence course to Edmontonians. In this article on edmonton-yes, we’ll cover the course and discuss why self-defence is so important.
About “Camp X”
“Camp X” was officially opened on the shores of Lake Ontario near Toronto in 1941. The chief instructor was William Fairbairn, considered one of the world’s most dangerous “silent killers.” The father of Al Collins, who runs his own “Camp X” today, also trained under Fairbairn.
Agents were trained at “Camp X” for covert operations in Europe. Special focus was placed on psychological preparation, concealment, and survival in extreme conditions. The facility used state-of-the-art (for its time) martial arts and tactical training methods, which later formed the basis for “COMBATIVS” programs. This school became the prototype for many modern Canadian and international special training centres.
Today, a memorial plaque honours the site of the legendary school. While modern self-defence programs and schools sometimes use the “Camp X” name, these are civilian training programs and not direct successors to the original school.
Why Self-Defence Skills Are Important
Edmonton’s crime rate is following a worrying trend. Violent crimes, break-and-enters, and street thefts are unfortunately common. This highlights the importance of bolstering police efforts and developing effective crime prevention strategies.
In such conditions, being prepared for self-defence is crucial. Basic self-defence skills empower you to protect yourself from potential threats. Furthermore, self-defence training boosts self-confidence and promotes physical fitness.
The “COMBATIVS” Course
“Camp X” offers Edmontonians the unique “COMBATIVS” course. This is a close-quarters combat program that integrates elite special forces techniques. It is designed to overcome the shortcomings of other self-defence programs and guarantees effectiveness in violent encounters.
For example, MMA offers sport and skill, but it lacks the tactics necessary for a real-world fight. “COMBATIVS” provides battle-tested survival methods.
On the course, you will learn effective one-strike knockouts and attacks targeting critical zones to immediately neutralize a threat. You will also master tactics to dominate every encounter, ensuring your victory. The course even offers training in the use of knives, firearms, and unconventional weapons.
About Al Collins
The school’s head, Al Collins, is a certified combat instructor from a private military contractor that has trained the CIA and counter-terrorism units. Collins holds a black belt and has worked with elite military instructors for many years.
Al Collins invites anyone who doesn’t want to spend years and thousands of dollars on ineffective training to join the course. Collins notes that today’s combat sports industries earn billions from sporting events filled with restrictions, judges, and rules. However, this “child’s play”—focused on scoring points, belts, and trophies—is ineffective in dangerous real-world situations.
The “COMBATIVS” military self-defence course at “Camp X” in Edmonton is a unique opportunity to learn realistic defence and survival methods. Al Collins draws inspiration for his work from the history of the legendary special training school. Join the course to boost your self-confidence and prepare for critical situations.