CHAOS
Close Quarters High Adrenaline Operational Strategies
Performance when avoidance is no longer an option
CHAOS is a progressive personal safety training system designed to prepare individuals for close-range, high-stress situations where decisive physical action is required.
Training focuses on movement, positioning, pressure, and performance under adrenaline — emphasizing controlled, responsible action when situations have already escalated.
WHAT CHAOS IS (AND IS NOT)
What CHAOS Is
CHAOS is designed for situations where space is limited, stress is high, and engagement is unavoidable. The system develops physical and mental performance through structured progression, increasing complexity, and realistic training environments.
What CHAOS Is Not
CHAOS is not a fitness class, a casual self-defense seminar, or a substitute for awareness and avoidance training. It is intended for individuals who understand that physical engagement carries risk and responsibility.
HOW CHAOS FITS INTO THE TWISTED PERSONAL SAFETY SYSTEM
Where CHAOS Fits
CHAOS builds on the principles introduced in foundational personal safety training such as CUE: Controlling the Unknown Encounter.
While CUE focuses on recognizing and managing uncertainty early, CHAOS addresses situations where avoidance has failed and close-quarters action is required.
THE CHAOS CURRICULUM (LEVELS OVERVIEW)
The CHAOS Curriculum
CHAOS is taught as a progressive, six-level training system. Each level builds on the previous, increasing complexity, intensity, and decision-making demands in close-quarters, high-stress environments.
Participants progress through the system with instructor guidance based on experience, readiness, and training goals.
CHAOS Level 1: Standing Entanglement & Clinch Control
This level focuses on managing close-range physical engagement from a standing position. Training emphasizes posture, balance, frames, grips, and controlling another person in tight spaces where disengagement is difficult.
Participants develop the ability to stabilize situations, deny dominant positions, and maintain control under pressure.
CHAOS Level 2: Ground Control & Escape
Level 2 addresses situations where the fight goes to the ground. Instruction focuses on maintaining position, protecting oneself, creating space, and escaping from disadvantageous positions.
Training emphasizes surviving, stabilizing, and regaining the ability to move or disengage under stress.
CHAOS Level 3: Pressure & Feedback Training
This level introduces increased resistance, stress, and feedback to test decision-making and performance. Participants work under elevated heart rate, fatigue, and uncertainty to develop composure and adaptability.
The goal is to function effectively when adrenaline is high and conditions are imperfect.
CHAOS Level 4: Force Multipliers & Access
Level 4 introduces the concept of force multipliers within close-quarters environments. Training focuses on recognizing appropriate moments, creating access, and maintaining control while integrating additional tools responsibly.
Instruction emphasizes decision-making, timing, and maintaining safety under pressure.
CHAOS Level 5: Weapons in Entanglement
This level addresses the complexities of weapons involvement during close physical engagement. Training focuses on managing space, controlling access, and maintaining awareness when weapons are present in entangled situations.
Emphasis is placed on responsibility, control, and understanding the risks inherent in close-range encounters.
CHAOS Level 6: Capstone Lab
The Capstone Lab integrates concepts from all previous levels into structured, scenario-based training. Participants apply movement, control, decision-making, and tool integration under realistic constraints.
This level is designed to test judgment, adaptability, and performance across a range of high-stress situations.
*Participants enter at the appropriate level based on experience and instructor guidance.
WHO CHAOS IS FOR
Who CHAOS Is For
CHAOS is appropriate for individuals who:
- Want serious, structured personal safety training
- Are comfortable with physical intensity and controlled contact
- Understand the responsibility associated with close-quarters engagement
- Are looking to progress beyond introductory training
*Prior participation in CUE or equivalent training is strongly recommended.
PUBLIC SESSIONS VS. PRIVATE TRAINING
Training Format
CHAOS is introduced through publicly scheduled sessions that teach core concepts and skills.
Continued development, advanced application, and specialized focus are best supported through private or small-group training tailored to experience level, goals, and context.
PRIVATE & CUSTOM CHAOS TRAINING
Private & Small-Group CHAOS Training
Private and small-group CHAOS training allows instruction to be customized for individuals or teams seeking focused development.
This format supports:
- Goal-specific training
- Adjusted intensity and pacing
- Increased realism while maintaining safety
- Professional or occupational applications
HOW TO GET STARTED
Getting Started with CHAOS
If you’re new to Twisted Fitness personal safety training, CUE is the recommended starting point.
If you have prior experience, our instructors can help guide you to the appropriate CHAOS level or training format.