The main instructor and founder of Recon Sparring is Michael von Pickartz. He is a lifelong practitioner of various martial arts and self-defense systems. For him, 'Martial Arts' is not just a passion, but a way of life, a quest for true mastery.

◈ Relevant Studies: Michael has studied psychology, criminology, and sports.

◈ Work Experience: Michael has served in three different military units: armored infantry, military police, and elite forces (red berets). He has held roles such as instructor, group commander, and scout. Michael has also been deployed to Kosovo and Afghanistan. Thanks to these military trainings and experiences, he has gained significant knowledge and skills in military close combat and mindset. He has experienced the true nature of violence.

Additionally, Michael has worked in various mental health organizations, specializing in 'complex behavior.' This experience has equipped him with relevant knowledge and expertise in understanding, changing, and directing human behavior.

◈ Approach to Self-Protection: Michael is an evidence-based instructor, basing his teachings on intensive research into real violence and criminal behavior patterns. He believes in continuous self-improvement, exemplified by his RVFK initiative, where he analyzes realistic scenarios to gain knowledge that contributes to Recon Sparring and society.

Depending on the task or project, he collaborates with expert parties as needed. Currently, Michael works full-time as a mental strength coach and psychomotor therapist. Additionally, he runs his own resilience center part-time, where Recon Sparring is a part of.

One of his favorite quotes is "Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall."

Written in friendship...