A bodyguard is a trained professional who is responsible for an individual’s personal security. The majority of bodyguards protect celebrities, important political figures, business executives, and others who may be targeted for personal attacks. They accompany clients to public events, spot potential threats, conduct security checks, and devise escape plans. When their clients are harassed or attacked, bodyguards step in to protect them.
Despite the popular perception of a bodyguard as a huge, bulky, silent figure, most bodyguards are average-looking individuals. However, a bodyguard must be physically fit and capable of defending himself and his client in a crisis. Bodyguards must also have excellent communication, planning, and problem-solving abilities. They must be able to effectively direct event security guards and walk their clients through procedures. Bodyguards must be able to react quickly and effectively in emergency situations, as well as make quick decisions about plan changes.
A bodyguard can either work independently or as part of a security team. He keeps a safe distance between himself and his client at all times, observing bystanders and keeping them at a safe distance. Before a client enters a facility or a public gathering place, the bodyguard assesses the situation and determines the best exit routes in the event of an emergency. In addition, bodyguards are frequently in charge of transporting their clients to and from events. They must carefully plan routes to ensure that their customers arrive and depart safely from their destinations.
In most cases, a high school diploma is enough to work as a bodyguard. Professionals are usually required to pass training courses in self-defense, first aid, weapons disarming, and defensive driving offered by specialized bodyguard schools. Classroom and online studies are common in training programs, which can take anywhere from one month to a year to complete. Because experts in such fields have already received much of the training and experience necessary to successfully perform the job, a large number of bodyguards are former members of the military or a police force.
Weapons such as firearms and tasers are carried by many bodyguards. To carry concealed weapons in most countries, they must receive specialized training and certification. Individuals can learn how to safely operate firearms and hone their self-defense skills at shooting ranges. If a shot must be fired, the bodyguard must be fully prepared to deal with the situation quickly while protecting innocent bystanders.