Mastering Police Academy Foot Pursuit Tactics

Foot chases might look like adrenaline-fueled heroics on TV—but in real life, they’re one of the most dangerous and unpredictable things a police officer can face. In the academy, you’ll learn that chasing is only half the equation. What matters most is how you manage the pursuit—not just how fast you run.

1. Know When to Chase—and When Not To

Not every suspect is worth the sprint. A bad decision to chase can end in injury, ambush, or worse.

Tip: In training, practice verbalizing your decision to pursue or not. Use key cues: “Armed or unarmed? Violent offense? Location?” Your brain must learn to assess before your feet move.

2. Call It Out Loud and Clear

Communication keeps everyone safer. Once the chase starts, your radio becomes your lifeline.

Tip: Practice calling out “Foot pursuit! Direction of travel, suspect description, charges!” in one breath. Speed matters—but so does clarity.

3. Don’t Lose Your Head—Or Your Backup

Tunnel vision is real in foot pursuits. Recruits often forget to look around, check corners, or wait for backup.

Tip: Train yourself to glance up and around every few seconds. Knowing where you are and who’s with you is just as vital as catching the suspect.

4. Control the Containment, Not Just the Chase

A smart officer doesn’t always catch—they contain. Most suspects stop when they run out of options.

Tip: Learn to cut off escape routes, use perimeter units, and direct other officers. The suspect is thinking fast—you should be thinking smarter.

5. After the Catch—Stay Tactical

The arrest phase is just as risky as the pursuit. Suspects may fake surrender, conceal weapons, or try to turn the tables.

Tip: Practice high-risk handcuffing, verbal commands, and team takedowns. Never assume it’s over until the cuffs are locked and searched.

Final Thoughts

Excelling in foot pursuit training means balancing adrenaline with awareness. The best officers chase with purpose, communicate with clarity, and stay two steps ahead—not just physically, but mentally.

For more law enforcement training tips, visit www.armoganct.com.

Best,
Barbara
Armogan Training Team