The Ranges of Combat

By James Bullock

Range plays a pivotal role in the outcome of a violent engagement. By becoming proficient in all ranges of combat you will be better prepared to survive various types of attacks and situations from any distance. In MMA we train extensively in range integration. Range integration is the ability to effectively blend each range without breaking the fluidity of your offensive onslaught. You should not be attached to a particular range. Deal with each moment as it comes, adapting and adjusting as the situation dictates.

The core principle of range is distance manipulation. Generally, it is best to keep your opponent at a distance.

This does three things:

1.      It maximizes your reaction capabilities.

2.      It allows you to be aware of the opponent’s entire body.

3.      You can employ psychological intervention.

The Five Ranges

Psychological Range

This is the pre-contact phase of an altercation. Psychological Intervention is used at this range, which includes:

·        De-Escalation Tactics

·        Situational Analysis

·        Combative Language Assessment

Closing Range

At this range you are unable to strike the opponent unless you take a step forward. Lunging and other footwork tactics are used to close the gap at this range.

Long Range

This range is the first of the three contact ranges. It is defined as where you can strike the opponent with your longest offensive tools

 Medium Range

This is the second contact range of combat. At this range you can strike, or grab the opponent’s limbs or body with your lead or rear tools.

Close Quarters Range

This is the final contact range and is characterized by two parts: Clinching Warfare and Ground Warfare. Clinching Warfare is where you and the opponent are standing up in close quarters.

Ground Warfare is where you and the opponent are engaged in combat on the ground.

Another position you may find your self in during Ground Warfare is where the opponent is standing and you are grounded.

We also refer to close quarters as the center of destruction, this is because anything can and will happen at this range. Use everything you have in your anatomical arsenal.