Hand-to-hand combat
Hand-to-hand combat is physical fighting between opponents at very close range, using bodily techniques and sometimes handheld weapons.
Striking: Fighting techniques that use punches, kicks, elbows, knees, or other impacts to injure or control an opponent. Strikes deliver force without requiring a hold, but leave openings at close range.
Human biomechanics: The study of how forces act on the human body and how the body produces movement. Force generation and joint limits constrain every strike, hold, and escape.
Close-quarters combat: Armed or unarmed fighting at short range, especially in confined spaces or during sudden contact. It describes the operational setting where hand-to-hand techniques may be needed.
Ranged combat: Fighting in which opponents attack primarily from a distance using projectiles or other long-range weapons. Distance and weapons, rather than bodily contact, define its central tactical problems.
Bayonet: A blade or spike designed to attach to the muzzle of a firearm for close combat. The bayonet extended infantry weapons into bodily fighting at close range.
Grappling: Close-contact fighting methods that use holds, takedowns, pins, or joint control. Grappling begins when opponents establish contact and try to control each other's movement.
Balance (ability): The ability to maintain or recover a body's stable position while standing or moving. Balance determines whether a fighter can resist a push, complete a takedown, or stay upright.
Military hand-to-hand combat: Close-range fighting techniques taught to military personnel for situations where weapons or distance are unavailable. Military instruction adapts bodily techniques to battlefield constraints and mission requirements.
Armed combat: Fighting in which participants use weapons as their primary means of attack or defense. Hand-to-hand combat can include handheld weapons, but does not require them.
Combatives training: Instruction in practical fighting methods for military, law-enforcement, or self-defense use. Organized training turns individual techniques into repeatable institutional practice.