In the combat world, there are multiple different techniques that one might use. Each combat situation is different, so it’s good to know which type of combat to use in a certain situation. There are thousands of combat moves, but they generally can be narrowed down into more specific categories. Below are the top 5 hand-to-hand combat techniques that one should keep in mind if the situation happens to arise.

1)     Joint manipulation – there is large and small joint manipulation. Large joint manipulation occurs when you take a joint of your opponent and bend it in an unnatural position. The arm bar is one of the more popular large joint manipulations. Small joint manipulation is often overlooked yet effective.  An example of this is breaking your opponents fingers.

2)     Striking the soft spots – the throat, eyes, and bridge of the nose are considered the “soft spots.” Strinking these areas do not need increasing amounts of force to be effective. A quick jab to these areas can do enough to render your opponent weak and ready to takedown.

3)     Aim your punches to the pit of their stomach – A hit to the pit of the stomach, or the solar plexus, can knock the wind out of your opponent. This leaves your opponent gasping for air and basically useless.

4)     Knee and elbow strikes – These parts of the body are one of the most lethal if used properly. Using your knee to strike your opponents inner thigh will freeze them. A strike to the temple with your elbow has the potential to knock your opponent out in just one hit.

5)     Heel and palm strikes – these sorts of strikes usually come in the form of a surprise attack. These are used as quick, spur of the moment strikes that your opponent won’t have the time to react to.

The Russian martial art of systema combines these techniques with that of mental strength. It is important to be both physically and mentally prepared when engaging in hand-to-hand combat.