Combat Strategy

by Hanho, Turtle Press, 1992 (202 pgs)

Subtitled, Junsado, the Way of the Warrior, this is one of the best martial arts books available. Although I disagree with Hanho on a few minor points, I would recommend his book without hesitation. He was able to take a number of relatively complex subjects (i.e.: "factors affecting combat," esoteric techniques, "blocking vs. parrying," "cut-in" defenses, principals of combination attacks, and combat range) and, with the aid of numerous photographs, diagrams, and tables, present them in a clear and concise manner. As you may know, the vast majority of martial artists who’ve attempted similar undertakings have failed miserably. Combat Strategy is an impressive piece of work (be advised, however, that a related book by another author has the same title — and I haven’t yet had opportunity to peruse it).

This book is divided into five sections. Part One, Combat Strategy, serves as a 10 page introduction to the subject. Part Two, Fundamentals, discusses (in great detail) the topics of stance, footwork, and the various methods of attack. Part Three, Strategy and Tactics, covers many important concepts (although it seems directed more towards competition than combat). Part Four, Beyond Tactics, delves into intermediate-level psychological conditioning. And Part Five, The Way of the Warrior, concludes the book with a bit of Hanho’s personal philosophy.

This book was obviously written by a master of the art. It is easy to follow, the concepts are sound, the techniques are not rigid, and the photographs are incredible. This book was put together (editing and paste-up) quite well, and it is obvious that a great deal of time was devoted to doing so — the end result being easily read and comprehensible. This information will prove invaluable to any martial arts student, and even most instructors could learn something new. Whether you choose to study classical or contemporary martial arts, this volume definitely belongs in your library.

A few brief excerpts from this masterful work follow:

"There is only one way to gain experience and that is to repeatedly engage in your target activity. If this is not possible, engage in the most realistic simulations possible. Experience a variety of opponent types and styles to test the validity of your skills and discover new approaches. The more experienced you are, the more insightful you can be in developing a successful strategy." (p. 17)

"In over-assimilation, the realities of combat are exaggerated to make training more challenging. Fight against bigger, stronger, and more experienced opponents. Train with weights or other physical impediments to your movement. Give yourself disadvantages such as using only one type of skill or bodily weapon. Over-assimilation uses anything that exceeds the normal stresses of combat." (p. 167)

"Mental endurance will give you an aura of toughness and aggressiveness that is intimidating to opponents. There is no opponent more frightening than the one who attacks consistently, no matter what you do. He is impervious to your attacks and seems determined to fight until he prevails. This is the result of strong mental endurance." (p. 169)

"Your opponent will be feeling many of the same emotions you are. This is often difficult to imagine, but it is true. If your opponent looks cool and focused, it is not because he is not scared and nervous, but because he has learned to control his emotions and understands his optimal arousal level.

To take advantage of your opponent’s emotional state, consider how to intensify his fear. Look for ways to destroy his controlled psychological state. Many fighters try to scare their opponents by appearing menacing, vicious or tough.

When the conflict begins, attack to the most painful and sensitive targets. Demoralize him by increasing his fear of injury and pain. Take every physical and psychological advantage to defeat him. Refuse to be affected by his outward appearance or scare tactics. Look straight at him with a calm, confident stare and never give him the edge." (p. 174)

"Instinct is the sum of information collected by your senses that is not readily obvious to your conscious mind. It often produces a "feeling" that something is wrong or right without a logical explanation. When you are uncertain what to do next or how to handle an opponent, rely on your gut feelings. The more experience you have in combat, the more reliable your instincts will be." (p. 16)

"Attack when the opponent is preparing his attack. His mind is occupied with what to do next and he is not fully prepared to attack or defend.

Attack when the opponent steps forward or backward. The key is to attack before his stepping foot touches the ground. While one foot is in the air, the balance of the body is easily upset. . .

Attack just after your opponent completes an attacking movement. Every muscle needs a brief period of recovery between exertions. Take advantage of this by attacking as soon as the movement is finished." (pp. 150-51)

"A group’s weakness is the individuals who comprise it because the depend on the power of superior size. If one element of the group gives up the fight, the other elements begin to question their involvement as well . . . Another weakness of groups is that they are often made up of a series of weak elements that have banded together for strength. They do not work well alone or when divided . . . The quickest way to demoralize a group is to attack the leader." (pp. 180-81)

As I’ve said before, this is one of the best martial arts books available (other noteworthy books include: The Filipino Martial Arts by Dan Inosanto, War with Empty Hands by Lennox Cramer, and Mental Training of a Warrior by John La Tourrette), and it is highly recommended without reservation. If you are a martial artist, regardless of your chosen style, this volume needs to be included in your library.