The Complete Game
Kicking Range
This is the range in which a potential attacker can reach you, but only with his leg. Typically, this distance measures 4-5 feet in distance from you. In the event an attacker enters this range, then you must be alert to potential kicks. You should also be ready to fire kicks in the event of an attack. In this range, Muay Thai has proven itself to be the most effective system in the world. The pros of this range is that your attacker cannot harm you easily (except with a gun, of course) because there is considerable distance. Also, you will have a chance to defend yourself against multiple attackers if you are competent in Muay Thai. The cons of this range is that it is difficult to maintain and is not always available if you are in an elevator or a small bathroom, for example. Nevertheless, if you are competent in Muay Thai, you should be able to control the situation in this range.
Punching Range
This is the range in which a potential attacker can reach you with his/her fists. Typically, this distance measures 2-3 feet in distance from you. In the event an attacker enters this range, then you must be alert to both potential kicks and punches. You must also be alert to the potential takedown. Wrestlers have an ability to shoot from this range to take you down to the ground. In this range, Boxing, Wrestling, and Muay Thai have proven themselves to be the most effective systems in the world. The pros of this range are that you can strike your attacker and if he is not equipped to defend, you can be safe. The cons are that you could end up being the one struck. This range is very dangerous for both the attacker and the defender. However, if you are competent in Muay Thai, Boxing, or Wrestling, then you should be able to control the situation in this range.
Clinch Range
This is the range in which a potential attacker can reach you with knees, elbows, and has the ability to take you down with ease. Typically, this distance measures 0-2 feet in distance. In the event an attacker enters this range, you must be alert to potential knees, elbows, punches, and the takedown. In this range, Muay Thai, Wrestling, and BJJ have proven themselves to be the most effective systems in the world. The pros of this range are that you can cause maximum damage to your attacker because elbows and knees are some of the deadliest strikes in unarmed combat. The con is that you are equally vulnerable to strikes and to getting taken down to the ground. If you are competent in either BJJ, Muay Thai, or Wrestling, then you should be able to control the situation in this range.
Ground Range
This is the range where you and your attacker have fallen to the ground and are no longer on your feet standing. Typically, there is no distance between you and your attacker as both of you are rolling on the ground. In this range, you must be well versed in submissions like armbars, chokes, and other joint manipulations. In this range, BJJ and Wrestling have proven themselves to be the most effective systems in the world. The pros of this situation are that you are fighting one-on-one with your attacker. The con is that you are very vulnerable to other attackers and also to potential weapons like a knife. BJJ and Wrestling are two of the most effective arts in the world for one-on-one combat. However, they both have limitations in a two-on-one or three-on-one situation. In a self defense situation in a crowded bar or club, it is not advisable to go to the ground.
At Evolve Mixed Martial Arts, we are big believers in cross-training across the different martial arts. It is good for your fitness and physical agility. Above all, it makes you a better martial artist and better equipped to deal with an uncertain world.
Evolve Mixed Martial Arts® is Asia's premier brand of MMA academies. Evolve ranks among the best academies in the world for Muay Thai, BJJ, and MMA.
