Factors of Combat

Endurance. Endurance is the ability to inflict or absorb damage over time without a decline in physical abilities. It may be increased by physical training. The ability to absorb punishment without injury may increase ones endurance. Padding such as muscle, fat, or clothing offers protection from injury. Larger, heavier people can absorb more punishment than smaller ones. However, the added weight of the padding may reduce endurance. Attitude may affect endurance. Some people simply refuse to feel pain while other cringe at the slightest pain. Drugs or alcohol may affect endurance. They may dull pain but they may also reduce endurance.

Mindset. Mindset is your confidence, desire to win, and your belief that you are capable of winning. You also need to know your opponent's mindset. Body language may tell you something about the mindset of your opponent. The way the opponent stands, whether his or her shoulders slump, or whether he or she makes eye contact are all good clues. The eyes may express a person's inner unexpressed emotions, which may differ from the outer expressed emotions. Most people have not been taught how to conceal their emotions. By studying people through simple observation, you may learn to read an opponent's mindset. If you are observant, you may perceive the anger, hatred, or fear of your opponent. You may be able to determine whether an opponent thinks he or she can defeat you. Remember, the eyes are windows to the soul.