Combat Assimilation Practice

Beyond technical, tactical and strategic training, combat training requires combat assimilation practice. In assimilation practice, replicate as closely as possible the conditions under which combat might take place. If your training is for competition, secure the necessary equipment and people to help you create a competition-type atmosphere. If you train for spontaneous combat, such as self-protection, try to estimate the climate of such combat and recreate it within reason.

Safety is the only limitation on what is practiced in assimilation training. If your anticipated combat is full contact, practice full contact fighting within the confines of safety rules and equipment. For full contact fighting, prepare
yourself to deal with the pain and fatigue you will experience. Both fatigue and pain can cause unexpected reactions if you are not familiar with them. Practice training through similar levels of discomfort to prepare.

When you practice assimilation drills, fight with the same mental and physical disposition you would in a real confrontation. Practice reaching and maintaining your focus under pressure. If you feel comfortable with assimilation training, move to over-assimilation training.

In over-assimilation, the realities of combat are exaggerated to make training more challenging. Fight against bigger, stronger, and more experienced opponents. Train with a weight vest or other physical impediment 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.