Combatives Grappling in the National Capital Region

Combatives is a life-saving military skillset that is designed to increase the survivability of the soldier in high threat, high risk environments under life and death circumstances and is considered to be any engagement with an aggressor at ranges less than 25m. Combatives Grappling is the non-striking, hand-to-hand fight therein. This differs from Combat Sports and Mixed Martial Arts through the use of a ruleset which discourages passivity and encourages aggressiveness to promote both combativeness under stress and duress, as well as the development of muscle memory that can be incorporated into the striking aspects of combatives, including weapon retention and disarms. All of this is reinforced through a mantra of Close-Dominate-Finish.  

Who is it for?

Everyone is invited to participate in Combatives Grappling training sessions in the NCR. All are welcome including those who are curious but have never tried any grappling/combat sports or martial arts, as training is adapted to the group’s skill levels with each session.

What are the benefits?

The benefits of Combatives Grappling are numerous. Even if you never find yourself in a hand-to-hand combat situation, the very act of training Combatives Grappling could improve an individual’s:

• Cardiovascular fitness;
• Isometric, concentric, eccentric, and explosive muscle strength/power;
• Physical literacy, proprioception, and coordination;
• Stress management and relief;
• Mood; 
• Problem-solving skills;
• Humility and self-confidence;
• Mindfulness; and
• Overall physical and military readiness.

If you are a manager or member of the chain of command, encouraging your team to participate in Combatives training can cultivate:

• Military ethos and warrior spirit;
• Interpersonal trust;
• Camaraderie; and
• Teamwork.

What do I need to participate?

Standard athletic wear is suitable for beginners. Zippers and other hard implements are to be avoided for safety reasons. Mouthguards and fitted clothing are recommended to lower risk of body parts becoming accidentally caught in loose clothing. For CAF members, 1 Dental Unit offers free mouth guard fittings.

Okay, I’m in! How do I start?

Registration can be done for individual training sessions via http://psp.mil.ca from a DWAN computer. Training takes place at the following locations: