combats

Combat is a form of conflict in which physical force is used by opposing parties with the aim of neutralizing or defeating an opponent. It occurs in military and law enforcement operations, in personal self-defense situations, and in various organized activities such as sports and staged performances.

It can be categorized as armed combat, which employs weapons such as firearms, blades, or explosive devices; unarmed or close-quarters combat, which relies on strikes, grappling, holds, and submissions; and scripted or choreographed combat used in theatre, film, and stage training.

Combat sports, including boxing, fencing, wrestling, judo, taekwondo, karate, and mixed martial arts, apply rules and safety equipment to allow competition under controlled conditions. Staged combat focuses on realism and storytelling rather than harm, while personal self-defense emphasizes escape and safety within legal limits.

Historically, combat evolved from melee engagements to the use of ranged weapons and artillery, and in the modern era to combined arms warfare and asymmetric conflicts. The development of discipline, tactics, and technology continually reshapes how combat is conducted and regulated.

Training in combat disciplines generally emphasizes physical conditioning, technique, situational awareness, and risk management. Sports and military organizations regulate competition through rules, scoring systems, protective gear, and refereeing to minimize harm while maintaining effectiveness and fairness.

Ethical and legal considerations include rules of engagement, proportionality, and the rights of combatants and civilians under international law. Public safety, humanitarian protections, and legal frameworks influence how combat is taught, practiced, and portrayed in culture.