Sizing People up For Combatives in Real-Time

As a covert operative, your ability to quickly and accurately assess a person’s fighting capabilities can be crucial to your safety and mission success. In the world of intelligence and law enforcement, sizing up a potential opponent in a near-instant can mean the difference between life and death.

This intel provides you a practical guideline on how to size up an individual’s fighting capabilities and power potential just by looking at them for a moment while in close proximity.

      Observing Physical Attributes

When attempting to gauge a person’s fighting capabilities, start by observing their most obvious physical attributes. The following factors can provide valuable insights:

• Body Composition:   Look for indicators of strength and fitness, such as muscle definition, overall build and posture. A well-toned, athletic individual may have greater physical prowess and stamina than someone who appears out of shape.

• Scars and Injuries:   Visible scars or old injuries can suggest prior involvement in physical altercations or training. Pay particular attention to calloused knuckles or cauliflower ears, which can indicate experience in martial arts or tactical professions.

      Assessing Movement and Coordination

An individual’s movement and coordination can reveal valuable information about their fighting capabilities as predict their intent and potential imminent attack:

• Balance and Agility:   Observe how the person moves and carries themselves. Someone who walks with (authentic) confidence, maintains good posture and appears agile may be more likely to have a solid foundation in martial arts or combat training.

      Recognizing Behavioral Cues

Behavioral cues can also provide insight into a person’s fighting capabilities as well as predict their intent and potential imminent attack:

• Reaction to Confrontation:   Observe how the individual responds to confrontation or perceived threats. Someone who remains calm and poised under pressure is more likely to have experience in high-stress situations, which can translate to combat proficiency.

Sizing up an individual’s fighting capabilities in a near-instant is an essential skill for on and off the field, operative or civilian. By observing physical attributes, assessing movement and coordination, and recognizing behavioral cues, you can quickly gauge a person’s potential prowess in a physical altercation. However, it’s all estimation and guesswork that should only be used a part of an overall strategy.

Keep in mind that appearances can be deceiving, and even the most unassuming individual may possess hidden combat skills. It’s in most cases better to overestimate an opponent than to underestimate them. Always prioritize your safety and follow your instincts when assessing potential opponents in the field.