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Esoteric Combat Training Methods

No training method can be widely taught if it accurately reflects the realities of self defence. For in training one must have respect and care for one's opponent. If students were to be routinely injured in training, students would quickly run out of training partners and teachers would quickly run out of students.

This is why some aspect of real combat is always omitted or modified in practical training.
One may change the speed, direction, power, distance, intent or targeting of attacks in order to reduce risk.

This is good in that it allows students to train more safely.

Unfortunately, it raises a dilemma for the teacher. How can the attacks be made truly realistic without endangering the safety of the student or the teacher. How can one avoid teaching the students to defend against attacks which are not real.

The solution involves a combination of special training methods and experienced teachers. It also requires students to be ready for the advanced training.

These training methods are considered esoteric primarily because only advanced students are capable of understanding them, and partly because they require one-on-one training with the instructor if they are to be safe and effective.