Mastering the Trenches: How a New Obstacle Revolutionizes Sparring and Strategy in Combat Sports
- Grandmaster Victor Teran
- Jan 2
- 3 min read
Combat sports constantly evolve, pushing athletes to sharpen their skills and adapt to new challenges. The Trenches will change the way fighters train and compete by introducing a unique obstacle that tests their tactical awareness and physical abilities. Developed by Grandmaster Victor Teran, a U.S. Marine Corps combat veteran, this half-inclined wall obstacle brings a new dimension to sparring, emphasizing realistic combat scenarios and 360-degree awareness.
This post explores what The Trenches are, how they influence fight dynamics, and why they matter for athletes looking to elevate their game. Whether you are a fighter, coach, or fan, understanding this innovation offers insight into the future of combat sports.
What Are The Trenches and Why They Matter
The Trenches is a new obstacle designed as a matted area on the ground with walls angled at 45 degrees. This setup mimics a half-inclined wall that fighters can use during continuous sparring sessions. The name draws from military terminology, where trenches serve as defensive and offensive positions in warfare. Grandmaster Victor Teran, who has firsthand experience in close combat during wartime, from his time in the U.S. Marine Corps, launched this obstacle to simulate realistic fighting conditions.
The design encourages fighters to think beyond traditional ring movement. It challenges them to manage space differently, use the walls for tactical advantage, and maintain awareness of their surroundings from all angles. This obstacle is not just a physical barrier but a tool to develop fight IQ, strategic thinking, and adaptability.
How The Trenches Change Sparring Dynamics
Traditional sparring usually takes place on a flat mat or ring, where fighters move freely in all directions. The Trenches introduce a new element by forcing athletes to interact with the angled walls. This interaction affects how fighters approach offense and defense.
Space Management
Fighters must learn to use the walls to control distance, trap opponents, or escape pressure. The angled surface creates opportunities for creative movement and positioning.
Tactical Movement
Jumping off the wall for kicks or punches becomes a viable strategy. This adds verticality and unpredictability to attacks, making fights more dynamic.
Realistic Combat Scenarios
When an opponent is pressed against the wall, it does not count as being grounded. Fighters can exploit this for up to five seconds before the referee intervenes, simulating real-life situations where athletes use environmental features to their advantage.
Continuous Action
The rules promote fast-paced rounds with no timeouts. This keeps fighters engaged and tests their endurance and decision-making under pressure.
Rules That Shape Competition
The Trenches come with specific rules designed to maintain fairness and intensity:
Single Elimination Format
Most divisions use single elimination with 2-minute rounds and no timeouts.
Double Elimination for Small Divisions
If fewer than five athletes compete in a division, the format switches to double elimination with the same round length and no timeouts.
Wall Usage
Fighters can jump off the wall to deliver kicks and punches. If an opponent is against the wall, it does not count as being grounded, allowing the fighter to capitalize on this position for five seconds before separation. During the separation, the center referee will stop time and direct all corner referees to award an additional five points to the hovering fighter for demonstrating control over opposing opponent while on the wall prior to the separation.
Fighters will only receive the additional five points if they are actively striking and demonstrating control over their opponent. These rules encourage and promote discipline, strategic thinking and tactical engagement while maintaining safety and continuity.
Benefits for Fighters and Coaches
The Trenches offer several advantages for athletes and trainers looking to improve performance:
Enhanced Fight IQ
Fighters develop better awareness of their environment and learn to use obstacles strategically.
Improved Tactical Skills
Training with The Trenches encourages creative attacks and defenses, preparing athletes for unpredictable situations.
Physical Conditioning
The obstacle demands strength, balance, and agility, contributing to overall fitness.
Mental Toughness
Continuous rounds without timeouts push fighters to maintain focus and composure under pressure.
Coaches can incorporate The Trenches into training to simulate real combat scenarios, helping athletes prepare for diverse challenges in competition.
Where to Experience The Trenches
Athletes interested in testing their skills with The Trenches can participate in the 2026 upcoming events such as the Spartan Cup Championship and the All-American Championship held in Arvada, Colorado. These competitions showcase the obstacle in action and provide a platform for fighters to demonstrate their mastery.
Staying updated on these events offers opportunities to witness how The Trenches influence fight strategy and athlete development.
Final Thoughts on The Trenches
Utilizing the 45-dregree inclined wall provides distinctive advantage for striking, enabling athletes to demonstrate their physical endurance and skills. It establishes an offense and defense platform, rendering it an unpredictable tool to gain an advantage over opponents.
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