Enhancing Close Quarters Battle Performance—The Effect of a Compact Training on the Tactical Performance and Stress Response of Non-Specialized and Special Forces

Close Quarters Battle (CQB) is a highly challenging and relevant ability, especially with the increasing frequency of urban operations. Evaluating the impact of CQB training on performance and stress response can inform effective training approaches for different training levels. This study assessed the effects of a compact CQB training program on the tactical performance and physiological stress responses of police special forces and soldiers. A sample of N = 35 participants (n = 18 police special forces) conducted a CQB training and a pre- and post-CQB performance test (standardized eye-tracking and video-based evaluation by two experts). The stress response was measured during (heart rate), before, and after CQB (salivary αlpha-amylase and cortisol samples). The results indicated that the training enhanced the performance of specialized and non-specialized forces, particularly evident in tactical behavior, while response time and gaze behavior did not improve. Stress responses decreased post-training, and a positive correlation was found between the anticipatory stress response and pre-training performance. A CQB compact training proved effective in performance enhancement and stress reduction, with gaze behavior indicating in-depth CQB expertise. Moreover, the results indicated that a heightened anticipatory stress response enhances performance. These insights support the development of CQB training programs tailored for both novices and experts, using tactical behavior, weapon handling, gaze behavior, and response time as evaluation metrics. Gaze behavior, in particular, proved to be a reliable indicator of CQB mastery and can be leveraged for personnel selection and training assessments.