Krav maga is an effective self-defense and fighting system that was developed in the 1950s by Imi Lichtenfeld. It is a technical combination of judo, karate, aikido, wrestling, jujitsu and boxing. Krav maga is a Hebrew word that translates as “contact combat”.
Imi Lichtenfeld first used this defense technique when defending the Jewish against the fascist group in Czechoslovakia. After he migrated to Israel, he further developed the defense technique for the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) and Israeli security forces when he was named the Chief Instructor of Physical Fitness. This is where he introduced the now known Krav maga self-defense. Although this technique started in Israel it is a well-known technique worldwide now.
The philosophy of the technique is to avoid any conflict and quickly de-escalate the situation without harming yourself. It is more to self-defense than to show off fighting skills. Here are some principles of this beautiful fighting technique.
1) Neutralizing the threat
Basically its goal is to neutralize the attacker or disarm them without hurting ourselves.
2) Keep it simple
The technique will be used as soon as possible by blocking, holding and striking the attacker.
3) Simultaneous attack and defense
The biggest difference between this technique from others is the use of attack and defense mechanisms simultaneously. For example, if the attacker goes to your eye, we deflect and at the same time goes to his throat or groin. This offensive and the defensive combination will neutralize the threat immediately.
4) Continuous motion
Also known as Retzev in Hebrew, is a continuous response to counterattacks where we work from instinct and react with more punches and kicks.
5) Use of any object
This technique teaches us to use any objects that we can reach to neutralize the threat.
6) Weapon defense
Teaches how to defend against an armed attacker.
7) Focus on the body’s soft tissues and vulnerable point
One of the main principles of this technique is hitting the vital point of the body to neutralize the attacker. Some of the vital points are like throat, eyes, knee, ribs and groin.
8) Subduing technique
Teaches many grabs and joint lock techniques to subdue the attacker.
Krav maga is open to civilians of all level age and no experience is needed as you will learn all the techniques of defending and responding to attacks under stress.
Practical Wisdom