Krav Maga is a simple and effective method of self-defense. It is based upon practical applications and designed to aid the practitioner in its ultimate goal–staying alive. With that in mind, here are some things about Krav Maga everyone should know.
- Its Name Speaks Volumes
Literally translated, the term Krav Maga means “contact combat,” and it is commonly referred to as “The Art of Staying Alive.” The discipline itself combines movements adapted from a variety of self-defense and martial arts techniques, including modern boxing, karate, street fighting, ancient Chinese martial arts, and mixed martial arts (MMA), among others. This aspect of the fighting style could attribute to its rising popularity.
- It Is the Official Self-Defense Discipline of the Israeli Army or Defense Forces (IDF)
While that detail may seem intimidating, its techniques are designed to be simple and easy to execute. As such, the movements are primarily instinctual and based on reflex, which makes this method of defense easier to learn and apply when faced with imminent danger.
- Nearly Anyone Can Use It
Due to its simple philosophy and instinctual applications, Krav Maga can be learned and executed by nearly anyone regardless of their gender, physical size, age, strength, or fitness level. In many ways, this approach could be considered a “one-size-fits-all” defense discipline.
This is because it does not matter whether the practitioner is young or old, male or female, physically fit or sedentary, agile or mobility-impaired, the techniques involved can be adapted to accommodate the user as well as built around their strengths. Moreover, the practice of Krav Maga and the training involved can help bolster the user’s fitness level, compensate for their weaknesses, and improve their overall well-being.
- The Efficacy of Krav Maga Lies in Its Fluidity and Duality
The reason this fighting style is so effective is its reliance on reality-based training techniques, which focus on the main objective of neutralizing the assailant(s) as quickly as possible. Not only are the techniques easy to learn and apply, but there are no strict rules or practices in Krav Maga. Instead, it is very fluid and reactionary in nature. Furthermore, practitioners are encouraged to execute both offensive and defensive movements simultaneously to protect themselves from harm.
These aspects of Krav Maga serve as a derivation from many other self-defense disciplines and highlight why it is such an effective as well as simple form of self-preservation.