Krav Mag a Self Defence system that originated in Israel. It is the official tactical combat system of the Israeli Army. The name roughly translates to ‘Close Combat’ all Israeli Army Recruits including Women, receive basic training in Krav Maga.Krav Maga emphasis the use of the body’s instinctive reactions, the kind of moves the body makes under pressure. These instinctive moves evolved as basic survival skills. These moves operate below or consciousness so is the fastest response we can have, it’s techniques and counter assault moves on these instinctive responses meaning our self-defense response is the fastest it can be.
Female Krav Maga may well be the most suitable self-defense system for women, as it was developed by the Israeli Army which is one of the few armies that conscripts. Because of this, it developed it had a very strong emphasis on ensuring the techniques and moves were built from the ground up to be practical for female soldiers.
Is Krav Maga A Martial Art?
While in some ways the moves may look familiar Krav Maga differs from Traditional Martial arts in several key areas.
No Ritual
Many traditional martial arts are steeped in ancient traditions, ideas, and concepts whose times have long passed. Ideas such as repeated bowing, kneeling, and supplication of e student have no place in the system. It is important to note that it is a modern system built on modern principles and values and as such respect for your training partner instructor and the law are still paramount.
Training Focus
Training focuses on only one objective, ensuring your safety, So all training exercises, drills, and games are practical and based on real-world situations. There are no ‘fancy’ moves seen in many martial arts and movies.
Focus on Student
In many martial arts, the focus is on the instructor, they must be revered and called by names such as Sensei or Sifu. But in this system, the most important person in the class is the student. The instructor’s job is simple, teach the student how to protect themselves as fast as possible. The instructors are judged on one thing, how capable the students are.
Is There an Age Limit?
The System is designed for life or death situations, as a result, the defense techniques, training drills and are very adult. It should not be confused with sports-based martial arts which parents often seek to enroll their children in to build basic self-defense and confidence skills. In the general course participants must be over eighteen, however, exceptions can be made in particular circumstances.
Is it good for fitness?
Classes can be a great workout. The training philosophy is that being fit is part of your self-defense strategy. Classes generally begin with a ten to fifteen minutes warm-up followed by lots of practical exercises and drills, classes usually finish with a high-energy exercise designed to build the student’s ability to operate under pressure. All of this combines to make a Krav Maga class an ideal part of a fitness routine.
Krav Maga is a modern approach to martial arts for Self Defence and Fitness, it’s focus is to teach people how to protect themselves quickly in a professional environment and help with fitness.
