WHEN KRAV MAGA TRAINING TURNS TO REAL-LIFE THREAT AND SELF-DEFENCE

People who watch our Krav Maga training videos or our Krav Maga demonstrations sometimes react quite critically. Often criticism comes from a misunderstanding of our proposal and of the principles that govern our discipline.

In our federation, the FEKM, we do not claim or pretend that a movement or technique is ever “easy”. We do however insist that it is simple – as simple as possible. Easy and simple are not the same thing. Neither do we claim that a taught technique must be executed in all and any circumstances. On the contrary. Krav Maga training requires its student to have a deep awareness of the risks and the real dangers present.

If it is only to hand over a phone, a credit card, car keys the threat does not justify the enormous risk of physical engagement.

Our first advice is always escape and even discussion and acceptance of requests by the aggressor when related to our belongings. If it is only to hand over a phone, a credit card, car keys the threat does not justify the enormous risk of physical engagement.

RECOGNISING AND RESPONDING TO PHYSICAL THREAT

But if the threat and the danger are inevitable, with imminent and verified endangerment of our physical integrity, the physical safety of our companions (spouse, child, parent, friend) or even simply another person who we deem to be in in serious difficulty, then the only solution becomes this response; Krav Maga is undoubtedly one of the disciplines that offers you the lowest risk, most appropriate and most efficient skills with which to respond.

So, when the time comes, the decision to act belongs to whoever chooses to take it.

So, when the time comes, the decision to act belongs to whoever chooses to take it. The decision is taken with knowledge of our discipline’s means, with knowledge of our own courage and our ability to manage emotions – including fear – which will be present regardless of the Kravist’s level of practice and preparation.

PREPARING FOR WORST CASE SELF-DEFENCE

The best way to prepare for these worst-case situations?

  • Practice. Practice again. And again.
  • Do not underestimate any opponent and do not ignore any situation – particularly the most unfavourable!
  • Stay open minded and actively critical
  • Above all, remain humble
  • Attempt to practice with the greatest relaxation possible and with utmost honesty with regard to yourself and to the situation preset
  • Question yourself and your practice every day…

Krav Maga training is an adventure that never stops.

Welcome to Krav Maga FEKM.

Yann Veillerant
Technical Director FEKM-UK

Simon Pither

Simon was one of the first two British Black Belts in the European Federation of Krav Maga (FEKM) and was instrumental in the creation of the UK Sector of the FEKM which was officially inaugurated in January 2015.