A military workout

Learning to defend yourself is one of the most worthwhile ways of keeping in shape – so try Krav Maga, writes Aimee Stanton

Kicking someone in the groin might not immediately make you think of a workout, but learning Krav Maga as a form of self-defence will get your body in shape, as well as potentially save your life.

What is Krav Maga?

Krav Maga is the mother of all self-defence. Initially developed by champion boxer, wrestler and Judo and Ju-Jitsu expert Imi Sde-Or as a means of defence from anti-Semitic riots in Budapest in the 1930s, Imi’s form of street fighting would evolve into the globally recognised contact combat system of Krav Maga,

After fleeing Hungary in the 1940s, it was in Israel that Imi started working as Chief Instructor for the newly-formed Israeli Defence Force to teach soldiers how to protect themselves with simple self defence techniques which involve no weaponry, equipment or uniforms.

Krav Maga is now used by military and law enforcement across the world (the FBI and the US Marines both practice the contact combat system), as well as ordinary citizens who want to improve their fitness whilst learning about self defence.

What will I learn?

As Krav Maga has its origins in street fighting it will teach you how to defend and protect yourself from a real life attack. You will learn: how to disarm an attacker; how to protect yourself against knives, guns and other weapsons; how to defend yourself against chokes, bear hugs, grabs etc; and how to defend yourself against multiple attackers. It’s quick and easy to learn too.

How will I benefit?

Besides improving your self defence skills Krav Maga will improve your balance and co-ordination. It’s a full body workout too and everything from your arms to your legs will feel the workout. The contact combat also has unexpected mental benefits too such as helping you focus, concentrate and helping you tune into your environment.

It is just for men?

Jennifer Lopez, Angelina Jolie and Jessica Chastain have all reportedly been trained in Krav Maga. Although these movie stars may have initally learned Krav Maga for film roles, it’s a skill which they can take from the set to the street.

Unfortunately many women (as well as men) don’t feel safe walking down a dark street at night, so by learning this elite self defence skill you can expect your confidence to grow knowing you could floor an armed attacker. There’s no age limit to learn either so whether you’re eight or 80, male or female, anyone can learn how to take down an attacker by learning Krav Maga.

Where can I learn?

The good news is you don’t have to sign up to the Israeli Defence Force to learn Krav Maga. To find your nearest class, visit www.kravmagaglobal-uk.com