What is Krav Maga?

Krav Maga: (Contact Combat). Originally developed by Imi Lichtenfeld in 1948. It derived from a combination of techniques sourced from Boxing, Wrestling, Aikido, Judo, Jujitsu and Karate, along with realistic fight training. It is an enhanced fighting system utilised by the Israeli Military. An extraordinary hand to hand fighting system designed to equip ordinary men and women with the skills to protect themselves quickly and effectively.

Black and white photo of a man carrying another person on his back in an outdoor setting.

Black and white photo of a man with a mustache wearing a white robe, standing outdoors near a large tree, with foliage in the background.

Black and white photo of a man wearing a military uniform and a beret.

Imi Lichtenfeld
Founder of Krav Maga
(May 26, 1910 – January 9, 1998)
Imi Lichtenfeld, a skilled boxer and wrestler, first applied his expertise in the 1930s, defending Jewish communities against violent anti-Semitic groups. These real-world confrontations highlighted the limitations of sport-based techniques in life-threatening situations, prompting him to develop a practical system for real-life self-defence.
Upon returning to Czechoslovakia, Lichtenfeld organized and trained groups to protect Jewish neighborhoods. Through these experiences, he established key principles of Krav Maga: using natural, instinctive movements combined with immediate and decisive counterattacks. His approach emphasized efficiency — defending while attacking, and never committing both hands to a single defensive action.
In 1944, he began training elite Haganah and Palmach units in physical conditioning, knife defense, and close-quarters combat. His expertise led to his appointment as Chief Instructor for Physical Fitness and Krav Maga at the IDF’s School of Combat Fitness, where he served for nearly two decades.
Following his military career, Lichtenfeld adapted Krav Maga for civilian use, tailoring the system to be accessible, effective, and relevant for people of all backgrounds — including law enforcement, men, women, and youth — with the goal of empowering individuals to defend themselves with confidence and minimal harm.

Two men practicing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu on a sandy beach, with one holding the other in a grappling position while others watch and train in the background.

Four men in black suits, sunglasses, and earpieces conduct a tactical operation around a dark blue car, with two men inside aiming guns and one crouching at the door with a gun.

Two men practicing martial arts or self-defense techniques indoors, one man applying a chokehold on the other.

Modern Krav Maga
Evolution that matters
Krav Maga was originally developed for the Israeli military — a raw, no-nonsense system designed for soldiers who needed to defend themselves in life-or-death situations. But today, Krav Maga has evolved into a powerful self-defence method for civilians from all walks of life.
In modern times, Krav Maga addresses the real threats people face today — from street violence and muggings to harassment and unpredictable public situations. It focuses on instinctive movements, rapid response, and situational awareness. Unlike traditional martial arts, there's no emphasis on rituals or competition. Modern Krav Maga is all about practical survival — fast, efficient, and effective in real-world situations.
Classes today integrate not only physical techniques but also psychological training, legal awareness, and stress conditioning. It's not just about learning to fight — it's about learning to think, react, and stay safe under pressure. Modern Krav Maga empowers people with the confidence, fitness, and mindset needed to navigate a more unpredictable world.
Modern Krav Maga has retained its core principle: survival. But it's evolved to meet the needs of everyday people in a modern world. It’s not about tradition — it’s about transformation. Whether you’re looking to improve your confidence, get in shape, or protect yourself and your loved ones, modern Krav Maga is a practical, adaptable tool that helps you live with strength and awareness.

A person training in martial arts demonstrates a grappling technique on another person lying on the floor, with several onlookers in the background.

A man with short gray hair is holding a bottle of hand sanitizer and appears to be helping another man, who is leaning forward with his head down, place his hands on his head while the second man puts his arm across his chest, in an indoor setting.

Adapted with time
Changed for purpose
1. Purpose and Application
- Then: Originally created for military combat, with techniques suited to battlefield scenarios and trained soldiers.
- Now: Adapted for civilian use — focusing on self-defence in urban environments, personal safety, and de-escalation.
2. Training Methods
- Then: Intense, brutal, and focused on preparing for armed combat or war-like situations.
- Now: Still intense, but more structured for long-term development. Incorporates scenario-based training relevant to everyday life — like public transport, nightclubs, or domestic settings.
3. Accessibility
- Then: Taught exclusively to military personnel and select law enforcement.
- Now: Open to anyone — men, women, teens, and professionals. Classes are beginner-friendly and suitable for all fitness levels.
4. Focus Areas
- Then: Primarily physical — with less emphasis on mental or legal aspects.
- Now: A more complete system — combining situational awareness, stress management, the psychology of violence, and understanding the law around self-defence.
5. Community & Culture
- Then: A closed, military environment with a high-pressure, high-risk culture.
- Now: A supportive community that values personal growth, accountability, and mutual respect. No egos, no aggression — just real training for real people.
Krav Maga has transformed from a military-only combat system into a modern, adaptable self-defence method for everyday people. While its roots remain tactical and practical, today's Krav Maga is more inclusive, holistic, and designed for real-world civilian safety.