I was recently on the phone with a potential client, who was inquiring about Krav Maga training at my school. They expressed concerns about their physical ability to study the system, as they were (using their words) “ not in the best of shape”. They went on to say that “at my age” they would not be able to perform all the ballistic techniques. I later found out that their understanding of the system came from watching countless YouTube videos from would-be experts showcasing combatives that were meant to impress enough to get likes on social media.
The conversation really saddened me because the whole point of Krav Maga, as was defined by its creator, Imi Lichtenfeld, was to make self defense accessible to everyone who wished to learn it. As Imi once said:
“You do not change to fit Krav Maga. Krav Maga changes to fit you.”
The framework of Krav Maga assumes that the defender is the slower, weaker and smaller in the fight. Considering these disadvantages, the only way to win is to be the smarter! As a result, we strike tender targets, limit our kicks to below the waist and do just enough damage to ensure a hasty yet safe exit. We customize strategies that help students get to safety in 8 seconds or less.
Krav Maga Personal Safety has students who are in their 60s and 70s, with our oldest client being 84. We train people who have had joint replacements and many who have chronic physical limitations. The system allows for many defensive options during a violent encounter, so our mission is to equip each student with the best options that work for their particular size, shape and mobility.
