Franklyn Hartkamp, Eyal Yanilov - Krav Maga Israeli Self Defense System (Contact Combat) - Techniques, Training Curriculum, Exam Requirements

Following a list of techniques learned during the Krav Maga training curriculum of instructor Franklyn Hartkamp (Sportschool HSW) and required to master at the exams. The course material has been updated to level Graduate 1, as my current skill level is Practitioner 5 and my next exam is Graduate 1 grade.

Note that the Krav Maga system and thus also its training techniques are constantly improved and sharpened for greater effectiveness. Therefore please consult your local Krav Maga instructor for the latest improvements and advancements to each any of these techniques.

Thanks to Miroslov Capka (P5, Sportschool HSW) who contributed the clear descriptions of several techniques.

Stance

1. Neutral Stance (P1)
2. Fighting Stance (P1)

Movement

1. Forward, Back, Left, Right (P1)
2. Shadow Boxing (P1)
3. Movement while on the Ground (P1)
4. Bobbing and Weaving (P2)
5. Slipping Punches (P2)
6. Shadow Boxing (punches, elbows, kicks, knees) (P2)

Attacks

Punches

1. Straight Punch (P1)

2. Straight Punch – left/right combination (P1)

   Can be done at various speeds (G1).

   1. Unconnected: First punch with one arm, pause, then punch with other arm.
   2. Broken: First punch with one arm, then punch with other arm.
   3. Regular: First punch with one arm, and as you hit the target with your fist, punch with other arm.
   4. Shattered: Punch with one arm immediately followed by the other arm.
   5. Simultaneous: Punch with both arms at the same time (optionally include a kick too).
3. Palm Heel Strike (P1)
4. Eye Strike/Throat Strike (P1)
5. Straight Punch with an Advance (P1)
6. Straight Punch with a Retreat (P1)
7. Straight Punch Low (P1)
8. Hammer-fist Strikes (all directions) (P1)
9. Elbows (1 - 7) (P1)
10. Hook Punch (P2)
11. Uppercut Punch (P2)
12. Focus Mitt Combinations (punches and elbows) (P2)
13. Chops, Inside and Outside (P4)
14. Ridge Hand/Mouth of Hand Punches (P4)
15. Swingout Hammerfist-Element of Surprise (P4)
16. Left Jab – Overhead right punch in combination (P5)

• When punching, remember to recoil and keep defending with the other hand.
• Straight punch at 45 degrees angle and hit with the first two knuckles.
• With hammer punches remember to drop into the hit with the whole body.
• Hook punches; remember to twist into the punch using the torso and legs, thumb is pointing up.

Kicks

1. Front Kick (P1)
2. Front Kick - Vertical Target (P1)
3. Round Kick (vertical, diagonal, horizontal) (P1)
4. Front Kick - Defensive (P2)
5. Side Kick (P2)
6. Side Kick with Advance (P2)
7. Back Kick (P2)
8. Back Kick with Advance (P2)
9. Kick Combinations (front, round, side, and back) (P2)
10. Uppercut Back Kick (short) (P2)
11. Front Kick with Advance (fighting and neutral stance) (P2)
12. Defensive Back Kick with a Spin (P3)
13. Offensive Back Kick (P3)
14. Offensive Back Kick with a Spin (P3)
15. Heel Kick (P3)
16. Inside Slap Kick (P3)
17. Outside Slap Kick (P3)
18. Axe Kick (P4)
19. Outside Slap Kick with a Spin (P4)
20. Heel Kick with a Spin (P4)
21. Sweep – Leg Sweep with Round Kick (P4)
22. Front Kick/Round Kick with switching move (P5)
23. Two front kicks with a switch (P5)
24. Outside slap kick and front kick with a switch (P5)
25. Two straight knees with a switch (P5)
26. Two back kicks with a switch (P5)

• When kicking, remember to simultaneously defend with the hands.
• Twist hips into low kicks for more power.
• There are two types of high kicks:
  1. Diagonally straight up into the head;
  2. Raise the knee, twist hips and extend shin horizontally thereby kicking the target.
• Brazilian kick: fake low kick, then twist the lower leg upward and kick the high target.
• Stomping kick: raise knee, then extend leg and kick straight into the chest/abdomen.
• Skipping kick: skip once, before the leg hits the target touchdown with the other foot.
• Side kicks:
  1. Lift leg and kick while leaning back;
  2. Twist the leg a little more inward and, as it were, kicking upward into the abdomen;
  3. Cross: first step over/behind your leading foot and then kick (for targets further away);
  4. Skip: skip sideways, the back foot, as it were, knocking the leading foot out of its place and then proceed with the kick (this builds greater momentum).
• Back kick:
  1. Look over your shoulder and kick a low target, effectively its a low sidekick to the rear;
  2. Bend over, looking under your arm;
  3. Kick back and up with the heel leading (horse kick) to a higher target.
• Scissor Kick: The scissor kick used as a powerful high kick straight into the opponent's chin or face. Raise one knee, then jump up with the other leg and quickly kick upward with that leg into the target. The raising knee leads the momentum of the body upward. Land in fighting stance, ready for more strikes.

Knees

1. Straight forward knee (P1)
2. Diagonal round knee (P1)
3. Inward angle knee (P1)

Combinations

1. Front kick to groin and hammer-fist down (P1)
2. Front kick to groin and straight punch (P1)
3. Side Kick or Back Kick/Hammer-fist (P2)

Chokes

Headlocks

1. Headlock from the Side (P1)
2. Reverse Headlock (Standing) (P3)

Grabs

1. Wrist Grab (P1)
2. Wrist Grab – 2 Hands Held High (P1)
3. Wrist Grab – 2 Hands Held Down (P1)
4. Wrist Grab – Being held with 2 hands (P1)
5. Hair-grab, Front (P3)
6. Hair-grab, Side (Impending Knee) (P3)
7. Hair-grab, Side (No Knee) (P3)
8. Hair-grab, Behind or Opposite Side (P3)

• C-Grip: Grab the object or target between your fingers and thumb.
• Hook-Grab: The thumb is pressed against your fingers, making your hand into a large flat hook.

Bear-hugs

1. Bear-hug From the Front with Arms Free (space) (P2)
2. Bear-hug From the Front with Arms Free (no space) (P2)
3. Bear-hug From the Front with Arms Caught (space) (P2)
4. Bear-hug From the Front with Arms Caught (no space) (P2)
5. Bear-hug From Behind with Arms Free (space) (P2)
6. Bear-hug From Behind with Arms Caught (space) (P2)
7. Bear-hug From Behind with Arms Caught (no space) (P2)
8. Bear-hug from Behind (Leverage on Finger) (P3)
9. Bear-hug, Lifting – from Behind (P3)
10. Bear-hug, Lifting – from the Front (P3)

Head-butt

1. Head-butt Forward (P3)
2. Head-butt Upward (P3)
3. Head-butt Side (bear-hug context) (P3)
4. Head-butt Back (bear-hug context) (P3)

Sweeps

1. Sweep, Forward Kick (P3)
2. Sweep, Heel Kick (P3)

Stick

Knife

Ways of Holding the Knife

• Oriental hold - holding the knife at your hip's height pointing upwards (like holding a sword).
• Ice pick hold - holding the knife at your head's height pointing downwards.
• Straight hold - holding the knife at your chest's height pointing forward.
• Foreward slash hold - holding the knife at your chest's height pointing to your right (thereby exposing your palm).
• Backward slash hold - holding the knife at your chest's height pointing to your left (thus back of the hand exposed).

Ways of Stabbing with the Knife

• Underhand stab - stabbing upwards, starting with the oriental hold.
• Overhead stab - stabbing downwards, starting with the ice pick hold.
• Straight stab - stabbing forwards, starting with the straight hold.
• Foreward slash - horizontal slash from right to left (moving direction of your palm), starting from foreward slash hold.
• Backward slash - horizontal slash from left to right (moving direction of the back of the hand), starting from backward slash hold.

Handgun

1. Gun from the Front (P4)
2. Gun from the Side of the Head (P4)
3. Gun from the Side, in Front of the Arm (touching) (P4)
4. Gun from the Front, Pushing into Stomach (P4)
5. Gun from the Side, Behind the Arm (P4)
6. Gun from Behind (touching) (P4)

Throws

Full Nelson

Defenses

Always keep going, never stop halfway through an exercise.

Always scan the area and RUN AWAY! after performing a defensive move.

Punches

1. 360 outside Defenses - positions (P1)
2. 360 outside defenses - moving attacks (P1)
3. Inside defenses against straight punches (P1)
4. Inside defenses against low straight punches (P1)
5. Inside and 360 defenses against punches (P1)
6. Inside Defense and Counter v. Left Punch (P2)
7. Inside Defense and Counter v. Left Punch Using Left Hand (P2)
8. Inside Defense and Counter v. Right Punch (2 counters) (P2)
9. Inside Defense and Counter v. Right Punch (1 counter) (P2)
10. Defense v. Hook Punch (extended) (P2)
11. Defense v. Uppercut Punch (P2)
12. Outside Defenses (1-5) (P2)
13. 360 Outside Defenses with counterattacks (P2)
14. Inside Defense v. Left/Right Punch (P3)
15. Inside Defense v. Left/Right Punch (Lean Back and Trap) (P3)
16. Inside Defense v. Left/Right Punch (using forward hand) (P3)
17. Outside Defense and Counter v. Right Punch (Punching defense) (P3)

Defenses Against Straight Punch to the Chin

1. Simultaneous

   Divert punch with front hand, simultaneously stepping forward past the punch and also punching underneath the attacker's arm into the chin area.

2. One-Fifth Rithm

   Divert and 'pull' the punch downwards whilst countering over the attacker's arm into the face area.

3. Lean Back & Kick

   Saw it too late? Divert the punch downwards diagonally and simultaneously kick attacker in the groin.

4. Left-Left

   Deflect the punch with a vertical left forearm, then with a hammer-punch hit the face area. Follow up with a right hook or right straight punch.

5. From Outlet Stance

   Horizontal forearm 'chops' upward, thereby deflecting the punch. Remember your body defense and then counterattack, stepping out of the attacker's line.

6. Left and Right and Hook Combo Defense

   You are in fighting stance and are being attacked with a 3-punch combo. The first thing to do is to deflect the first two punches with your leading arm. This arm is the closest to the attack, therefore, it is the quickest. Deflect the left punch outward, the right punch inward (or vice versa). Do not forget your body defense! Finally the hook can be stopped with an outward facing vertical forearm, fist clenched. Place your ear to your shoulder for more protection. Give counterattacks when possible - usually during or just after the hook punch.

   If you are too late to spot a punch and deflect it, you can use the third option in Straight Punches to the Chin; lean back and kick the groin.

Defense Against Straight Low Punches

• From Fighting Stance

  As the punch comes, drop your elbow and forearm 'chopping' the punch and deflecting out of your 'line'. Also, sidestep out of the line of attack, away from the punch. Your forearm always moves inside - never deflect outward.

• From Neutral Stance

  Similar to low punch from the side. Twist your arm and torso and deflect the punch to the inside, while sidestepping and continuing with the counterattacks.

Roundhouse punch (hook) defense

Extend arm as in the 360 defense but position it more outwards of the head creating the most possible distance between your head and the fist. Do this with a closed fist for more strength in forearm this way. Simultaneously counter-attack. Remember to put your ear to your shoulder for more cover.

Defense Against Punches from the Side

• While facing forward

  Block with 360 defense while turning (into the fighting stance) towards the attackers and giving simultaneous counter-punches. Or lean to the side and give sidekicks to the attacker's leg/knee.

• While facing sideways

  Also called outlet stance for outside defense against punches from the side. Closest arm is diagonally placed across your torso, hand in near the hip. Far arm is placed diagonally upward and the hand is near the shoulder. The closest arm extends upwards with the palm facing you/out/the attacker and blocks/deflects the punch, meanwhile your torso turns towards the attacker and you counter-punch. Move around the attacker while counterattacking, scan the area, run away.

• High Elbow

  The punch is coming high and scares you a little. The natural reaction is to raise your arms to your face. As the punch comes (from the left) your left elbow will go up and over the attacker's arm pushing it down far enough for you to strike with a horizontal hammer punch to the face and sidestep. Follow up with a right 'hook' to finish the job. Then run away.

• Low Punch from the side

  Low forearm: Your stance is pretty much neutral, your arms are hanging down. As you spot the punch, your forearm starts to twist towards your front and your torso should twist with it. This will deflect the punch out in front of you. Your arm should arch and swing outward. Simultaneously, your body defense will be to bend away from the punch and sidestep 'backwards' to the attacker's flank/side. Then your arm should be horizontal and give and elbow strike to the attacker's face, following the path of his arm. Then a hammer punch with the same arm. Then proceed with multiple counterattacks while moving around and behind the attacker. Then scan the area, and run away.

Kicks

1. Outside Stabbing Defense v. Front Kick (P2)
2. Plucking Defense v. Low/Medium Front Kick (P2)
3. Reflexive Defense v. Front Kick to groin (P2)
4. Defense v. High Front Kick (P2)
5. Defense v. Low Round Kick (using shin) (P2)
6. Defense v. Low Round Kick (absorbing) (P2)
7. Defense v. Front Kick (redirect) (P2)
8. Kick Defense v. Front Kick (Side Step & Counter) (P3)
9. Kick Defense v. Front Kick (Switch Kick) (P3)
10. Kick Defense v. High Round Kick (Reflexive) (P3)
11. Kick Defense v. High Round Kick (Fighting Stance – 2 contact points) (P3)
12. Kick Defense v. High Round Kick (Fighting Stance – 3 contact points) (P3)
13. Kick Defense v. High Round Kick (360 Defense #3) (P3)
14. Kick Defense v. High Round Kick (360 Defense #4) (P3)
15. General Defense v. Medium to High Attacks (round kick, heel kick, etc.) (P4)
16. Sliding Defense v. High Round Kick (P4)
17. Defense v. High Side Kick (P4)
18. Defense v. Low Side Kick (P4)
19. Defense v. Low to Medium Side Kick (Plucking) (P4)
20. Defense v. Side Kick (sideways to attacker) (P4)
21. Sliding Defense v. Spinning Heel Kick (P4)
22. Kick Defense v. Spinning Heel Kick (P4)
23. Defense against back kicks (P5)

Defenses Against Kick to the Groin

Spot the kick early and block it by kicking the knee or upper leg.

1. Kick with front foot with heel pointing outward;
2. Kick with front foot with heel pointing inward;
3. Step and kick with back foot with heel pointing inward.

Stabbing defense against front kick

Stab forward with your first while stepping diagonal in order to deflect the front kick. At the same time deliver a punch to the face with other arm. Remember to use your body defense to get out of line of the front kick movement. Finish with multiple counter attacks and escape.

Regular Defense Against Stomping Kick to the Chest

The attacker is in fighting stance and steps forward, clearly indicating he will kick you straight in the groin or chest.

Scooping: arm extended downwards; deflect the kick in its early stage inward, exposing the dead side of the attacker.

1. Attacker kicks with right foot

   You scoop with left hand and step behind him, then 'check' him with the right hand on the elbow and proceed with strikes to the back of the head and finish off with a kick to the groin from behind or a low kick to the knee.

2. Attacker kicks with left foot

   You scoop with right hand and step behind him, then 'check' him with the left hand on the elbow and proceed with strikes to the back of the head and finish off with kicks to the groin or lower leg.

Defense Against Low Kick

Raise the knee and twist it outwards towards the attack and absorb the kick. Low kicks to the thigh can sometimes surprise; then you can flex the thigh muscles and take a harder hit without much effect.

Defenses Against Roundhouse Kick

1. Defend with both arms; raise forearms vertically and block the kick, turning to the kick, then proceed with a sidekick to the leg area or hammer punches to the face.
2. Raise corresponding knee and extend forearm vertically, bring elbow to knee, block the kick and simultaneously spring forward and counter attack.

Defenses Against High Roundhouse Kick

1. One Arm One Leg

   Raise your corresponding forearm vertically, facing outward. Bring your ear to your shoulder for extra protection. You can give a simultaneous counterattack by kicking that attacker in the groin. Then continue forward to finish him off. Alternatively, if you are unsure about the height of the kick, you can bring your knee up to your protecting arm to increase your 'shield' size, then spring forward with a straight punch into the face.

2. Sidestep

   Raise your forearm as in option 1, while sidestepping and forward from the kick (block with left arm, step out with right foot). The kick will have much less effect on your arm. When you are moving, you have to be low. Then sweep the attacker's other leg with a kick (with your back foot) while running away.

3. Both Arms

   Raise both forearms vertically (hands in a hook pose) while stepping forward 'into' the attacker and turning 90 degrees towards the kick - your forearms should be preferably on either side of the attacker's knee. From this position, turn into the attacker and give a quick hammer punch to the face, followed by a left/right hook. Proceed with maybe a few more strikes, then scan the area and run away.

Defenses Against Side Kicks (Skipping or Cross)

The kick is coming towards the abdomen. Scoop the kick with 'hooked hands' and step forward and behind, diverting the kick and ending up in the deadspot of the attacker. Then proceed with strikes to the back of the head and kicks to the legs or groin.

Knees

Chokes

1. Choke from the Front (1 - hand pluck) (P1)
2. Choke from the Front (2 - hand pluck) (P1)
3. Choke from Behind (P1)
4. Choke from the Side (P1)
5. Choke from the Front with a Push (P1)
6. Choke from Behind with a Push (P1)
7. Choke From the Front Against the Wall (P2)
8. Choke From Behind Against the Wall (P2)
9. Choke From Behind with a Pull (P2)

Releases from Choke

• Choke from Front

  Use hook hands to release the choke (move horizontally), simultaneously knee into the groin, uppercut, kick to the knee, run away.

• Choke from Side

  Far hand hooks the choke down to your chest while the closer arm strikes the groin, then the chin, then kick the knee, run away.

• Choke from Rear

  Both hands reach back and grab the base of the thumbs and release the choke while stepping back diagonally positioning you for a strike to the groin with one hand, then an elbow into the chin, step forward and release the remaining hand and kick the knee; run away.

• Choke from Front While being Pushed

  Stomp down one foot for stability and to stop the movement. Then raise one arm up completely; bicep to the ear. Twist the torso to release the choke, then bring the arm down over the attacker's arm and vertically elbow-strike the attacker in the face, push the body away, and run.

  NOTE: your stance after the stomp should be perpendicular to the attacker's stance.

• Choke from Behind While being Pushed

  Stomp down one foot for stability and to stop the movement. Then raise one arm up completely; bicep to the ear. Twist the torso to release the choke. Then step forward and grab the attacker's shoulder with both hands and proceed with knee strikes to the stomach. Finish with a heavy downward hammer punch on the back of the neck.

• Choke from Behind While being Pulled

  Grab one hand with a hook-grab as near as possible to the thumb and roll it off your neck, releasing the choke. Meanwhile, you should turn to that side to release the other hand and swing your opposite leg up and around - this will turn you around towards the attacker by way of momentum - going with the pull. Then roll your free hand down your forearm, catching the attacker's hand in the process (kotegaeshi effect). This will twist the attacker's arm into a lock leaving you free to kick him in the chest or head.

Releases from Headlock

• Windpipe

  Hook downward with both hands, reach high at first and try to poke the eyes, and secure the choking arm on your chest, then turn under the arm, thereby twisting it. Then proceed with knee strikes to the abdomen and groin. Then scan the area and push the body away. Run.

• Artery

  Reach first with the corresponding hand as the with the choker's arm. Grab the hand from the side, pull down (overturning it) and then grab with the far arm as well for power. Secure the arm on you chest and proceed as with the 'Windpipe' choke.

• From the Side

  As you are being pulled down; reach over the attacker's head grabbing the eyes and nose while slapping the attacker's groin too. Then pull the head back in a arching movement and finally while pushing the head straight down proceed with hammer punches to the throat. Push the body away. Run.

• From the Front (The Guillotine)

  The attacker holds your head in a lock with his right arm, this means you have to grab his arm with your left arm (the mirrored arm). As you grab the choking arm, your other arm slice straight down to the groin. Your torso should twist for more effect. Turn your nose into the attacker's side to clear your airways. Then, the slicing arm (left arm) while move vertically up and give an elbow strike to the attacker's chin. Then, look for the soft tissue beneath the adam's apple with your thumb and push the attacker off you and away. Finish him off with a kick to the groin or the chest.

  Alternate Solution: First give a few quick open palm strikes to the groin. Simultaneously, grab the choking arm with one arm, followed by both arms to keep it locked and secure and step diagonally out and under the attacker's arm. Then proceed with hammer punches to the temple or back of the head. Follow up with a high kick to the head or chest. Push the body away. Run.

• Headlock from Behind While being Pulled

  The first thing to do is to go for the eyes when twisting around! Use your hip to bounce and bump off the attacker's body and swivel around to the direction of the pull. This will put you in the position of 'Headlock from the Side'. Proceed as normal from here. Remember to keep a good and solid stance! You do not want to end up on the floor.

Headlocks

1. Headlock from the Side (P1)
2. Headlock From Behind - bar arm (P2)
3. Headlock From Behind - carotid (P2)
4. Throwing defenses against headlock from behind (attacker jumping on defender) (P5)
5. Defense against headlock while being spun inwards (P5)
6. Defense against side headlock with pressure lifting chin and weight being put down on neck (P5)

Grabs

1. Wrist Release – Same Side Hand (elbow to elbow) (P1)
2. Wrist Release – Opposite Hand (hitchhike out) (P1)
3. Wrist Release – 2 Hands Held High (P1)
4. Wrist Release – 2 Hands Held Down (P1)
5. Wrist Release – Being held with 2 hands (P1)
6. Wrist Release with 2 attackers - each pulling defender's arms to side (P2)
7. Wrist Release with 3 attackers - 2 pulling defender's arms to side and 1 approaching (P2)

Releases from Wrist Grab

• One or both wrists (one grab each arm)

  Twist and pivot the arm out of the grab by turning your forearm towards yourself and moving the elbow towards the attacker. Always go through the opening between the fingers.

• One wrist with both arms (two grabs on single arm)

  Grab your own fist between the attacker's arms ands pull. With the caught arm pivot out in the direction which you are pulling.

Releases from Shirt Grab

• Regular

  Reach over the attacker's hand and grab the pinky-side of the palm. Start twisting it over and support the movement with the other hand. When twisted about 75%, put pressure on the wrist and push the attacker's arm down. Proceed to push the body away or give knee strikes or low kicks.

• Exposed thumb

  If the thumb is exposed, grab the hand and push your thumb over the attacker's thumb and press it into the hand. Then push the attacker's arm away.

• Two-Handed Shirt Grab

  Attacker grabs your shirt with both hands and threatens you.

  Soft tactic: With your left or right hand, reach over the attacker's arm and grab the fleshy part of the palm under the pinky finger. Then twist the hand inward towards your chest while bringing your other hand to the attacker's hand for security. Lock the attacker's wrist, the pinky-side should be point up, then push your chin down and the attacker's wrist. The attacker should feel pain in the wrist joint and immediately go to the ground.

  Hard tactic: Start striking the attacker in the head/torso multiple times with punches until he lets go or goes to the ground.

Releases from Hair Grab

• Defense against hair grab

  The opponent can either grab your hair from front, side or back.

  • For the defense against front you put both your hands on the opponents knuckles, and push them firmly into your skull. At the same time you duck down while rapidly moving backwards, which will inflict pain to the opponent's grabbing hand. As you move backwards and notice the grab weakens, slide it off your head and get away from the opponent.
  • For the side and back defense, you quickly bend forward while maintaining a low guard with your nearest arm, in order to protect yourself from any knee or leg kicks. At the same time quickly slap the opponent with your other hand in the crotch and in the face repeatedly. Make sure you move inward towards the opponent, make a small turn to get closer if needed. When the opponent's grab weakens, give a few additional counter attacks and flee the scene.

Releases from Arm Grab

• Defense against arm grab

  Several variations exist to arm grabs, either with one or two grabbing hands on one or both of your lower arms. Main tactic is to move your elbow towards side of opponent, while at the same time twist your arm such that the small wrist part can be easily removed from the opponent's grab.

  • When your arm is firmly held by two hands, put your other hand on top of the grabbed hand. Then pull your whole arm in to unscrew the opponent's arm lock.
  • When both your arms are grabbed from the front (either low or high), make an inward cross with your arms. Just slide both your hands over eachother and avoid hitting yourself in the face. The hand/arm movement is circular, as to unwind the grab.
  • When both your arms are grabbed from the back, curl your right arm to the right side of your body, and make an axis turn with your arm so you can easily release your right arm from the opponent's grab. Next turn to your other side (where your left arm is still caugth) and use the single arm defense to finish.

Bear-hugs

1. Bear-hug From the Front with Arms Free (space) (P2)
2. Bear-hug From the Front with Arms Free (no space) (P2)
3. Bear-hug From the Front with Arms Caught (space) (P2)
4. Bear-hug From the Front with Arms Caught (no space) (P2)
5. Bear-hug From Behind with Arms Free (space) (P2)
6. Bear-hug From Behind with Arms Caught (space) (P2)
7. Bear-hug From Behind with Arms Caught (no space) (P2)

Releases from Bear Hug

Important Note: Remember to drop your weight and bend over when possible to prevent the attacker from lifting you off the ground!

• From behind

  • Both arms caught (low): Swivel knees from side to side, whilst striking the groin of the attacker, on the third one pull arm out of the bear hug and give elbow strikes to the head. Turn around, grab the neck and arm and use attacker as human shield, scan, run away.
  • Both arms caught (high): Grab the hands with both of your hands and secure them on your chest, then move your elbows up releasing the hug. Step diagonally backward and under the armpit. Proceed with knee strikes to the abdomen.
  • Arms free: Twisting your upper body; give elbow strikes to the head, 3 times should suffice, on the last one keep striking while turning around, then knee the attacker in the abdomen/groin, grab by the neck, use as shield, scan the area, run away.

• From the front

  • Both arms caught (low): Drop your weight and simultaneously use both hands to push into the attacker's groin, then grab the shoulder blades and give knee strikes to the groin or abdomen. As the hug releases, pull the arm backward and out - elbow leads. Then give an elbow strike upwards into the face, then a hammer punch downward. Then scan the area, pull and turn the attacker around your body and then run away.
  • Both arms caught (high): The above techniques can work. Also, you can give knee strikes to the groin and head butts to the temple to release the bear hug. Proceed with multiple counterattacks, then scan the area, then run.

  • Arms free: Step back for leverage, put your thumbs in the attacker's eyes and swivel his head backward, then proceed with hammer strikes to the chin and throat. Then push the body away and run.

    If the attacker's face is buried in your chest and you have no access to put your thumbs in his eyes, you can do the following. If the attacker's face is on your right side, reach over with your left hand and grab the nose/eye area and roll the head over your chest, twisting the neck and exposing the attacker's throat. Hammer punch the throat, maybe a few more strikes or kicks and run away.

• While being lifted

  TODO

Sweeps

Sweeps

• Front Sweep (Right)

  Standing in front of your opponent (fighting stance), skip diagonally to the right towards your opponent's left leg, turn your body to face in the same direction as your opponent, swinging your right leg around and down towards the heel. Simultaneously, push into the opponent's left shoulder with the palm of your hand. Remember to keep the arm stretched out, and not bent. This will bring him off-balance allowing the sweep to take him down.

• Big Sweep (Right)

  Standing in front of your opponent (fighting stance), step diagonally left and forward, putting you next to your opponent. Swing and lock your right heel into his right heel, simultaneously, pushing with your right hand into the opponent's right shoulder. Swing your leg back and push forward, bringing the opponent off-balance and on the ground.

Stick

1. Stick, Overhead Swing (P4)
2. Stick, Overhead Swing – off angle/dead side (1 step) (P4)
3. Stick, Overhead Swing – off angle/dead side (2 steps) (P4)
4. Stick Defense, Baseball Bat Swing (P4)
5. Defending long stick or bayonet in stabbing attack – dead side (P5)
6. Defending long stick or bayonet in stabbing attack – live side (P5)

Defense Against Stick Attack

• From Above (One Handed)

  As the attacker moves towards you, step towards him - leading foot should mirror the attacker attacking arm. As you step forward raise your leading arm up and towards the attack, fully extended and bicep to your ear. Simultaneously giving counterattacks to the face. Then put your arm over the stick-hand locking it under your arm, give counterattacks. Then twist your body disarming the attacker, leaving the stick in your armpit. Take the stick, strike the attacker's face. Scan the area, run away.

• From Above (Two Handed)

  Raise your right arm, bicep to your ear, and sidestep forward to the left. The stick will go down along your body. Then turn towards the stick, its position is checked with your right hand, and bring down your left hand to grab the attacker's forearm. Secure the forearm in that place while giving punches to the face and temple with your right fist. Then disarm by grabbing the stick with your right hand, twisting it down and and turning it upwards out of the grip of the attacker. Give one last strike to the face with the stick, scan the area, run away.

Knife

1. Kick Defense v. Downward Stab (P4)
2. Kick Defense v. Straight Stab (P4)
3. Kick Defense v. Straight Stab (attacker sideways) (P4)
4. Kick Defense v. Straight Stab (bail out) (P4)
5. Kick Defense v. Upward Stab (P4)
6. Hand Defenses (general 360 and Inside Defenses) (P4)
7. Hand defense against a straight stab – dead side (P5)
8. Hand defense against straight stab - live side (P5)
9. Hand defense against upward stab – dead side (P5)
10. Hand defense against upward stab – live side (P5)
11. Reflexive defenses against straight, upward, and regular stabs (P5)
12. Hand defenses against various slashing attacks (P5)
13. Kick defenses against slashing attacks (P5)

Outside Knife Attacks/Defenses - Near

Use 360 defenses and simultaneous counterattacks - remember 90 degree angle on arms, block near to the wrist on opponent.

Knife Attacks/Defenses - Far

Opponent is coming towards you with knife attack - move towards opponent and use the stomping kick to stop the movement and create distance between you and attacker.

Knife Threat - about 30cm

• In front of you

  Slap attacker's hand on the outside of the hand, away from you, simultaneously kicking the groin and leaning back (body defense), then turn on your foot and run away. NOTE: always use the fastest hand i.e. the one closest to the threat.

• Behind you

  First look where the threat is, then chop with the blade part of the forearm to the attacker's wrist, simultaneously kicking the knee or groin (back kick with body defense), then run.

Knife Threat - throat

• In front of you

  Firstly, play the crying game. Then, with a C-grip, grab the knife-hand while pulling back the head. Push the hand downwards to the attacker's thigh and lock there while giving counter-punches to the temple and face. Push away, then run.

• From behind

  Grab the knife-hand with both hands, pull it down to chest, secure it, then twist underneath the attacker's arm. Then push the knife into the attacker's chest while the arm is still locked.

Defenses Against Knife Attacks

• Defense Against Underhand Stab
  As soon as the opponent starts his stab and thus swinging his knife towards you from below, you immediately trust forward into the attacker. Make a 360 defense with the closest hand to the knife while simultaneously attacking with a fist punch towards your opponent's face. Now the opponent wants to retreat the knife and you make use of that by sweeping his arm behind him with your defending arm. Keep the arm with the knife behind the opponent's body (to prevent a second stab attack) and give some more blows to the face and frontal body with your free hand. When the opponent starts feeling heavy you pull back his arm while stepping out yourself. This is easiest done when you lock the attacking arm with your hand bend over his wrist. As you pulled back the arm with the knife, add your other hand for extra control. Now proceed with cavalier (disarm) or some leg kicks to the chest until the knife is released.

• Defense Against Overhead Stab
  As soon as the opponent starts his stab and thus swinging his knife towards you from above, you immediately trust forward into the attacker. Make a 360 defense with the closest hand to the knife while simultaneously attacking with a fist punch towards your opponent's face. Now before the opponent wants to retreat you lock in the arm by bending your hand over his wrist (lower arm). Give some more punches to the face while pulling the arm with the knife towards your chest, effectively locking the opponent's arm completely. Be sure to grab and hold halfway on the arm, so the hand with the knife cannot be used against you. More blows to the face, head and back of the head and then slide your free arm over the opponent's arm that is holding the knife. With two hands at the opponent's wrist, stretch out both your arms and hold his arm in front of you, away from your body. Step to the dead side of the opponent while keeping both your arms stretched, and you will make the opponent bend forward with his dangerous arm straightened backwards. The wrist will be locked and you can proceed with cavalier (disarm) or some leg kicks to the chest or knee until the knife is released.

• Inside Defense Against Straight Knife Attack (to the Stomach)
  Keep your palms facing up and towards the attacker (a general defensive posture). When the stabbing attack comes, slap it away, keeping your fingers spread, then sidestep diagonally away from the knife and give counterattacks to the head.

• Outside Defense Against Straight Knife Attack (to the Stomach)
  Keep your palms facing the attacker and fingers pointing upwards. When the attack comes, scoop the attack away, sidestep diagonally away from the attack, and give counterattacks to the head.

Defense against impending knife threat

TODO

Handgun

1. Gun from the Front (P4)
2. Gun from the Side of the Head (P4)
3. Gun from the Side, in Front of the Arm (touching) (P4)
4. Gun from the Front, Pushing into Stomach (P4)
5. Gun from the Side, Behind the Arm (P4)
6. Gun from Behind (touching) (P4)
7. Defending against threat from the rear at a distance (P5)
8. Basic defenses – front, side, rear – when gun is held off-center and/or with two hands (P5)

Cavaliers

1. Cavalier #1 (P4)
2. Cavalier #2 (P4)
3. Cavalier #3 (P4)
4. Cavalier #4 (P4)

Throws

1. "Machine-Gun Take-Down" (P5)
2. One arm shoulder throw (P5)
3. Hip roll (P5)
4. Face to face with partner-falling back-one foot at their waist and throw over your head (P5)

Throws and Takedowns

• Machine Gun Takedown (Right)

  Approach opponent, squat down and put your crotch into the opponent's leg, at the same time, reach with left arm under the crotch and up to the belly, with the right hand, reach and grab around the front of the waistline. Proceed to push crotch into the leg and raising the opponent off the ground with the legs. Keep your back straight - do not lift with your back! As soon as the opponent's feet leave the ground, tilt him over to the right onto his face. Then, on the ground place right forearm on the back of the neck and the left forearm on the shoulder blade. Forming an upper triangle shape.

• Take-down with Shoulder-push

  From the Front: The attacker is standing facing you. Step towards the attacker, generating some momentum. Push your shoulder into the attacker's abdomen while grabbing the legs just under the knees. While pushing forward, pull the legs up and out - creating space for further counter-attacks.

  From the Rear: The attacker is standing facing away from you. Step towards the attacker, generate some momentum. Push your shoulder into the attacker's butt and simultaneously grab the legs just beneath the knees. Then pull the legs and push with your shoulder at the same time. Pull the legs outward to create a more sever fall for the attacker, also creating space for further counter-attacks.

Full Nelson

1. Release using leverage on fingers (P5)
2. Release using throw/flip forward (P5)
3. Release using sweep (P5)

Release from Full Nelson

The Full Nelson is when the attacker comes from behind, sticks his arms underneath yours and locks his hands behind your neck.

Firstly, poke your fingers behind you to maybe get the attacker's eyes. Then, grab the fingers or thumbs of the attacker and wriggle them free from each other, and hold on to them. Then, drop your weight and give elbow strikes to the attacker's head, twisting your torso left and right for more effect. On the third elbow, release the fingers, take a step forward, lean forward and give a back kick to the knee or groin. Scan the area, run away.

Third-Party Protection

Falls

1. Fall Break - back (P2)
2. Fall Break - side (P2)
3. High Fall Break (Back, Side) (P3)
4. Roll, Forward (Regular, High, Diving) (P3)
5. Forward Roll/Back Fall Break (P3)
6. Forward Roll/Backward Roll (P3)
7. Roll, Side (P3)
8. Side Roll/Fall Break (P3)

Soft Break Fall

Absorb the fall by going from extended arms to flexed arms. Turn your head to the side!

Ground

1. Movement (P1)
2. Kicks on the Ground (P1)
3. Getting Up (P1)
4. Stripping/Clearing Foot Grab (P1)
5. Mounted, Defense v. Punches (buck hips) (P2)
6. Mounted, Trap and Roll (P2)
7. Choke While Mounted (P2)
8. Headlock or Close Choke while Mounted (P2)
9. Ground-fighting: Escaped From Guard (Elbows) (P2)
10. Ground-fighting: Kick Off From Guard (P2)
11. Choke from the Side (P3)
12. Headlock from the Side (Basic Position) (P3)
13. Headlock from the Side (Weight Forward, Leg Wrap) (P3)
14. Headlock from the Side (Weight Forward, with Space) (P3)
15. Headlock from the Side (Weight Back: Shoulder Pull or Leg Sweep) (P3)
16. Headlock from Behind (P3)
17. Arm Bar (P3)
18. Guard Escape (ankle lock) (P3)
19. Guard Escape (stacking) (P3)
20. Ground-fighting: Attacker Straddling, Pinning Wrists (P4)
21. Ground-fighting: Triangle Choke (P4)

Ground techniques

• Choke while Sitting Next to You

  One hand will hook and release the choke while the other hand simultaneously thrusts three fingers into the attacker's throat. This is quickly followed by a knee into the armpit while securing the choking hand on your chest, then bridge and extend your body to stretch the attacker. As soon as the lock is achieved, proceed with kicks with the other foot into the face. Two to three kicks are sufficient, then kick the body away, roll in the other direction, scan the area, run away.

• Choke while Sitting On You

  • Far: Hook and release the choke with both hands, simultaneously raising your head. Meanwhile, your feet should have moved to your butt and bridge your body slightly to one side. This will throw the attacker off and you can roll over. While rolling, strike the kidneys and face, then throw the attacker's leg off and over your head - use your hip to bump the leg, it takes less energy than simply using your arm. Finish with a kick to the head. Scan the area, run away.
  • Medium Distance: In this case, the attacker's arms are not fully stretched and he is medium close to your face. Grab one hand and roll it out of the choke and secure it there on your chest. Simultaneously, twist your torso to that side, putting your bicep to your ear with your other arm ('washing your face'). This will break the choke of the other hand. Then bring your outstretched arm up and hammer punch the attacker's face. Together with the hammer punch, bridge and roll over onto the attacker. Proceed with strikes to the face and groin. Throw the leg away, stand up, scan the area, run away.
  • Close to You: In this case, the attacker's head is next to yours. Reach over his head and grab whatever you can, roll his head over your chest and keep it secure there. Simultaneously, release the choke with the other hand. Then, proceed with bridging to the 'weak' side. Give strikes to the face and groin, throw leg away, stand up, run away.

• Headlock - One Arm Caught

  Start with shrimping movement. Turn towards the attacker. Hit the back of the head, if necessary, to get a reaction - the attacker moves his head back a little. This allows you to grab the face and pull back. Then put your calf on the side of the head and lock the head between your legs (calves!!) and turn over like a crocodile. Your hands should be on the attacker's shoulders. Spread your legs out and push your body weight up (all the weight on the shoulders), then proceed with one or two knee strikes to the head. Scan the area, run away.

• Headlock - Arms free

  Shrimp and move your body to make your body and the attacker's body into one line. Grab the attacker's face (not the mouth!) pull the head back and twist the neck away from your head. Then roll over with the attacker (crocodile roll) and end up with your hands on the neck or shoulders. Your body should be extended in push up position. Then push your weight up and give knee strikes to the head. Scan the area, and run away.

• Defense against choke on the ground while sitting on you

  Varying distance is added: low, medium and high. You always make a bridge movement to diagonally launch the opponent from your body, while trying to block the opponent hands from finding a balanced position. You follow the rolling body and end with one foot flat and other knee on the floor, on top of the opponent and attacking from between his legs. You can use the closest arm to control the opponent, for example push the arm into the opponents chest or neck. Next you get rid of the free leg by pushing it around your body with your free arm. Press yourself up and get out.

  • When attacked at low distance (opponents head close to your head) you diagonally grab his forehead with the arm closest to his head. This may need some practising as you have to go around the back of his head with your arm. At the same time you pull the other hand from your troat. Next start punching in his side with your other arm and continue with the bridge movement etc.
  • When attacked at medium distance you use the swiping movement with one arm sliding near your ear, in order to release the choking grab. Next you continue with lowering your swiping arm, so the opponent's grabbing hand is further removed from your troat. Now you are ideally aligned to hit with your elbow and then your fist. From here on do the bridge movement etc.
  • When attacked from a high distance (can also be combined with opponent attacking you with punches) you need to control the choking hands. Pull the hands from your troat while initiating the bridge movement. This will look like you open up your chest while raising your crotch. If the opponent was hitting you with punches, first control the punching arms by grabbing them and firmly locking them against your upper chest. Continue as normal.

• Defense Against Straight Punches While Sitting On You

  The attacker will punch at your face at a pretty high rhythm. It will cause a little panic. The most important thing is not to get hit. So, use inside defenses to deflect the first few punches. When the right opportunity presents itself, hook grab one of the fists of the attacker and secure it on your chest but as close as possible to the attacker's thigh. Try and hook the other hand as well. Then, bridge yourself and throw the attacker to the side where he has no support. If you have only one hand caught, throw him to that side. Then roll over and try to press and secure one arm/elbow over the attacker's head - this will prevent any strikes back to you. Strike the face and groin a few times, throw the leg around and off (use your hip strength to help with this), stand up, scan the area, run away.

Multiple Opponents (Fighting Games)

• 4-against-1 fighting techniques

  More attacks and more attack combinations are now delivered faster.

References

• kravmaga.com - Krav Maga Worldwide
• krav-maga.com - International Krav Maga Federation
• kravmaga.nl - Krav Maga in the Netherlands
• sportschoolhsw.nl - Hartkamp Sports and Wellness

Posted on 4th December 2010 by Quintus Hegie

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"Chance favors the prepared mind..."

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