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PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

Purpose of the Course:


This course is designed to give attendees deeper knowledge of the techniques
and teaching methodologies associated with Krav Maga Level One. The course
assumes the attendee is already familiar with the techniques through hands-on
training and through study of the videos available at www.kravmagaalliance.com.
During the 3-day course, we will improve and refine the attendee’s abilities, but
we will NOT teach the techniques from the beginning. Students who do not have
a basic understanding of the techniques should not attend.
As we refine the attendee’s understanding of the technique, we will focus on
teaching skills, building lesson plans, and other skills that help the attendee learn
to become an instructor.
The Level 1 certification focus on the following areas:

• Structure of an individual lesson

• Qualities of a good instructor


Manuals & Note Taking
Each student should come to the course with a copy of Complete Krav Maga by
Darren Levine & John Whitman. (Krav Maga For Beginners is recommended but
not required.)
Each student will be supplied with an additional manual containing lecture
materials and notes.
The Krav Maga Alliance program has a specific note-taking procedure specially
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designed to help with the attendee’s understanding of the techniques.


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The Cauldron
The first 2 hours of the first day consists of “The Cauldron.” This is the
attendee’s opportunity to prove they have:
1) the basic conditioning to be an instructor
2) the basic understanding of techniques to continue the course
The Cauldron is very intense, and consists of the following:

• Five 2-minute rounds of aggressive focus mitt work with basic punches
and elbows; one minute rest

• Three 2-minute rounds of aggressive striking with a tombstone pad:


straight punches, front kicks, round kicks, sprawls, and knees; 30 second
rest between rounds. In Round One, the attendee does (upon the
partner’s command) 1 left/right combination; 1 round kick; front kick; 1
sprawl-knee. In Round Two, the attendee does 2 successive techniques
(i.e., two in a row). During Round Three, the attendee does three. One
attendee does three successive rounds with only a 30 second break.

• High intensity performance of all techniques in Level One; for anyone


familiar with a Krav Maga level test, this will be similar.

Results
All attendees who can satisfactorily survive The Cauldron and complete the
program will receive a Certificate of Completion.
Candidates who display proficiency in teaching will receive an enhanced Bronze,
Silver, or Gold certificate.
Bronze = acceptable physical and teaching abilities
Silver = exceptional physical and teaching abilities
Gold = outstanding physical and teaching abilities
All results will be posted at www.kravmagaalliance.com. Attendees who would
like to improve their ranking will be provided opportunities to do so.
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DAY ONE
9am – 11am The Cauldron
11am – 12:00 Lecture: “Understanding Self Defense”
12:00 – 1:30pm Technique Review

• Stance & Movement

• Straight Punch

• Palm Heel Strike

• Eye Strike
• Front Kick

• Elbows

• Knees

• Round Kick
1:30 – 2:30 LUNCH
2:30 – 2:40 Lecture: “Teaching Template”
2:40 – 3:30 Mock Teaching #1
3:30 – 4:30 Technique Review

• Front Kick Vertical Target

• Hammerfist Punches
• Choke Front

• Choke Side

• Choke Behind
4:30 – 5:30 Lecture: “The Importance of Stages”
Lecture: “Qualities of A Great Instructor”
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5:30 – 6:30 Mock Teaching #2 (full lesson)


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Day Two
9:00 – 9:15am Lecture: “Principles of Warm Up”
Warm Up
9:15 – 9:40 DRILLS
9:40 – 11:00 Finish mock teaching from yesterday
11:00 – 12:00pm Technique Review

• Choke Front (1 Hand)

• Headlock from Behind

• Punches Moving Forward/Back

• Advancing Straight Punch

• Straight Punch Low

• 360 Defense

• Inside Defense

• Inside Defense v. Low Straight


12:00 – 1:00 LUNCH
1:00 - 1:45pm Lecture: “Tools Used To Teach”
1:45 - 2:30pm Mock Teaching #3
2:30 – 4:00pm Technique Review

• Wrist Releases

• Ground Positions

• Ground: Front Kick

• Ground: Round Kick

• Ground: Side Kick

• Ground: Getting Up
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4:00 – 4:45pm Lecture: “Class Management”


4:45 – 5:30 TECHNIQUE REVIEW AND DRILLS

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Day Three
9:00 – 10:00am Lecture: “Safety In Training”
10:00 – 11:00am Technique Review

• Choke Front w/Push

• Choke Behind w/Push


11:00 -- 12:30pm Mock Teaching #4 breakout groups
12:30 – 1:30pm LUNCH
1:30 – 3:00pm Physical Test
3:00 - 4:30pm Teaching Test

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UNDERSTANDING SELF DEFENSE

I. Overview of Krav Maga


A. History and Development

B. System created for specific needs


C. Translation to law enforcement and civilian use

II. Self Defense v. Martial Arts or Sport Fighting


A. No rules – rules create limitation
B. Only rule is “Go Home Safe.”

III. Building A System: Describe An Efficient Self Defense


System
A. Easy to learn (short learning curve)
1. Fewer techniques that apply to more variations in attack

B. Easy to perform (simple mechanics)

C. Easy to remember under stress


D. Must work from unprepared positions
1. Move from disadvantage to advantage

2. Measure techniques by how they work when you’re late.


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IV. How Do We Build A System That Meets These


Requirements?
A. Techniques based on instinct
1. Why instinct?

a) Instinct v. learned response

2. What if a learned response is better?

a) How immediate is the need?

b) How much training time do you have?

c) Define “better”

3. Remember the goal of Krav Maga

a) “brings people to a high level of proficiency quickly

B. Integrated System
1. Effective movements that reappear throughout the system

C. Defend and Counter Simultaneously


1. Disrupt ongoing attack

2. Attacker mentality v. victim mentality

3. Issue of lag time: why practice a simultaneous defend/counter


when we know that, on the street, we will be slower?

4. Defensive movement must work independently of offensive


movement 8
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D. Attack the weakest part of the attack with the strongest


movement available
1. Examples throughout the system

E. Aggressiveness
1. Neutralize attacker more quickly

a) Makes us safer, sooner

b) Anecdotal evidence suggests that, among LE, use-of-force


complaints decrease using more aggressive control methods

c) Aggressiveness compensates for lack of training time

d) Techniques are important, but aggressiveness is vital

F. Conclusion: the items listed here constitute some of the core


principles of Krav Maga. This is why it is an effective system for bringing
people to a high level of proficiency quickly

V. Additional Issues
A. Escalation/De-Escalation
1. Move from passive to aggressive immediately, but be able to de-
escalate

a) Most people need training in escalation because they are


civilized and want to avoid physical conflict. However, we must
address issue of de-escalation for moral and legal reasons.

b) “Reasonable man standard”

B. Building a Fighter’s Mentality


1. Don’t quit

2. Drills to develop fighting spirit

3. Ignore discomfort, neutraize threat


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TEACHING TEMPLATE

I. STRUCTURE OF A LESSON
A. Live Demonstration
1. Aggressive and realistic from 2-3 angles

B. Slow &Fluid
1. Smooth, clean techniques slowly from 1-2 angles

C. Breakdown & Explain


1. Danger

2. Initial reaction

3. Counterattacks

D. Student Participation
1. Dry work/mirror work in stages

2. Partner work in the same stages

3. Initial attacks with partner should be slow and light

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II. Stages
A. Vital to break techniques into logical stages
B. Don’t overwhelm them with information
C. Break up the technique logically
1. Reaction to address immediate danger

2. Additional movements, if any (example: Choke Front Push)

3. Initial counterattack

4. Additional counterattacks (usually done with partners, not dry)

5. Know the problem areas in each technique

D. Give them enough to train safely, not too much

E. Planned interruptions

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QUALITIES OF A GREAT INSTRUCTOR

I. What makes a Great Instructor?


F. Mystery of charisma
1. Why is it important?

2. What is it?

G. List qualities of a great instructor


1. Energy

2. Depth of knowledge

3. Creativity

4. Connection to students

5. Care for student progress

6. Entertainment value

7. PASSION

H. Brainstorm Session
1. Practical ways to display the qualities listed above

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TOOLS USED TO TEACH

I. Three Categories: Verbal, Physical, Student Connection


A. Physical Demo
1. Live and aggressive

2. Slow and fluid

3. Partial demonstrations

4. Student demonstrations

a) Recognize good work

b) Validates technique

B. Verbal Explanations
1. Clear and concise

2. Key words

3. Metaphors and analogies

C. Voice
1. Most powerful tool

2. Don’t be monotone

3. Match tone to mood you want to create

4. Authoritative

D. Knowledge
1. Clear, concise explanations

2. Ability to answer questions confidently and clearly

a) Avoid absolutes
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3. Those who know more, talk less


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E. Position In Room

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1. Front

2. Middle

3. Move around, make contact with everyone

4. Student arrangements (line, semi-circle, etc.)

F. Body Language
1. Posture

2. Hand gestures

3. Slow demo intensity

G. Student Connection
1. Praise

2. Learn names

3. Appropriate contact

4. Eye contact

5. Notice improvements

6. Attention to class mood, demeanor

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CLASS MANAGEMENT

I. Establish Authority
H. They listen when you talk
I. They stop when you call “Time!”
1. Safety

J. They sit when you talk


1. Signals importance

2. Position of authority

K. Put on a pedestal
1. Not for ego; “don’t believe your own press”

2. Facilitates the learning process

II. Allow Questions


A. Encourage timely questions; give good answers
B. Defer untimely questions, but don’t look evasive

C. Questions are an opportunity to explain Krav Maga’s point of view

D. What if you don’t know the answer?


1. Defer if possible

2. Admit that you don’t know, and will ask

3. DON’T make up answers

III. Positions for Teaching


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A. Front of room
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1. Don’t teach with your back to the group

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B. Middle of room
1. Difficult, but sometimes interesting

C. Get around to everyone


1. When correcting individuals, position yourself to see as much of
the room as possible

D. Student positions
1. Line

2. Semi-circle

3. 3 sides of a square

4. circle (not always desirable)

IV. Time Management


A. 10/25/25

V. Dealing With Problem Students


A. Main topic of Level 3 certification
B. Poor performers
1. Give them one thing to fix

2. Settle for small improvements

3. Don’t let them occupy too much time

4. Rule: “enough to train safely”

C. Challenging students
1. Don’t get caught up in comparisons of other systems or
techniques

2. Challenges are an opportunity to explain Krav Maga’s point of


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view
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VI. Take This Job Seriously


A. Every class should do the following:
1. Make them sweat

2. Deliver new information

3. Deeper understanding of previous information

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PRINCIPLES OF WARM UP

I. Basic Purpose Of Warm Up


A. Elevate body temperature
B. Reduce risk of injury

C. Improve performance

II. Additional Goals of Warm Up


A. Set the tone

B. Heart rate up

C. Speed of blood flow – oxygen to muscles


D. Synovial fluid to joints
1. Reduces friction in joint

2. Especially important in the case of minor injuries

E. Rehearse common movements


F. Early warning system for injuries
G. Gets the heart ready for harder work
1. Gradual pulse elevation reduces risk of electrical disruption

III. Timing
A. 7-10 minutes, so that you have adequate time for the lesson
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IV. Stretching v. Flexibility


A. Flexibility refers to range of motion of joints
1. Degree of flexibility can be influenced by muscles and
connective tissue, such as ligaments and tendons

B. Range of Motion is Most Important


1. During warm up, focus on joint mobility and range of motion
rather than “elongating” muscle

C. Degree of required flexibility is dependent on primary activity


1. Muscles that are too loose may cause joint instability and
dislocation

D. Maximal v. Optimal
1. We are not trying to reach extremes of mobility, just adequate
mobility for exercise

V. Static v. Dynamic Stretch


A. Limitations of static stretch
1. Static stretching in early stages is inefficient and may lower
performance

2. Static stretching post-workout, when the body is extremely


warm, is more beneficial

B. Dynamic Stretching
1. Dynamic stretches more beneficial to prepare for dynamic
activity like Krav Maga

2. Prepares muscles by using movement similar to the movement


that will be performed during workout

3. Gently propel muscles toward maximum range of motion


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4. Avoid jerky, uncomfortable movements that might cause injury


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5. Examples of Dynamic Stretching

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C. Don’t ignore smaller joints


1. Neck

2. Elbows

3. Wrists

4. Knees

5. Ankles

VI. Games
A. If at the beginning of warm up, very light!
B. At the end of warm up, slightly more active

VII. Appropriate Degrees of Activity


A. Remember, we are warming up! Don’t make games, drills, or
actions that are too vigorous. We are trying to prevent injury, not cause
it.

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SAFETY IN TRAINING

I. Responsibility To Provide Realistic But Safe Training


A. Ethical obligation
B. Legal obligation
1. Waivers

C. Practical: “You can’t send a soldier into battle injured.”

II. Essentials
A. First Aid
B. Communications

C. Emergency services
D. CPR

III. Site Survey


A. Flooring
B. Ventilation
C. Obstacles/windows
D. Securing live weapons

E. Audience or passersby
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IV. Students
A. Proper attire

B. Jewelry, watches, etc.


C. Warm up
D. Injuries
1. Don’t just ask about injuries, tell them to tell you privately

2. When in doubt, sit out

E. Students follow directions


F. Be aware of mismatched students

G. Be aware of improper or unsafe training

V. Know Techniques
A. Inherent dangers (headlocks, chokes, etc.)

B. Know where movements will take the students

VI. Class Management As It Pertains To Safety


A. Authoritative voice
B. Arrange positions for safety

C. Regulate speed and power

VII. Liability
A. Waivers v. moral obligation
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LEVEL ONE
TECHNIQUES AND TEACHING POINTS

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LEVEL ONE
TECHNIQUE: Neutral or Passive Stance

“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE # 24

Main Teaching Points:

1. Hands down, unprepared position________________________________

2. ___________________________________________________________

3. ___________________________________________________________

4. ___________________________________________________________

Common Mistakes:

1. None_______________________________________________________

2. ___________________________________________________________

3. ___________________________________________________________
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LEVEL ONE
TECHNIQUE: Fighting Stance
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #25

Main Teaching Points:

1. Weak side is forward; feet are one natural step forward and back, hip or
shoulder width apart; back heel off the ground______________________

2. Hands up around chin height; slightly away from your face; and apart;___
elbows down and in to protect the body___________________________

3. Shoulders and hips relatively square to opponent (do NOT blade your
body sideways too much)_____________________________________

4. ___________________________________________________________

Common Mistakes:
1. Hands held down (often at chest height rather than chin height)_________

2. Stance too narrow, or feet not set far enough forward and back_________

3. ___________________________________________________________

4. ___________________________________________________________
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LEVEL ONE
TECHNIQUE: Moving in Fighting Stance
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #26

Main Teaching Points:

1. Push off with back foot (relative to the direction you want to travel)______

2. Open the forward foot and then close with the rear foot to end up in the
same fighting stance__________________________________________

3. ___________________________________________________________

4. ___________________________________________________________

Common Mistakes:
1. Opening the forward foot, but then not closing enough, so the stance
widens too much; have the student bring the back foot with them.______

2. Stepping with the forward foot rather than pushing off with the back one;
this leads to a less explosive movement._________________________

3. ___________________________________________________________

4. ___________________________________________________________
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LEVEL ONE
TECHNIQUE: Punch Mechanics
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #28

Main Teaching Points:


1. Hand leads the motion; elbow stays down; shoulder and hip turn forward;
keep chin down and roll punching shoulder up as you punch._

2. At end of punch, fist rotates to about 45 degrees (this varies by individual)

3. Striking surface varies by type of punch (fist, palm heel, eye strike)______

4. Punch through target (not just to the surface) and recoil immediately!____

Common Mistakes:
1. Lifting elbow to early, which makes the punch easier to see, exposes the
ribs, and sends the weakest part of the hand (pinky side) to the target.
Train to keep elbow down as punch develops.______________________

2. Arm motion without shoulders or hips. Students should understand that


legs, hips, and (to a lesser extent) shoulders generate the power, not the
arms.______________________________________________________

3. Students “touch” surface of target, rather than breaking through. Have


them punch past target to break it!________________________________

4. Students lean over hips, rather than rotate them. Have student focus on
rotating hips, rather than leaning body forward._____________________
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LEVEL ONE
TECHNIQUE: Left Straight Punch
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #29

Main Teaching Points:


1. Same points as “punch mechanics” above._________________________

2. Be sure shoulders and hips are relatively square in stance, so the forward
hand punch as power._________________________________________

3. Do not think of it as a “jab” – think of is as a power punch, even if weaker


than rear hand.______________________________________________

4. ___________________________________________________________

Common Mistakes:
1. Same as “Punch Mechanics” above.______________________________

2. Lifting elbow early is very common in the forward hand punch; students
feel like they are getting more power (because the arm feels like it is____
moving more). Keep elbow down._______________________________

3. Students fail to recoil. Tell them to bring the punch straight back.______

4. ___________________________________________________________
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LEVEL ONE
TECHNIQUE: Right Straight Punch
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #30

Main Teaching Points:


1. Same as “Punch Mechanics” above______________________________

2. Pivot rear foot “as though squashing a bug” to drive power forward. Hip
should rotate!________________________________________________

3. ___________________________________________________________

4. ___________________________________________________________

Common Mistakes:
1. Failure to pivot rear foot OR pivot for its own sake, rather to to drive power
forward. Make student understand that pivot should drive power from the
ground, up through the body, into punch._________________________

2. Floating punch: hand penetrates target, then floats or drops down and
away, rather than recoiling. Very common, especially on rear hand punch.
Have student recoil immediately, like a piston in the cylinder.___________

3. ___________________________________________________________
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4. ___________________________________________________________
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LEVEL ONE
TECHNIQUE: Palm Heel Strike
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE # 31

Main Teaching Points:


1. Same mechanics as straight punch._____________________________

2. Strike with heel of palm, fingers flexed back slightly._________________

3. Rotate hand (as with fist) - this helps protect against sprained wrist____

4. This strike is slightly less powerful (but still strong) and a little safer (avoids
possible injury to knuckles and fingers.___________________________

Common Mistakes:
1. Curling fingers too much so top knuckles are exposed to impact. This can
hurt or jam the fingers. Fingers should be extended more, and flexed
back.______________________________________________________

2. Lifting elbow too early. NOTE: this strike WILL cause the elbow to roll out
a little more (physiology of hand position) but try to keep elbow down as
much as possible._________________________________________

3. ___________________________________________________________
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4. ___________________________________________________________
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LEVEL ONE
TECHNIQUE: Eye Strike
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #32

Main Teaching Points:

1. Same mechanics as straight punch.______________________________

2. Fingers rotate to 45 degrees – this time to cover as much surface area as


possible in hopes of striking eye (small target)_____________________

3. Fingers slightly flexed so that if they bend on contact, they bend naturally,
rather than hyper-extending._________________________________

4. Fingers can be together or slightly apart, as long as they are strong.____

Common Mistakes:

1. ___________________________________________________________

2. ___________________________________________________________

3. ___________________________________________________________
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4. ___________________________________________________________
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LEVEL ONE
TECHNIQUE: Straight Punches Moving Forward
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” NOT IN BOOK

Main Teaching Points:


1. Same side foot steps forward slightly as hand makes a
punch.________________

2. The step should add power to the punch, but should not be too big (this is
different from the Advance, where we “burst” in).___________________

3. .__________________________________________________________

4. ___________________________________________________________

Common Mistakes:
1. Huge advance – students don’t need to cover enormous distance._____

2. Stepping too early – the punch and step should be


simultaneous.______________________________________

3. ___________________________________________________________

4. ___________________________________________________________
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LEVEL ONE
TECHNIQUE: Straight Punches Moving Forward
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” NOT IN BOOK

Main Teaching Points:


1. Same side foot steps backard slightly as hand makes a
punch.________________

2. The step should add power to the punch, but should not be too big.

3. .__________________________________________________________

4. ___________________________________________________________

Common Mistakes:
1. Huge retreat – students don’t need to cover enormous distance._____

2. Stepping or punching too early – the punch and step should be


simultaneous.______________________________________

3. ___________________________________________________________

4. ___________________________________________________________
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LEVEL ONE
TECHNIQUE: Straight Punch with Advance
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #33

Main Teaching Points:


1. Hand leads the motion; burst in immediately with feet.________________

2. Advance should be on a slight diagonal.___________________________

3. Give the opponent an attack as you advance, rather than just advancing
where he is free to counter.____________________________________

4. ___________________________________________________________

Common Mistakes:
1. Huge advance – students don’t need to cover enormous distance._____

2. Punch too early (battering ram effect) – the punch only needs to precede
the advance by a fraction.______________________________________

3. Heavy landing – be sure the student lands lightly enough so they are
ready for the rest of the fight.________________________________

4. ___________________________________________________________
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LEVEL ONE
TECHNIQUE: Straight Punch with Retreat
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #34

Main Teaching Points:


1. As you retreat on a diagonal, send forward hand straight punch._______

2. Punch can be made to head or body (head is better; body if you are also
slipping his punch).___________________________________________

3. Used as a chance to do slight damage as you maintain distance, or to


discourage attacker’s forward progress.___________________________

4. ___________________________________________________________

Common Mistakes:
1. Retreat first, then punch: this is too late. Punch should be made as you
retreat._____________________________________________________

2. Students should understand that this punch won’t be as strong._________

3. ___________________________________________________________

4. ___________________________________________________________
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LEVEL ONE
TECHNIQUE: Straight Punch Low
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE 35

Main Teaching Points:


1. As you send the hand, drop the body down and forward

2. Keep chin tucked, roll shoulder up; opposite hand comes over to help
cover.

3. Head movement and advance should be on a diagonal to get out of line of


punches.

4. Recoil immediately and move away/change angle.

Common Mistakes:
1. Student keeps head up, while punching low – drop head down so you can
stay covered!

2. Student moves straight in – this exposes you to his punches. Move on a


diagonal to get out of line of attack.

3. Student fails to commit – this reduces powr and leaves head outside in
punching range. Commit to punch to strike to body has power, and gets
you inside his range.
4. ___________________________________________________________
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LEVEL ONE
TECHNIQUE: Hammerfist to the Side
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #36

Main Teaching Points:


1. When attacks from the side (or even behind), swing arm out; elbow starts
out bent as hips pivot, then unfolds on contact. (Elbow coming up should
also help shield the defender.)

2. As hand travels toward target, back of hand should face the target. Rotate
as contact is made, striking with “meat” part of fist (pinky side). As you
strike, other hand should come up to cover.

3. Hips must rotate and outside foot should pivot for power; stepping is OK
but hand should lead the motion; do NOT rely on being able to step all the
time.

4. Recoil and turn to face the attacker.

Common Mistakes:
1. Winding up too much. The defender should not wind up before striking –
the strike will arrive too late.
2. Failure to pivot – students don’t turn hips. This strike will lack power. Look
for hip rotation and pivot of the foot.
3. Sliding off target – students sometimes “slash” along the surface of the
target, rather than breaking it. Be sure they break through!
4. ___________________________________________________________
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LEVEL ONE
TECHNIQUE: Forward Hammerfist
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #38

Main Teaching Points:

1. Hand may lift slightly upward, but not too much – do not lift it backward.
2. Strike downward, rotating shoulder and hip for power; drive with your legs.
3. Fist starts with palm forward toward target; rotate on contact for added
power.
4. Note that, from a fighting stance, the forward hand will be considerably
weaker; it is often better to make a rear-hand/forward hand combination,
so the second punch can load up.

Common Mistakes:

1. Too much wind up – students throw the hand back, which exposes their
face to danger.

2. Using arm only – if students do not use hip and leg, the strike will have no
power.

3. ___________________________________________________________

4. ___________________________________________________________
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LEVEL ONE
TECHNIQUE: Downward Hammerfist
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #39

Main Teaching Points:


1. Lift the hand in a small wind up.

2. As you strike downward, create power by rotating your hip and shoulder
inward and downward. Bend at the knees; do NOT bend at the waist.

3. As the fist descends, start with the palm facing downward. Rotate the fist
on contact to generate extra power, striking with the meat part of the fist.

4. ___________________________________________________________

Common Mistakes:
1. Students bend at the waist – this reduces power and makes them lose
balance. They should drop their weight straight down by bend knees and
rotating hip inward, rather than bending over at the waist.

2. Sliding off target – students slide their hand along target rather than
breaking through it. Be sure they break through the target and recoil.

3. ___________________________________________________________
39

4. ___________________________________________________________
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LEVEL ONE
TECHNIQUE: Horizontal High Elbow Strike (Elbow #1)
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE # 40

Main Teaching Points:

1. ___________________________________________________________

2. ___________________________________________________________

3. ___________________________________________________________

4. ___________________________________________________________

Common Mistakes:

1. ___________________________________________________________

2. ___________________________________________________________

3. ___________________________________________________________

4. ___________________________________________________________
40
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LEVEL ONE
TECHNIQUE: Sideways Elbow Strike (Elbow #2)
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE # 41

Main Teaching Points:

1. ___________________________________________________________

2. ___________________________________________________________

3. ___________________________________________________________

4. ___________________________________________________________

Common Mistakes:

1. ___________________________________________________________

2. ___________________________________________________________

3. ___________________________________________________________

4. ___________________________________________________________
41
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LEVEL ONE
TECHNIQUE: Horizontal Elbow Strike Backward (Elbow #3)
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #42

Main Teaching Points:

1. ___________________________________________________________

2. ___________________________________________________________

3. ___________________________________________________________

4. ___________________________________________________________

Common Mistakes:

1. ___________________________________________________________

2. ___________________________________________________________

3. ___________________________________________________________

4. ___________________________________________________________
42
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LEVEL ONE
TECHNIQUE: Vertical Elbow Strike Backward Low (Elbow #4)
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #43

Main Teaching Points:

1. ___________________________________________________________

2. ___________________________________________________________

3. ___________________________________________________________

4. ___________________________________________________________

Common Mistakes:

1. ___________________________________________________________

2. ___________________________________________________________

3. ___________________________________________________________

4. ___________________________________________________________
43
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LEVEL ONE
TECHNIQUE: Vertical Elbow Strike Backward (Elbow #5)
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #44

Main Teaching Points:

1. ___________________________________________________________

2. ___________________________________________________________

3. ___________________________________________________________

4. ___________________________________________________________

Common Mistakes:

1. ___________________________________________________________

2. ___________________________________________________________

3. ___________________________________________________________

4. ___________________________________________________________
44
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LEVEL ONE
TECHNIQUE: Vertical Elbow Strike Forward and Upward (Elbow #6)
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #45

Main Teaching Points:

1. ___________________________________________________________

2. ___________________________________________________________

3. ___________________________________________________________

4. ___________________________________________________________

Common Mistakes:

1. ___________________________________________________________

2. ___________________________________________________________

3. ___________________________________________________________

4. ___________________________________________________________
45
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LEVEL ONE
TECHNIQUE: Vertical Elbow Strike Forward and Down (Elbow #7)
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #46

Main Teaching Points:

1. ___________________________________________________________

2. ___________________________________________________________

3. ___________________________________________________________

4. ___________________________________________________________

Common Mistakes:

1. ___________________________________________________________

2. ___________________________________________________________

3. ___________________________________________________________

4. ___________________________________________________________
46
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LEVEL ONE
TECHNIQUE: Front Kick (Regular)
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #47

Main Teaching Points:


1. Swing leg and hip forward, knee bent.

2. As kick develops, unfold knee. Be sure you hip travels forward! (Note: this
sometimes gives the impression that we are leaning our shoulders back.
This is not the case.)

3. Keep your hands up! Point toes; strike with instep or shin (shin preferred)

4. Recoil into fighting stance; you may land forward if this is tactically sound.
Either way, control your foot rather than just dropping it down.
5. Kick through the target; do not kick to surface, strike through to break!

Common Mistakes:
1. Hip stays back – students send the leg, but do not use hip; this kick will
lack power.
2. Student leans forward; similar to #1 above, if the student leans forward,
the leg and hip will not want to move.
3. Student drops hands; hands should stay up during the kick. Some
counterbalancing movement is OK.
4. Foot lands heavily; whether you land forward or back, control your recoil.
47
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LEVEL ONE
TECHNIQUE: Front Kick (Vertical Target)
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #48

Main Teaching Points:


1. Lift your knee up (“chambering”)
2. Send the foot, leg, and hip straight out (not upward). As you kick, curl your
toes upward and strike with the ball of the foot. Base foot can rotate a little
(heel goes inward) to allow hip to open up.
3. Keep your hands up!
4. Land forward or back, but with control!

Common Mistakes:

1. Leaving hip back; If the student does not involve the hip, there will be no
power.
2. Hands drop – students do this automatically for counter-balance. Allow
them to “pump” the elbow a little, but don’t let hands drop.

3. ___________________________________________________________

4. ___________________________________________________________
48
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LEVEL ONE
TECHNIQUE: Round Kick
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #49

Main Teaching Points:


1. Raise knee up; hip rolls over; base foot pivots.
2. Strike with the shin; as you make contact, your knee should still be slightly
bent. (alternate striking surfaces: instep or ball of foot)
3. Hands stay up! Forward hand may move out and sideways for
counterbalance and to help cover. Head should go offline to avoid straight
right punch.
4. Recoil immediately into a fighting stance.
5. Issue of stepping: stepping diagonally into the kick is OK – but students
should learn to deliver power with a pivot, rather than a step, as well,
because sometimes the step is not available.

Common Mistakes:

1. No pivot; students swing their leg without hip rotation – this lacks power
and may actually hurt their base knee. Students should pivot on the ball
of the foot.
2. Hands drop – hands should stay up, but may “pump” slightly for
counterbalance.
3. Constant stepping – some systems advocate always stepping into a round
kick; we allow for a step, but also train students to kick without stepping.
4. ___________________________________________________________
49
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LEVEL ONE
TECHNIQUE: Knee Strike
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #50

Main Teaching Points:


1. Grab your opponent by the arm and shoulder, keeping your inside elbow
down and forearm across his neck/jawline. He should feel your weight!

2. Pull your opponent in and/or down, and bring your bent knee up
explosively. Drive your hip forward and upward, with your toes pointed.
3. Strike with a small surface area just above the knee cap. Target areas are
the groin, midsection, or face. Recoil immediately for stability!
4. Alternate hold: Muay Thai clinch (a.k.a. double neck tie)

Common Mistakes:

1. Students throw their whole body at the target, rather than extending their
hip; this lacks power and takes them off balance. They should drive their
hip, not launch their whole body.
2. Students strike with their whole thigh – this disperses force. Strike with a
small surface area to get greater penetration.

3. ___________________________________________________________

4. ___________________________________________________________
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LEVEL ONE
TECHNIQUE: Round Knee Strike
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE # 51

Main Teaching Points:

1. Similar to regular knee strike.

2. As you strike, roll your hip in a similar fashion to a round kick to strike on a
horizontal (or diagonal) angle.
3. This kick is delivered to the side ribs, stomach, or head.

4. ___________________________________________________________

Common Mistakes:

1. ___________________________________________________________

2. ___________________________________________________________

3. ___________________________________________________________

4. ___________________________________________________________
51
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LEVEL ONE
TECHNIQUE: 360° Defense (Outside Defense)
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #54

Main Teaching Points:

1. Wrist to wrist; blade of your arm; bend in your elbow; put weight in your
defense!
2. On #1, be sure your defense is slightly forward, not directly overhead.
3. On #6 and #7, bend at the waist. Do NOT bend at the knees.
4. Do not think defense, think offense. Train to defend without moving the
feet (as though you are late). Later, if you are early, you can burst in.
5. Look at center of chest, do not follow each strike with your eyes.

Common Mistakes:

1. Students collapse their arms – they must put weight in their defense; think
of attacking the attack.

2. Eyes follow attack – if the student looks at one attack, he will miss the next
one; eyes should be “diffused” at center of chest, to see everything.
3. Bending at knees – this will bring the body closer to the weapon on a low
attack. Bend at the waist instead.
4. Students “hinge” at elbow in a circular motion – this is slower and weaker;
instead, think of sending whole forearm as a defense, extending from
upper arm and shoulder.
52
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LEVEL ONE
TECHNIQUE: Inside Defense against Straight Punch
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #56

Main Teaching Points:


1. As the attacker punches, bring your defending hand forward and inward
(think of pushing from the center of your palm). Your elbow should stay
below your hand (don’t “hinge”) your hand forward.
2. Let the punch slide along your hand – think of redirecting, not hitting or
slapping. Note: if the punch is lower than you thought, you may defend
with the wrist or forearm as well.
3. Make a body defense by moving your head slightly to the outside.
4. The movement should be as small as possible to avoid taking your hand
out of position.

Common Mistakes:
1. Slapping/overcommitting/big defense – students get nervous and make
much too big a motion. Have the attacker go slowly, and allow them to
see how small a defense they can make.
2. Defender moves hand inward, but not forward. If he does this, he can
only defend when the punch reaches his face. The defense should be
forward as well as inward, so you can defend farther from your face if you
react early.
3. Leaning out of the fight and/or retreating. Students should not think too
defensively: tuck the chin, trust the defense, and stay in the fight!
4. Hand gets dragged backward. This takes the hand out of position. Keep
enough tension/firmness in the palm to keep your hand forward. Let the
attacker’s punch slide off.
53
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LEVEL ONE
TECHNIQUE: Inside Defense against Straight Punch Low
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #57

Main Teaching Points:


1. As the attacker punches, bring your elbow across your body to redirect the
punch. The sliding principle is the same as Inside Defense above.
2. Be sure your hand stays up as your elbow/forearm make the defense.
3. Make a body defense by rotating and blading the body slightly.
4. Contract your abs to protect your midsection. This will also “shrink” your
body a little, so that the length of your forearm (elbow to fingers) protects
more of your abdomen.

Common Mistakes:

1. Dropping hands. Students drop their hands to defense, rather than


defending with the lower part of the forearm. This opens them up to
additional attacks or feints.
2. ___________________________________________________________

3. ___________________________________________________________

4. ___________________________________________________________
54
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LEVEL ONE
TECHNIQUE: Inside Defense and 360° against Punches
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #58

Main Teaching Points:

1. ___________________________________________________________

2. ___________________________________________________________

3. ___________________________________________________________

4. ___________________________________________________________

Common Mistakes:

1. ___________________________________________________________

2. ___________________________________________________________

3. ___________________________________________________________

4. ___________________________________________________________
55
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LEVEL ONE
TECHNIQUE: Choke from the Front (Two-Handed Pluck)
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #60

Main Teaching Points:


1. Hands like hooks; reach in deep (up to your wrists) near the thumbs for
maximum leverage; pluck out and slightly backward in one fluid motion
(speed not strength). Tuck your chin as you pluck.
2. At the same time as the pluck, make a front kick to the groin; don’t worry
about sending a knee or kick, just send the whole leg and make contact
with whatever you can (toe, instep, shin, knee, etc.).
3. Trap the hands to your shoulders/chest as you counterattack.
4. Continue with additional counters as needed.

Common Mistakes:

1. Students pluck downward. This inhibits the pluck, since the defender’s
shoulders are in the way.
2. Students pluck at the wrist or forearm, rather than the thumbs. This
reduces leverage. They should send their hands where they feel
pain…which is right at the thumbs.
3. Students use strength (reaching and grabbing, rather than plucking
explosively). Make sure they make one fluid motion.

4. ___________________________________________________________
56
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LEVEL ONE
TECHNIQUE: Choke from the Front (One-Handed Pluck)
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #62

Main Teaching Points:

1. Reach up one hand to pluck the attacker’s hand.


2. At the same time, send your free hand up and under the other arm, using
a palm heel strike to the chin or face. If you know how to deliver an
uppercut, you may use that strike instead.
3. Note: when giving the palm heel strike, you may have to drop your
shoulder underneath the attacker’s hand and arm.
4. The combination of a strike and pluck cause a body rotation that helps
relieve the pressure from your throat.

Common Mistakes:
1. Students don’t pluck effectively. Make sure they reach deep enough and
pluck outward, rather than downward.
2. Palm heel strike is jammed or stifled. Make sure they dip their shoulder
under the attacker’s hand or arm.
3. Note: this technique is less instinctive than the two-handed technique, but
works well.
4. ___________________________________________________________
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LEVEL ONE
TECHNIQUE: Choke from Behind
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE # 63

Main Teaching Points:


1. Reach up and back as you tuck your chin (reach as far back as you can).
Pluck downward explosively, as though giving yourself two elbows to the
stomach.
2. As you pluck, make a diagonal step with both feet to the side and back.
This movement makes sure the attacker does not stay behind you, and it
lines him up for that first strike. Your inside hand should continue traveling
down in a strike to the groin. Your outside hand continues to hold the
attacker’s hand.
3. Continue with additional counters (often, an elbow to the face). Turn inside
(give a hammerfist or elbow as you turn) and continue with knees and
other counterattacks.
4. ___________________________________________________________

Common Mistakes:
1. The defender doesn’t reach back far enough. Make sure they reach as far
back as possible to ensure plucking at the attacker’s thumbs.
2. Grabbing rather than plucking – be sure the defender makes a smooth
motion to pluck, rather than a grab/stop/pull motion, which relies on
strength.
3. Counter is not simultaneous. Sometimes students pluck first, then strike
the groin. Encourage them to flow directly from the pluck to the
counterattack.
4. There are other ways to finish (create distance, give different
58

counterattacks, etc.) but the student should NEVER finish with their back
to the assailant.
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LEVEL ONE
TECHNIQUE: Choke from the Side
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #65

Main Teaching Points:


1. Using your outside hand (the one away from the attacker), reach up and
across and pluck at the attacker’s thumb diagonally across your chest.
2. At the same time, counterattack with strike to the groin (usually fastest or
an elbow to the face.
3. Turn toward the attacker with additional counters (often, a hammerfist to
the side of the head or neck) and contine until the threat is neutralized.
4. When you pluck, make sure you pluck diagonally along your obdy; pulling
out and away from your body is a weaker movement.

Common Mistakes:
1. Pluck is shallow – the student should reach farther so they ensure
plucking at the thumb.
2. Students always step in to make the defense – they should never assume
they can move their feet first. Learn to make the pluck in your place.
3. When would this attack happen? It might happen of it’s own accord; or it
may be that the defender was facing the attacker when the choke
developed, but turned away as a defensive reaction, and the choke came
from the side as a result.
4. ___________________________________________________________
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LEVEL ONE
TECHNIQUE: Choke from the Front with a Push
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #66

Main Teaching Points:


1. As you are pushed, step back (we will assume the left foot steps back).
Stab your right hand to the sky, bicep to your ear; this ensures that you’ll
defend at the attacker’s wrist, where you have leverage.
2. Rotate sharply to the left, causing pressure at his wrist (not his forearm!).
3. Drop your right elbow down (elbow #7) to clear his hands from the area of
your throat, while bringing your other hand up to catch and trap his
hands/arms.
4. Recoil your right elbow and deliver an elbow #2 to the attacker’s face.
Continue with further counterattacks to neutralize the assailant.

Common Mistakes:
1. Defender does not put bicep to ear – this will not create leverage at the
wrist. The defender must get the arm up so that they attack the wrist area.
If the arm is too far from the ear, they will make leverage on the attacker’s
forearm, which he can resist.
2. Defender “sweeps” his arm across rather than stabbing to the sky. This
can work many times, but may get tangled up if the attacker’s elbows are
bent. KM prefers the stab upward.
3. Defender takes a large first step to “stop” the push. This step is unrealistic
and actually creates more pressure on the throat. An instinctive step will
be small (and there may be several of them). Rely on a rotation even if
you are off balance.
4. Defenders mistake the elbow #7 for the defense. This elbow just gets the
60

hands out of your way. It is the ROTATION that removes the choke.
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LEVEL ONE
TECHNIQUE: Choke from Behind with a Push
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #68

Main Teaching Points:


1. As you are pushed forward, reach your hands forward and take a small
(instinctive) step; assuming you step with your right foot, reach your left
arm forward, bicep to ear.
2. Turn sharply in your place, making sure that your turn creates leverage on
his wrist. Do NOT try to travel back toward the attacker; this may put the
leverage higher up his arm, which he can resist.
3. As you complete your turn, step back with your inside foot (in our
example, it’s your left foot). This helps maintain balance against a strong
push. Bring your left elbow down to clear his hands and pin them to your
body. At the same time, counterattack with a right punch, followed usually
by (left) knees.
4. Note: if the push is very weak, you make not need to take that second
step to regain balance, but most often it will help.

Common Mistakes:
1. Students take a big step to “stop” the push. This is unlikely and will
increase pressure on the throat. The student should rely on a small step
and a sharp rotation, even if they are not yet on balance.
2. Students try to turn back into the attacker’s arm, which does not create
pressure on the wrist. The turn should be sharp and in the place, creating
leverage on the wrist.
3. Is it OK to wrap your arm around the attacker’s arms, rather than trap with
the elbow? For some individuals, this may be acceptable, but as a
general exercise, the answer is NO. Wrapping the arm connects us too
much to the attacker, and is not good for smaller defenders and/or
61

inexperienced grapplers.
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LEVEL ONE
TECHNIQUE: Headlock from Behind (Bar Arm)
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #128

Main Teaching Points:


1. As the attack develops, tuck your chin if possible. However, we often train
as though we are late, with the chin up, just to feel the danger.
2. Always defend at the attacker’s hands; reach as far back as possible and
pluck explosively.
3. As you pluck down, turn your chin sharply inward and downward, and
rotate your shoulder into the attacker.
4. Slide your head out of the opening.
5. Counterattack immediately with knees and additional combatives.

Notes & Common Mistakes:


1. Students grab instead of pluck. The motion must be quick and explosive!
2. Students do not turn their chin. This exposes the neck and tends to get
them caught up when they try to slip out of the hold. They must turn their
chin to slide out of the narrow opening made by the defense.
3. Students roll the outside hip out, rather than driving the inside shoulder
inward. This increases the pressure on their neck. They must punch their
inside shoulder into the attacker. 62
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LEVEL ONE
TECHNIQUE: Headlock from Behind (Carotid Choke)
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #130

Main Teaching Points:


1. Relate this technique directly to Headlock From Behind (Bar Arm). The
techniques are essentially one and the same.
2. In the carotid choke, the attacker’s hands will be much farther back.
Reach as far back as you can, leading with the nearest hand. This will
create a “1-2” rhythm when you pluck, which is fine.
3. The pluck now will tend to be down along your shoulder, rather than down
your chest.

4.

Notes & Common Mistakes:


1. The student does not reach far enough back. Reach as FAR back as you
can to ensure you will defend at the attacker’s hands.
2. Students roll the outside hip out, rather than driving the inside shoulder
inward. This increases the pressure on their neck. They must punch their
inside shoulder into the attacker.
3. ___________________________________________________________

4. ___________________________________________________________
63
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LEVEL ONE
TECHNIQUE: Wrist Release: Same-Side Hand (Elbow to Elbow)
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #72

Main Teaching Points:

1. Roll your thumb toward the opening, blade of your arm leads the way; At
the same time, you’re your elbow to the attacker’s elbow.
2. Step back, creating distance, as your hands come up.
3. There is no need for counterattacks; the situation, by definition, does not
call for it.

4. ___________________________________________________________

Common Mistakes:

1. Defender pulls the hand away, rather than taking the elbow forward. This
creates a “tug of war” rather than using leverage.
2. ___________________________________________________________

3. ___________________________________________________________

4. ___________________________________________________________
64
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LEVEL ONE
TECHNIQUE: Wrist Release: Opposite-Side Hand (Hitchhike Out)
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #73

Main Teaching Points:


1. Roll your thumb toward the opening, bend your elbow in a little bit, and
leverage your thumb out the opening in a “hitchhiking” motion.

2. Move away, bringing your hands up.

3. ___________________________________________________________

4. ___________________________________________________________

Common Mistakes:
1. Defender tries to pull the hand out of the grip, rather than using leverage.

2. ___________________________________________________________

3. ___________________________________________________________

4. ___________________________________________________________
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LEVEL ONE
TECHNIQUE: Wrist Release: Two Hands Held High
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #74

Main Teaching Points:

1. Roll the pinky side of both hands downward and outward, making leverage
against the attacker’s thumbs (the weak part of the grip).
2. Make the circle fairly tight – the wider the circle, the more the attacker can
compensate.
3. Complete the circle so your hands come up as you step back.
4. ___________________________________________________________

Common Mistakes:

1. The defender pulls straight down; they must make a circular motion so
that they move against the weak part of the attacker’s grip.
2. The defender does not make a complete circle. This leaves the hands
down and the defender’s face open.

3. ___________________________________________________________

4. ___________________________________________________________
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LEVEL ONE
TECHNIQUE: Wrist Release: Two Hands Held Down
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #75

Main Teaching Points:

1. Bring both hands inward and upward; roll the thumb out the opening.
2. As you do so, curl your fingers and tuck your chin (this prevents
accidentally jabs at your own eyes or face).
3. Keep your hands up as you step back.
4. ___________________________________________________________

Common Mistakes:

1. ___________________________________________________________

2. ___________________________________________________________

3. ___________________________________________________________

4. ___________________________________________________________
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LEVEL ONE
TECHNIQUE: Wrist Release: Wrist Held by Two Hands
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #76

Main Teaching Points:

1. With your free hand, reach between the attacker’s hands and grab your
own fist.
2. Lift your fist above the line of the attacker’s forearms.
3. Roll your elbow (of the arm that is caught) in a light imitation of elbow #1,
creating leverage against his wrists.
4. Step back and keep your hands up.

Common Mistakes:

1. ___________________________________________________________

2. ___________________________________________________________

3. ___________________________________________________________

4. ___________________________________________________________
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LEVEL ONE
TECHNIQUE: Back Position
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #77

Main Teaching Points:

1. Base foot close to your butt; other knee to your chest; head off the ground;
hips off the ground; hands up. Your chambered foot should be flexed
back.
2. Keep as little surface area as possible on the ground (less friction).
3. ___________________________________________________________
4. ___________________________________________________________

Common Mistakes:
1. Knee is not chambered back – this means the leg is not really ready to
kick. The knee MUST be pulled back to the chest, ready to strike.
2. Hips are on the ground. This will reduce mobility and decrease the power
of a kick.
3. ___________________________________________________________

4. ___________________________________________________________ 69
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LEVEL ONE
TECHNIQUE: Back Position: Movement on the Ground
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #78

Main Teaching Points:

1. Always keep your feet between you and the attacker! Use your planted
foot to turn and stop.
2. Keep the foot closest to the attacker chambered. If the attacker circles to
your left, keep your lift foot up. If he switches, you switch. This allows you
to kick him sooner, and makes it harder for him to get past your guard.
3. If the attacker is farther away, you can use your hands to help turn.
4. ___________________________________________________________

Common Mistakes:

1. Defender lets the leg fall as he turns – this means he is not ready to kick.
Keep the chambered knee back at all times.
2. ___________________________________________________________

3. ___________________________________________________________

4. ___________________________________________________________
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LEVEL ONE
TECHNIQUE: Side Position
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE # 79

Main Teaching Points:


1. Lie on one hip, propped up on the elbow and forearm of the lower arm.
Bottom leg is bent to give you a base. Top arm is up protecting your face.
Top leg is chambered back to kick.
2. ___________________________________________________________

3. ___________________________________________________________

4. ___________________________________________________________

Common Mistakes:

1. ___________________________________________________________

2. ___________________________________________________________

3. ___________________________________________________________

4. ___________________________________________________________
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LEVEL ONE
TECHNIQUE: Side Position: Movement on the Ground
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #80

Main Teaching Points:

1. If the defender moves to your live side, simply spin to follow him.
2. If the defender moves to your dead side, flip to switch your ground
position.
3. ___________________________________________________________
4. ___________________________________________________________

Common Mistakes:

1. ___________________________________________________________

2. ___________________________________________________________

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LEVEL ONE
TECHNIQUE: Front Kick from the Ground
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE # 81

Main Teaching Points:


1. This kick is usually made from the Back Position. Think of it as a stomp.
2. Stomp your foot out, striking with the heel. Drive your hip into the kick!
3. At the moment of contact, only your base foot, your shoulders, and
possibly your elbows should be touching the floor. Your hips MUST be off
the ground, driving into the kick. Recoil immediately.
4. Most kicks should be to the attacker’s shin or knee. For this reason, turn
your toes out to ensure contact against a narrow target.
5. Recoil immediately, get ready to kick again.

Common Mistakes:
1. Defender leaves his hips flat on the floor – the kick will lack power. You
MUST drive power into the kick.
2. Defender kicks, but does not recoil. Make sure you recoil every kick, even
if you are tired.
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LEVEL ONE
TECHNIQUE: Round Kick from the Ground
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE # 82

Main Teaching Points:

1. This kick is very much like a round kick from a standing position. It is
made when the attacker tries to get around your guard. Strike with the
shin.
2. For added power, make a slight scissor motion of your hips, rolling the
bottom hip underneath and the top hip over. Chop slightly downward as
you kick, aiming for the sides of the attacker’s knee.
3. The kick may be done with either leg; however, your base leg will be
stronger.
4. Recover by pulling the bottom knee up and turning both feet toward the
attacker. The most immediate recovery position is usually a Side Position.

Common Mistakes:

1. Students don’t scissor their hips. This will result in a) no hip rotation at all
or b) the top hip rolling way over, slowing the kick down. Students should
think of the bottom hip rolling underneath a little, to create a more dynamic
rotation.
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LEVEL ONE
TECHNIQUE: Side Kick from the Ground
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE # 83

Main Teaching Points:

1. Although we call it a side kick, this is really the same stomp as a front kick,
just delivered from the side position.
2. From the side position, use your base arm to push off and generate more
power.
3. The kick is usually delivered to the knee or shins.
4. Recoil immediately!

Common Mistakes:

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LEVEL ONE
TECHNIQUE: Getting Up
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #84

Main Teaching Points:

1. Assume there is a small distance between you and the standing attacker.
2. Sit up and put one hand on the ground. The opposite foot should go to the
ground, and the same side leg/foot should come up, ready to kick. Your
free hand should be up, guarding your face.
3. Lift your hips off the ground. Swing your kicking foot and hip back on a
diagonal (do NOT try to swing straight backward). Once your hip and leg
are back, then reach your foot farther back behind you.
4. Stand up, moving back to create more distance.
5. NOTE: if the defender cannot get up using one hand, he may put both
hands down. This means his head is unguarded, but it’s better than not
getting up at all!

Common Mistakes:

1. Defenders put their base foot down in FRONT of the other foot, stopping it
from being used as a kick. One foot should be free and ready to kick.
2. Defenders swing their hips straight back. This is very difficult unless you
are very flexible. Swing your hips on a diagonal.
3. Defenders put their foot down right beneath their body. This means they
will probably stumble backward, rather than gaining balance. They should
put the back foot well behind them.
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