Krav Maga, meaning “Contact Combat” or “Close Combat”, is a fighting self-defense system that stresses efficiency, aggression and survival. It is a combination of Boxing, Wrestling, Aikido, Judo, Karate and other martial arts, along with realistic street fighting. However, Krav Maga is not considered a sport and there are no competitions. The techniques in Krav Maga are based on the body’s natural instincts and are designed to implement maximum damage as quickly as possible. For this reason, it is a preferred training method by special forces and law enforcement worldwide. Practicing Krav Maga helps to avoid and survive the worst-case scenarios. Individuals learn basic stances, striking (e.g. to the back of the head, throat or groin), eye gouges, techniques for falling and getting up safely, chokes, headbutts and headlocks. They also learn how to deal with multiple simultaneous attackers, weapons, complicated situations, and learn advanced combative and weapon techniques. Some of key principles utilized in Krav Maga utilizes are 1) Identify the immediate danger, 2) Use the body’s natural reaction, 3) Defend and counterattack simultaneously, 4) When counterattacking, aggressively target vulnerable areas, 5) Techniques must be effective regardless of size or strength, 6) Neutralize the threat, 7) Focus on vulnerable soft tissue and pressure points. The benefits of Krav Maga are increased awareness, instinctive reflexes, stamina, physical & mental strength, and confidence.