NOTE: THe Krav Maga described here is the Lotar / Krav Maga taught at ELite Training Center, Redondo Beach California) The techniques are often more involved that the simple Krav Maga found elsewhere. ANd when different, they are always more effective.
I am amazed at how confused I have gotten with simple things. So I am starting this post of basic principals…
1. PIVOT TO GET FORCE: force = mass * acceleration.. that means punches, kicks, etc. will be much more forceful if I shift and rotate as I execute
2. PUNCHING PIVOTING: When punching Pivot on the same foot as the punch (there is a string attached from the hand to the foot) I am amazed at how many different things I thought I understood…. that were wrong.
smaller pivot for jab (or forward hand)…. bigger pivot for hook (or back hand)
2a. Punch Motion: The foot pivoting is only a portion of the punch.. the hip and shoulder from the side the punch is coming from also turn. the real power comes from the hip. So a punch is a simultaneous pivot on foot, turn hip toward the punch and shoulder coming forward.
My niece pointed out that “”also try to punch THROUGH your target rather than hitting the surface. We once practiced strikes into a bucket of dried beans, and it was fascinating how that change in focus/target would make such a difference… “
A hook motion is like scooping ice cream.. thumb side UP ALWAYS
3. RELAXED HANDS: Keep hands relaxed until just before contact. I had been holding fists so tight while guarding that I couldn’t execute anything.
4. HAND LEVEL FOR GUARD: Keep hands open and about at eyebrow level where not punching…. ALWAYS keep one hand there unless the move requires both hands…. UPDATE: Note today I was told to keep my hands more at nose / mouth level since these are most likely to generate a knock out if hit there. Two instructors with different opinions. I think the face level is better as well since it doesn’t block my vision at all.
