Inspired from “Krav Marga” is yet another Middle Eastern martial art form known Urban Krav Marga. This “hybrid” combat style is said to have originated from Israel, and has been developed using elements belonging to a variety of forms such as Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Boxing, Muay Thai, and Mixed Martial Arts or MMA. Furthermore, this style of combat was basically developed as a form of “self defense” against street attacks. In addition, Urban Krav Marga has been created using “technique” rather than “strength”, and hence is perfectly suitable for women.
a. History/origin of the Urban Krav Marga:
Apparently, the Urban Krav Marga was developed in 2008 by a martial artist Stewart McGill who also is a senior instructor at the British Combat Association. It was in Israel that McGill learnt the art of Krav Marga through an association known as “International Krav Marga Federation” (IKMF). Furthermore, a martial artist known as Leo Negao joined McGill as a senior instructor. Now, Negao was trained in Vale Tudo, MMA fighter, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. And so it was using the martial art knowledge shared by Negao and McGill that a unique combat system known as “Urban Krav Marga” was developed.
b. Weapon used in the Urban Krav Marga:
The “hands and feet” of the fighter is mainly used as a weapon in this form of combat.
c. Technique involved in the Urban Krav Marga and training availability:
In terms of technique, the Urban Krav Marga essentially focuses on methods that would help pre-empt a move and thereby kill a full confrontation before it has been initiated. And so a fighter in this style of combat makes use of moves such as chokes and pushes. In addition, this combat form is based on a principle that states the following:
- Avoiding confrontation first and foremost by talking to attacker / defusing situation in the simplest way possible
- If it is clear that the situation escalates, executing a pre-emptive attack
- Assuming the majority of street fights last a minute or less
- Attacks need therefore be short and intense, making use of pressure points like eyes, groin, throat, fingers etc.
- Getting out of the situation as soon as the threat is neutralised – students are taught to be aware of their surroundings and likeliest exits
As for training centers/schools, there are few available especially in countries such as United States, Canada, Brazil, Italy, Greece, and Colombia for those interested in learning this “hybrid” combat form.
