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Are you an expat in Prague looking for an exercise class to join, or perhaps an interesting new hobby? Why not try something completely different? Krav Maga is an exciting, up-and-coming martial art that you can learn right here in Prague.
This Israeli mixed-martial art is designed in a way that is accessible to everyone, regardless of age, gender, and physical strength. Drawing inspiration from the likes of Judo, Jiu-Jitsu, Boxing, and Aikido, this hybrid martial art is highly effective and highly adaptable.
Despite being Israeli in origin, Krav Maga actually has roots in former Czechoslovakia. Derived from the street-fighting experiences of Imi Lichtenfeld, Krav Maga is more martial than art. Lichtenfeld, who grew up in Bratislava, was a proficient athlete and wrestler. During the mid-to-late 1930s, Lichtenfeld made use of his training as a wrestler as he helped defend the Jewish quarter against Fascist groups in the city. In order to effectively defend himself and the Jewish community, Lichtenfeld used his knowledge of combined martial arts and put emphasis on attacks that quickly disabled and neutralized a threat.
In the late 1940s, following his move to Israel, Lichtenfeld started to give lessons on combat training in the Israeli Army. Having amassed over 12 years of experience in guerrilla confrontation and then working over 20 years as chief instructor of self-defense and close combat in the Israeli army, he improved his methods and in 1971 created Krav Maga as we know it today.
What is Krav Maga?
Like most martial arts, Krav Maga encourages students to avoid physical confrontation. If physical confrontation cannot be avoided, however, it promotes finishing a fight as quickly and efficiently as possible. Attacks are aimed at the most vulnerable parts of the body, and training is not limited to techniques that avoid severe injury. Because your aim is to incapacitate your attacker as quickly as possible, there are no strict rules in Krav Maga, so it’s easier to pick up. Krav Maga is often regarded as a martial art for the “real-world” which will help protect yourself against “real-life” attacks. The art of Krav Maga focuses not only on technique but also training of the mind and managing stress.
As with any martial art, however, Krav Maga is best learned in a group under the guidance of a well-trained instructor.
Where can you try Krav Maga in Prague?
Beginner’s classes are being offered at Kosa Gym in Vinohrady, from 17:15 to 18:30 on Mondays and Wednesdays. Classes will be held in English and are ideal for the expat community here. Previous martial arts experience is not needed. This class is for everyone.
Not only will you be learning the moves, but also about the psychology of the attacker and stress management techniques. Learning a martial art is not solely physical. With these classes, you can learn how to anticipate attacks and also how to manage your own stress. Practicing Krav Maga is a real opportunity to train both your body and mind.
Overall, you’ll be able to improve your fitness and get in shape in a fun, interesting, and sociable way.
The classes are run by the Krav Maga Global Organization, which is the largest and most professional organization in the world dealing with the art of Krav Maga. Currently, it has branches in more than 50 countries, including the Czech Republic. It is also the only Krav Maga organization in the world that is authorized by the Israeli Ministry of Defence to teach the Krav Maga system as an official Israeli military tactical system. If you want authentic training, this is the best way to get it. The Krav Maga Global Organization have also launched two non-profit projects for senior citizens and women.
If you’re interested but unavailable on Monday and Wednesday evenings, not to worry! The gym offers other classes too. If you would like more information, please contact the gym directly at ladislav.sedlak@krav-maga.cz
Learning a martial art is beneficial for a number of reasons. It does not only improve your physical strength, but also your strength of mind and spirit. Whether your motivation is to enhance personal safety or simply to get fit, Krav Maga can provide you with the right training to meet your goals.
Author: Holly Webb
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