How to Assume the Krav Maga Fighting Stance

Krav Maga, developed by the Israeli Defense Forces, is a self-defense system which has grown in popularity. However, learning forms is not part of krav maga, and it is not a martial art. The way to assume the krav maga fighting stance is similar to that of American boxing.

Instructions

    • 1

      Begin in a stance that is natural for you. Your legs are about shoulder-width apart with your arms at your sides.

    • 2

      Step back with your right foot to go into a fighting stance. With your knees bent, you stand on the ball of your right foot. Because you want to fight with your legs up under your hips, the distance between your feet is about shoulder-length across and about 6 inches from the lead leg to back leg.

    • 3

      Bring both arms up to about chin level. Your fists are parallel to each other, and your elbows are to the inside. In this way, you're able to guard your chin with your hands and your upper body with your forearms and elbows. You'll be ready to strike from the fighting stance.

    • 4

      Keep your back straight, your abs engaged and your eyes forward on your opponent.

    • 5

      Practice the krav maga fighting stance in front of a mirror from different angles, so you can correct your posture if necessary.