LEVEL 4

LEVEL 4
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

Purpose of the Course:

This course is designed to give attendees deeper knowledge of the techniques
and teaching methodologies associated with Krav Maga Level Four. The course
assumes the attendee is already familiar with the techniques through hands-on
training and through study of the videos available at www.kravmagaalliance.com.
During the 3-day course, we will improve and refine the attendee’s abilities, but
we will NOT teach the techniques from the beginning. Students who do not have
a basic understanding of the techniques should not attend.
As we refine the attendee’s understanding of the technique, we will focus on
teaching skills, building lesson plans, and other skills that help the attendee learn
to become an instructor.
The Level 4 certification involves fewer lectures. We assume that, by this time,
you have achieved an acceptable level of competency in basic teaching
methodology!
The Level 4 certification focus on the following areas:

• How to be a good assistant instructor

• Details of Level 4 techniques

• Fighting skills
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LEVEL 4
Manuals & Note Taking
Each student should come to the course with a copy of Complete Krav Maga by
Darren Levine & John Whitman. (Krav Maga For Beginners is recommended but
not required.)
Each student will be supplied with an additional manual containing lecture
materials and notes.
The Krav Maga Alliance program has a specific note-taking procedure specially
designed to help with the attendee’s understanding of the techniques.

Results
Exceptional performers will receive an enhanced Bronze, Silver, or Gold
certificate.
Bronze = acceptable physical and teaching abilities
Silver = exceptional physical and teaching abilities
Gold = outstanding physical and teaching abilities
All results will be posted at www.kravmagaalliance.com. Attendees who would
like to improve their ranking will be provided opportunities to do so.

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LEVEL 4
DAY ONE
0900 -- 1000 General Conditioning and Focus Mitts
- Thai Pads
1000 – 1230 Technique Review
- Chops (inside and outside)
- Mouth of Hand Punch
- Axe Kick
- Spinning Outside Slap Kick
- Spinning Heel Kick Sweep
with Heel Kick
- Sweep with Forward Kick
- Forward Sweep from Thai
Clinch
1230 – 13300 LUNCH
1330 – 1630 Technique Review
- Stick, Overhead Defense
- Stick, Baseball Bat Defense
- Stick, Off Angle Defense
- Ground: Choke while lying on
stomach
- Ground: Full Mount, Arms
Pinned
- Ground: Full Mount, Arms
Pinned Above Head
- Light Sparring
1630 - 1700 Lecture: “Qualities of a Good Assistant”
1700 - 1800 Mock Teaching #1
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LEVEL 4
Day Two
0900 – 1100 Technique Review
- Cavaliers
- General Defense v. Medium
to High Round Kick
- Sliding Defense v. High
Round Kick
- Plucking/Rowing Defense v.
Side Kick
- Redirecting Defense v. High
Side Kick
- Sliding Defense v. Spinning
Heel Kick
- Stopping Defense v. Spinning
Heel Kick
1100 – 1130 Lecture: “Building New Instructors”
1130 – 1230 LUNCH
1230 – 1530 Technique Review
- Kick v. Knife
- Kick v. Knife, Straight Stab
- Gun from the Front
- Gun to the Side of the Head
- Gun from the Side, Behind
Arm
- Gun from Behind (touching)
- Gun from the Side, Front of
Arm
- Gun from the Front, Pushing
Into Stomach
- Ground: Kimura from Guard
- Ground: Defense v. Kimura
from Guard
- Ground: Kimura from Side
- Ground: Defense v. Kimura
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from Side
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5:30 – 6:30pm Mock Teaching #3

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LEVEL 4
Day Three
0900 – 1200 Technique Review
- Ground: Arm Triangle from
Guard
- Ground: Defense v. Arm
Triangle
- Ground: Leg Triangle
- Ground: Defense v. Leg
Triangle
- Ground: Guillotine
- Ground: Defense v. Guillotine
- Takedowns: Simple
Takedown
- Takedowns: Double Leg
- Takedowns: Single Leg
- Sprawl Defense
1200 -- 1300 Mock Teaching #
1300 – 1330 LUNCH
1330 – 1600 Physical Test
1600 - 1700 Teaching Test

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LEVEL 4
HOW TO BE A GOOD ASSISTANT

The main goal of this lecture is to get you to understand how to be a good
assistant during lessons. The truth is, you might already know how to do this. If
so, good! Then this lecture will help you pass this knowledge on to people you
are training to become instructors.

Demonstration v. Training v. Reality

There are distinct differences here. Understanding these differences will help
assistant instructors make better demonstrations, which lead to better lessons.

- Reality: this is is what it is: ugly, dangerous, and not as smooth or clean as we
want it to be. This is why we train.
- Training should approach reality, but in a reasonable and safe way. Slow
training is more precise, fast training near “combat speed” may get sloppier.
- Demonstrations are different. They are designed to look and feel aggressive,
but they are also designed to present a clear and clean version of the
technique! As an attacker, you must remember this and help the instructor
achieve this goal.

How To Attack During Demonstrations

a. Strong attacks, but not full strength -- the attacks should be real and
strong, but they should be clean enough that they don’t cause the defender great
difficulties.
b. React to counterattacks -- you shouldn't "ham it up," but you should give
simple reactions to groin kicks, punches, etc. If you just stand there, both the
attacker and defender look foolish
c. Know where to move! -- you need to understand the techniques well
enough to put your body in the right spot to help the defender. Also, know when
to relax so that the defender can succeed without actually hurting you.
Examples:
- bearhug from the front
- bearhug behind lifting
- long gun live side (during the disarm)
- knife defenses (during the disarm)
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LEVEL 4
Listen to the Instructor
Very often when teaching, the instructor will want to make a particular point, or
highlight a particular detail of the technique. You should be actively listening to
him or her! If you do so, you will know where to move, or how to attack, without
being told. This cuts down on lesson time and organization.

Look Attentive
When the instructor is talking to the group, you should stand "at attention." Don't
look bored. Don't daydream.

A good assistant is an active participant in the lesson, not just a tackling dummy!

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LEVEL 4
Building New Instructors
Even if your new instructors have completed a Level 1 certification course,
jumping in to teach a full class can be intimidating. Unless you are in desperate
of instructors to cover classes, we recommend a specific “on ramp” program to
introduce these new instructors to the teaching environment.

INSTRUCTOR ON RAMP PROGRAM

1. Start by having them be the attacker or hold pads
2. Next stage, have them do the warm ups -- get them used to being in front of
the group and giving directions
3. When they are ready, YOU teach the lesson, but have them do the dry work
with the students. Then you step back in to direct the partner work.
4. Have them teach the lesson, with you acting as attacker.
5. Eventually, have them teach, while you assess from the side.
6. Have them teach without you in the room, or even on the premises. They will
not be at their best until you are out of the picture (they will always be nervous
with you there).

RECOMMENDATION: don't correct them during a lesson unless their mistakes

might cause injury. Give them comments off to the side, so that they don't look
bad in front of the students. It takes longer to rebuild the students’ confidence in
an instructor than it does to fix a technical error. You can always step in and fix a
student’s technique easily, so it’s better to fix the instructor off the mat.

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LEVEL 4
TECHNIQUE: Inside and Outside Chops
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #

Always made with the outside (pinky) edge of the hand, chops are used against a
narrow target, such as the side of the neck when the chin is down & the shoulder
up. The position of the palm (either down or up) is determined by the whether
the motion of the hand is inward or outward.

Teaching points:

• Chops are delivered on the same angles as hammerfist punch, with

similar body mechanics.
• Extend the fingers, flexing or tensing them to make the hand hard.
• Think of striking with the meaty portion of the outside of the hand, rather
than the fingers.
• On contact, rotate the hand, as in hammerfist. “Chop” into the target,
penetrating it, for extra power.
• If the movement is outward, the palm faces down. If the movement is
inward, the palm faces up.

NOTES & COMMON MISTAKES

Q: When would I use a chop?

A: Chops are used against narrow targets on the same plane as a hammerfist
punch. They are very effective against the neck, even if the shoulder is raised.

Notes and Observations:

Chops can be placed in context by showing Defense Against Straight Stab (Live
Side).
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LEVEL 4
TECHNIQUE: Ridge Hand
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #

A ridge hand is the opposite of a chop. The striking point is the thumb side of the
hand, instead of the pinky. With ridge hand, the elbow moves from an unbent to
a bent position, unlike with chops, where the elbow moves from bent to unbent.

Teaching points:

• Extend and tense the fingers.

• Tuck the thumb tightly under the palm.
• Shoot the hand toward the target, with the thumb side leading. On
contact, bend the elbow to protect the joint and add extra power to the
strike.
• As always, rotate the hip and shoulder into the strike, adding power.
•

NOTES & COMMON MISTAKES

Q: When would I strike with a ridge hand?

A: Ridge hand is useful when facing the target but on an extreme diagonal, as
with a very wide hook punch. Also, when defending against Headlock From the
Side, if the attacker's legs are close together, a ridge hand strike is a good
option, as the slap may not completely access the target.

Q: Why do I keep hitting my thumb?

A: Be sure to tense the hand and tuck the thumb tightly under the palm. You
may also rotate your hand slightly to take the blow more toward the top of the
hand, near the side of the index finger, rather than the thumb.

Notes and Observations:

Self Defense Application: This punch makes an effective and painful groin strike
against Headlock From the Side when the attacker's legs are too close together
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to allow an effective slap to the groin.

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LEVEL 4
TECHNIQUE: Mouth of Hand Punch
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #

Though the motion of this technique is similar to Ridge Hand, the strike is
performed with a closed fist. The striking point is the area at the top side of the
fist where the thumb and index finger meet. The strike moves at an upward or
lateral angle, and moves from the outside in or forward.

Teaching points:

• Make a fist.
• Swing your hand forward and upward, or laterally inward. All punching
principles apply (drive through the feet, pivot the hip, bring the shoulder
forward with the strike).
• On contact, bend the elbow, protecting the joint and adding power to the
strike.

NOTES & COMMON MISTAKES

Q: When would I use a Mouth of Hand punch?

A: The upward version of the punch useful for attacking the face when someone
shoots in for a takedown. It is also useful as a finisher after delivering knees or
front kick, once the attacker is doubled over. The lateral form of the strike can be
practical against an opponent moving to your side.
Notes and Observations:

Self Defense Application: Mouth of Hand punch is useful in defending against

Bearhug from the Front – Arms Free (No Space). Attack your assailant in the
face with the strike before applying leverage to the neck.
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LEVEL 4
TECHNIQUE: Axe Kick
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #

Axe Kicks are one of the riskier kicks in Krav Maga, as they expose the kicker to
danger. Also, they require considerable flexibility. However, the kick is useful in
groundfighting and certain other situations.

Teaching points:

• Raise your leg – usually the rear leg – just outside your target.
• When possible, protect your groin by raising the leg “across” the target. In
other words, if you kick with your right leg, raise it somewhat toward your
left.
• Raise the leg up relatively straight, bring it up over the target, then crash it
down hard.
• The striking point is the heel.
• Upon contact, bend the knee to protect the joint and add power.
• Press down and forward with your hip to keep your weight into the strike.

Variation: You can also make the kick by raising the knee high and chambering
the leg in tight, then kick outward toward the target, rather than raising the leg up
straight and across. However, this variation requires even more flexibility.

NOTES & COMMON MISTAKES

Q: When would I use an Axe Kick?

A: Axe Kick can be made to the shoulder or head of your opponent, but the
opening must be on the vertical plane.

Q: Doesn't this kick require a lot of flexibility?

A: Yes, if the kick is delivered to a high target. But Axe Kick is also useful
against an attacker who is doubled over, perhaps in response to a groin kick.
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Q: Is there a truly practical use for the Axe Kick?

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A: Yes. This kick is a practical option when you and your opponent are on the

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LEVEL 4
ground and your legs are facing him.

TECHNIQUE: Spinning Outside Slap Kick

“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #

This kick is most easily delivered when the target is in front of and slightly outside
the lead leg. Though having the target in this position requires to defender to use
less rotation to execute the kick, it is certainly possible to perform the kick with a
complete 360 degree spin. For training purposes we will assume a right-handed
stance.

Teaching points:

• From your fighting stance, pivot on your right foot, whipping your head and
shoulder around so that your shoulder passes the target. If necessary,
you can make a quick diagonal step with your lead foot to facilitate the
turn.
• DO NOT chamber the right leg until the shoulder and head have rotated.
• Chamber the knee as the head and shoulder pass the target, and give a
quick Outside Slap Kick, landing in opposite fighting stance. You should
land facing the target.

NOTES & COMMON MISTAKES

Q: Why can't I reach the target?

A: You are probably chambering the leg too soon, leading to a premature kick.
Wait to chamber the leg and release the foot until the shoulder passes the target.
First work on making a stable spin, then add the kick when the student can spin
comfortably to the point where the shoulder is passing the target.
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LEVEL 4

Spinning Heel Kick

Of the spinning kicks, Spinning Heel Kick is one of the more practical options.
The delivery of this kick requires less rotation than other spinning kicks, and the
striking point is a hard weapon, the heel. For training purposes we will assume a
right-handed stance.

Teaching points:
• From your fighting stance, pivot on your right foot, whipping your head and
shoulder around so that your shoulder passes the target. If necessary,
you can make a quick diagonal step with your lead foot to facilitate the
turn. Should you choose to make the step, it can be disguised by throwing
a left punch.
• As your right shoulder passes the target, deliver a heel kick.
• End in opposite fighting stance, facing the target.

Additional Notes:

Spinning Heel Kick requires a considerable amount of physical confidence to

execute, and many students find it to be particularly challenging. Therefore,
consider the following teaching method, which allows the trainee to master the
technique in stages:

1 – Have the trainee stand with the pad to his right side. He should make a
regular heel kick with the right leg.
2 – Now have him cross his right leg over his left, and make the Heel Kick from
this position.
3 – Next, have the student face the pad in fighting stance. The student now
spins (without the kick) until his shoulder points to the target. He should now be
in the same “crossed” position as in the previous step.
4 – Finally, the student combines all the movements: facing the pad, fluidly
delivering the spinning kick, ending in opposite fighting stance.

NOTES & COMMON MISTAKES

Q: I can't seem to spin far enough to strike the target. Why not?
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A: Many students fail to turn enough to make the kick. Have the focus on
spinning until their shoulder reaches the target before releasing the foot.
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LEVEL 4
Q: Why does my kick feel weak?

A: Again, the student is probably failing to turn far enough to drive powerfully
through the target. Focus on making a stable, complete spin before releasing the
foot.

Q: Instead of the heel, the side of my foot keeps striking the target. How do I fix
this?

A: The trainee is remaining too upright when making the kick, which results in an
Outside Slap Kick. Bending further over the hip will allow the heel to strike the
target.

Notes and Observations:

You will frequently see students lose power in the kick as they turn their back
toward the target on impact. To attack forcefully they must keep their side facing
the target as they make the strike.

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LEVEL 4
TECHNIQUE: Sweep with Forward Kick
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #

In this classic version of the sweep we assume the following: the situation has
placed us beside our opponent, either facing the same direction as our opponent,
or perpendicular to, and facing him.

Teaching points:

• Stand either beside your opponent, facing the same direction as he is, or
perpendicular to him, facing him.
• If your opponent's weight is not on his inside foot (the one closest to you),
create that situation by pulling on this inside arm. The weight MUST be on
his inside foot.
• With your inside arm (the one closest to your opponent), reach high
across his chest (or neck) and push him back and down.
• At the same time, sweep your inside foot forward, low enough that your
sole lightly brushes the ground. Your ankle should touch the back of his
ankle and your toes MUST point in the same direction as his.

Additional Notes:

You can intentionally put yourself in the correct position to make the sweep, if the
situation has not placed you there already.

• From an opposite fighting stance, burst forward and to the side of your
opponent. As you keep your hands up to defend against punches, cross
them, and begin turning your body so that you end up perpendicular to
your opponent, or facing the same direction as he is.
• Be sure the foot motion carries you close to your opponent, and quickly
make the sweep.
• This sweep is useful in law enforcement, security, and V.I.P. Protection,
particularly when the subject is belligerent, but has not yet escalated to
violence. Assuming the subject has focused his attention on a third party,
approach from the side and make the sweep.
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LEVEL 4
TECHNIQUE: Sweep with Heel Kick
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #

As the Heel Kick moves backward, this technique is the mirror image to Sweep
with Forward Kick. Again, place yourself beside your attacker, this time facing
the opposite direction.

Teaching points:

• Standing beside your attacker and facing the opposite direction as he,
grab both his shoulders with your hands. It is possible to make the sweep
by grabbing just one shoulder, but this is more difficult.
• Your outside foot should be in line with his feet. If you are too far away,
you risk being swept yourself.
• Use your hands to force his weight onto his inside foot and slightly back by
pulling his inside shoulder while pushing the outside shoulder.
• Kick your inside foot slightly forward past his, then quickly backward with a
heel kick similar to Offensive Back Kick. The kick is made low, the sole of
your foot brushing the floor, your ankle striking his ankle, your toes facing
away from him. Follow through with the movement of your foot, while
continuing to push/pull his shoulders with your hands.

NOTES & COMMON MISTAKES

Q: I can't get my foot deep enough in to sweep him. Why not?

A: You are probably standing too far from your opponent. You should be close
to your opponent, keeping your outside foot in line with him.

Q: I feel off balance when I try to perform the sweep. Why?

A: Again the student is probably too far from his attacker. Being closer to your
attacker will help you maintain stability.

Q: When I try to sweep my attacker, all I do is lift his leg. How do I get him to go
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down?
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A: Make sure your attacker's weight is on his inside foot with the push/pull

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LEVEL 4
motion of your hands. If his weight is on his outside foot, he will easily balance
himself on it when you sweep the inside foot.

Q: What is a real-world scenario in which I might put myself in position to

perform the sweep?

A: In a sparring session or a fight, when your opponent makes a left jab, make
an inside defense and then follow up with your own left jab, then a fast right
punch. Move into position as you throw the right punch, then go directly to the
sweep.

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LEVEL 4

TECHNIQUE: General Defense

“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #

We have a “general” defense against an oncoming high to medium round kick,

when the exact height of the strike can't be determined right away. This
techniques is the basis for many defenses against oncoming kicks, sticks, or
knives. Though the techniques can be made with the hands up or down, for
training purposes we will here assume the trainee's hands are down and he/she
is facing the attacker, in passive position.

Teaching points:

• As the kick comes on, the defender angles the body slightly toward the
oncoming strike, causing the shoulder to point toward the kick. Raise the
shoulder slightly to protect the chin.
• Straighten and tense the same side arm, palm toward your body.Bring the
opposite hand up to protect the face, keeping the elbow in tight to the
body.
• Tuck the chin.
• Ideally the defender should burst in to stifle the kick. If there is not time to
burst in toward the kick, lean the body toward the kick to brace yourself
against the blow.
• Counterattack, possibly with an elbow to the face,sweep, or trap the leg.

Note: Clenching the fist of the extended arm will further tense the arm and help
protect it from the impact of the kick. However, keeping the fingers extended is
the most probable action when defending a surprise attack.
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LEVEL 4
TECHNIQUE: Sliding Defense v. High Round Kick
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #

In addition to the previous variation of “stopping” defenses taught previously,

Krav Maga also offers a “sliding” defense which redirects the force of impact.
Redirecting the kick has its advantages over “eating” the blow, and we can make
this defense whether our hands are up but low due to error or design. For
training purposes we will assume the defender is in fighting stance with the
hands held a bit low due to fatigue or because he is baiting his opponent.

Teaching points:

• As the kick comes on, make a fist with your same side hand and stab it
diagonally downward, making a ramp of your arm. Your arm should be
just below the rising kick. The palm of the fist faces the floor.
• Simultaneously, protect your face with your other hand.
• As the kick begins to slide up your arm, raise the arm quickly, while
bursting in diagonally toward the kick.
• The attacker's leg should be forced to continue sliding up the arm,
stretching his groin and decreasing his power.
• Counterattack: trap the leg and punch, sweep, or throw the attacker off.

Notes:

• If the defense is made late, the “sliding” effect will not be possible, and the
technique will turn into a General Defense.
• The technique can be performed with the hands starting in a downward
position. Practice it both ways.

NOTES & COMMON MISTAKES

Q: Can the defense also be used against a kick of low or medium height?

A: No. For the sliding motion to happen, the kick must be delivered at the ribs or
higher.
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Q: Aren't I in danger of being kicked in the elbow?

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A: Yes. The defense must be made palm-side down to protect the elbow by

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LEVEL 4
forcing the kick to slide along the more muscular side of the forearm.

Q: What is the benefit of using this defense over other, less complicated kick
defenses?

A: This technique is in Blue Belt because it is indeed more complicated, and

requires an earlier recognition of the attack to make the defense. However, this
defense allows the trainee to make an instant counterattack, rather than
defending, then counterattacking. We always prefer to make a simultaneous
counterattack with our defense.

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LEVEL 4
TECHNIQUE: Defense v. High Side Kick
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #
This technique is very similar to Defense vs. High Front Kick.

Teaching points:
• Train from fighting stance.
• Using your forward hand, make a similar defense to Inside Defense,
striking with the meat portion of the fist instead of the palm. Strike hard
with the fist, attacking the kick, as opposed to gently redirecting it. The
strength of your strike will help defend against the possible oncoming Heel
Kick that was disguised as a Side Kick.
• Simultaneously make a small body defense diagonally forward toward the
kick.
• Burst in and begin delivering counterattacks. Though this is not your only
option, you should be in position to deliver a hammerfist with the
defending hand, and follow up with a strong straight punch.

NOTES & COMMON MISTAKES

Q: Can I make this defense from passive stance?

A: Yes, but your body defense must be much stronger. The defense is MUCH
easier from a fighting stance.

Q: The defense in the example is made on the kicker's dead side. If the kick
comes from the other side, should I switch the hand with which I defend?

A: No. Whenever possible the defense should be made with the forward hand.
The time and movement required to use the rear hand inhibits making a
successful defense.

Q: If I defend on the kicker's live side, don't I risk injuring myself by using a
single arm to defend against his shin?

A: No, because your arm is moving perpendicular to, not against, the shinbone.
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Notes and Observations:

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If the kicking student is not flexible enough to kick at the defender's head, have

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LEVEL 4
the defender go down on one knee while training.

TECHNIQUE: Plucking or Rowing Defense v. Low/Medium Side Kick

“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #

This defense can be made on either side of the attack, using either hand. In a
perfect world, the defense would be made on the attacker's live side (allowing the
defender to pluck at the foot rather than the heel) and on the defender's live side
(making the defense simpler, as the hips are already turned). However, the
world is imperfect, so we must practice on both sides, with both hands.

Teaching points:

• Begin in fighting stance.

• As the kick develops, reach out your hand, making sure to not allow it to
be kicked. The forearm moves parallel to the floor and the arm stays tight
to the body.
• As your hand passes the kick, pluck or “row” backwards at the foot.
• Simultaneously burst in, allowing the momentum of the pluck to help your
body accelerate forward as you advance. During the burst you will lead
with the opposite side of the body from the plucking hand, creating a body
defense.
• If you are defending to your dead side, the burst will be made by taking a
step with your back foot. If you are defending to your live side, you will
burst forward in your regular fighting stance.
• Make an immediate counterattack with your opposite hand.
• Make the technique quickly and explosively, using a quick “pickpocket”
motion.

NOTES & COMMON MISTAKES

Q: I don't understand which hand to use and why. Will you explain further?

A: The defender should use whichever hand he prefers based on the mechanics
of the movement at the time the defense is made. When we consider a
defender's body position while in fighting stance, it is easiest to defend against
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either kicking foot with the back hand, as that hip is already out of the way.
However, it is also easier to pluck the attacker's foot on his live side, rather than
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the dead side, where we would be plucking at the heel.

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LEVEL 4

Q: What if my attacker makes a low side kick to my knee or shin?

A: Be sure to bend the knee while raising it in defense. Side kicks to your bent
knee will cause little damage, while taking a side kick on your straight knee,
especially if your weight is on that leg, can cause very serious injury.

Q: Can I make this defense against the other leg?

A: Yes, but in that case you will perform more of a “row” against the foot, not
pluck against the heel.

Notes and Observations:

Students often have great difficulty defending side kicks. These kicks are
powerful and difficult to defend due to their straight line of attack & the changing
nature of the weapon (the leg going quickly from bent to straight). Have students
practice defending all side kicks slowly to train their eyes to recognize the attack.

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LEVEL 4
TECHNIQUE: Kick Defense v. Side Kick (Sideways to Attacker)
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #
Teaching points:

• As the kicker, who is to the side of the defender, prepares to deliver a side
kick, the defender makes a slight tactical retreat, putting his weight on his
outside leg.
• As you shift your weight to your outside leg, raise your inside leg as
though preparing to throw a side kick of your own.
• As you raise the leg, make a simultaneous plucking motion as in Low to
Medium Sidekick.
• Burst in with an immediate counterattack, delivering a side kick, front kick,
or straight punch.

NOTES & COMMON MISTAKES

Q: Why must I make both a hand and a leg defense?

A: Making the simultaneous defenses covers the most area. The leg defense
protects the knee and thigh against kicks to that area, while the hand defense
protects the middle of the body. Making a tactical retreat creates a body defense
by taking target out of range.

Q: I've always been told to advance toward the danger and neutralize the threat.
Why am I now retreating?

A: The retreat not only creates a body defense, but gives us the time we need to
make an effective counterattack. Do not make a large retreat, or flee from the
kick. Create just enough space to avoid the power of the kick and make your
own attack.

Notes and Observations:

Students often have great difficulty defending side kicks. These kicks are
powerful and difficult to defend due to their straight line of attack & the changing
nature of the weapon (the leg going quickly from bent to straight). Have students
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practice defending all side kicks slowly to train their eyes to recognize the attack.
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LEVEL 4
TECHNIQUE: Sliding Defense v. Spinning Heel Kick
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #
You will recognize the principles and dynamics of this defense. They are the
same as Sliding Defense vs. Round Kick.

Teaching points:

• As the kick comes on, burst diagonally in toward to attack, making a fist
with your same side hand and stab it diagonally downward, making a
ramp of your arm. Your arm should be just below the rising kick. The
palm of the fist faces the floor.
• Simultaneously, protect your face with your other hand against a spinning
backfist or elbow.
• As the kick begins to slide up your arm, raise the arm quickly.
• The attacker's leg should be forced to continue sliding up the arm,
stretching his groin and decreasing his power.
• Counterattack: trap the leg and punch, sweep, or throw the attacker off.

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LEVEL 4
TECHNIQUE: Kick v. Spinning Heel Kick
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #
Though this defense assumes you have recognized the attack as it begins, you
may make the defense from passive or fighting stance. For training purposes,
we will assume a fighting stance.

Teaching points:

• Assume the attacker is kicking with his right leg.

• As the attacker spins, kick him with your right foot using a Defensive Front
Kick.
• Your target is the top of the your attacker's thigh, just below his right
buttock.
• Be sure to keep your hands up in case you have made your defense late
and the kick comes high.

NOTES & COMMON MISTAKES

Q: Does it really matter where I kick my attacker, as long as I kick him?

A: Yes, the thigh directly below the buttocks is a relatively stable target,and
allows for the greatest success.

Q: Can I kick with either leg?

A: You may send out whichever leg is fastest. Be aware, however, that in this
example defending with the left leg would have left the trainee's groin exposed to
a kick if he failed to make the defense. Kicking with the right leg continues to
protect the groin if the defender is late.

Notes and Observations:

This defense is often painful for the attacker, even when delivered weakly. As
you see attackers delivering progressively weaker kicks, as a matter of pain
compliance, encourage them to continue making strong kicks, and be prepared
to switch them when necessary.
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LEVEL 4
TECHNIQUE: Forward Roll Into Backward Roll (High Speed)
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #
Should a defender trip while moving at high speed, he may not be able to finish a
forward roll with control. It may then be appropriate to finish with a backward roll.

As will all roll descriptions, we will assume a right handed trainee leading with the
right shoulder. Left handed trainees should reverse all directions.

Teaching points:

• Begin at a run.
• Make an initial high-speed roll.
• As you complete the forward roll and your body begins to rise, continue to
go with the momentum as you pivot your body quickly around to face the
opposite direction.
• Make a backward roll, being sure to roll over one shoulder, NOT over your
head.
• Rise up into fighting stance.

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LEVEL 4
TECHNIQUE: Stick Defenses General Comment
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #
A “stick” is defined here as any striking weapon that does not have a sharp edge
or point. These blunt objects include, but are not limited to actual sticks,
baseball bats, pool cues, tire irons, hammers, etc., but can even include rocks or
other small hand held weapons. Though not all these weapons (such as a rock
or brick) posses the distance-related dangers of a bat, the defense for all “sticks”
remains the same.

A great advantage the “stick” offers is reach. We MUST eliminate this advantage
by bursting in strongly when making our defense.

Should we be subject to a surprise attack an not have time to burst in, our
defense must still be effective. To this end, the following principles will also
apply.

Against an overhead attack, we keep the elbows in tight and stab toward the
inside of the attacker's wrist to avoid creating an angle against the stick.

Against a baseball bat swing, we defend with the meat part of the arm (not the
elbow!) facing the stick, and use the opposite hand to protect the face.

Regarding Takeaways: The defense against a stick attack requires us to burst in

close to our attacker, negating the danger of the stick. Therefore, Takeaways,
while important elements of a complete mastery of stick defense, are secondary
to the initial defense.

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LEVEL 4
TECHNIQUE: Stick Defense v. Overhead Swing
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #
Overhead Swing refers to attacks coming down at an angle as well as directly
overhead. What defines an attack as “overhead” is that it is coming at us from
above our shoulder line.

As this defense offers the most overall protection, it should be your “go-to”
defense for overhead attacks.

Teaching points:

• As the attack is made and your hands move reflexively toward your head,
keep the blades of your hands down and your fingers extended (if your
attacker is right handed, your right hand can be in a fist).
• Keep your arm straight and prevent presenting an angle to the stick by
keeping your elbows TIGHT to your body.
• As your arms come up, shift your weight forward. This will cause your
body to lean forward even before your feet move, helping you avoid the
oncoming stick.
• Bring your head down, but keep your eyes in the fight.
• Stab out (forward and up) with your defending hand to the inside of your
attacker's wrist. If you are late and forced to defend against the stick you
should be alright as long as you have kept your arm straight, so as not to
move in at an angle against the stick.
• Simultaneously, punch your attacker's face with your other hand (usually
the right hand).
• As you make the defense, protect your head by keeping your shoulders
squared to your attacker.
• If possible, burst in as you make the defense.
• Immediately upon completing the defense, grab your attacker's shoulder in
a modified stance for knees and deliver knee strikes.

Takeaways:

#1 – If you feel the attacker soften up in response to your knee strikes, slide your
left hand down his right arm until you reach his hand. Assuming the stick is still
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in his hand, grasp it with your left hand while delivering a powerful palm heel
strike to the side of his head with your right hand. Immediately strip the stick
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#2 – Reaching back with your left hand, strongly grab the outer end of the stick.
Pop the end of the stick which the attacker still grasps out of his hand by
aggressively making a sharp “U” shape with your end of the stick.

Note: Once the student has mastered the basic defense, have the attackers
strike at them from different angles. The defenders must strive to stab just inside
the striking hand and not just straight up.

NOTES & COMMON MISTAKES

Q: Is my main goal in this defense to avoid the stick?

A: Bursting in alone will help you avoid the stick. The defense works against the
stick itself, as long as you keep your elbow in tight.

Q: Why do I keep my elbow tight to my body?

A: When you raise the elbow (similar to a 360 Defense) you create an angle in
your arm that the stick can strike, injuring the arm.

Q: What do I do first, raise my arm, lean forward, or burst in?

A: Raise the arm, though you will lean forward almost simultaneously. As it is
faster to lean the body forward than to move the entire body in, bursting comes
last, though it happens very quickly.

Q: Why do I keep my shoulders square?

A: Keeping the shoulders square redirects the stick away from the head. Resist
the desire to get there “early” by leading with the defending hand and shoulder,
as this exposes the head to the stick.

Q: When do I begin to counterattack with knee strikes?

A: As soon as you feel the stick is redirected, counterattack. Be aware of a

possible tendency to “dive” toward the attacker, which will take you so close that
it is difficult to grab on for knees.
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Notes and Observations:

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*After the student has the basic lesson down, have them fine tune the defense
by instructing him to keep his wrist turned slightly inward, protecting the
small bones on the outside of the wrist away from the stick.

*When the attacker begins to modify his attacks so that they come in from
different angles, the defender MUST modify the angle of the stabbing portion of
his defense relative the stick's current position. Failure to do so puts the arm at
risk by creating an angle at which the stick can strike the arm.

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LEVEL 4
TECHNIQUE: Stick Defense v. Overhead Swing Off-Angle (One Step)
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #
It is almost always preferable to defend overhead swings from the live side.
However, in the instance that this is impossible to achieve, we can opt to make
an off-angle, or dead side, defense.

Teaching points:

• As the stick swings toward you, stab your near-side hand forward, making
sure not to create an angle against the stick.
• As you raise your hand in defense, simultaneously square your shoulders
toward the attacker and lean forward to get past the stick.
• Burst forward, leading with your outside foot, to close the distance
between you and get past the stick.
• While redirecting the stick, pivot in the direction of the stick and quickly
trap or cover it. Trap the arm and counterattack with a blitz of punches.

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LEVEL 4
TECHNIQUE: Stick Defense v. Overhead Swing Off-Angle (Two Steps)
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #
To put more distance between the defender and any possible third party
approaching form behind, make the following adjustments to the previous
defense.

Teaching points:

• Burst in with your inside foot.

• Redirect the stick while simultaneously stepping with your left foot and
counterattacking.

NOTES & COMMON MISTAKES

Q: Why do we prefer a live side defense over a dead side defense?

A: The dead side defense offers less overall protection, particularly when the
swing goes from an overhand to a baseball bat swing. While the live side
defense is preferred, the dead side defense must also be mastered in case the
live side defense is impossible.

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LEVEL 4
TECHNIQUE: Stick Defense v. Baseball Bat Swing
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #
Horizontal Swing defense stops the attack, instead of redirecting the strike, as
with Overhead Swing. However, the essential elements of leaning forward and
bursting in remain. If there is any doubt as to which attack you are subject to,
perform the Defense Against Overhead Swing. For training purposes we will
assume a right handed attacker.

Teaching points:

• As the attack comes on lean your body and turn your left shoulder toward
the attacker's arm/shoulder.
• Simultaneously extend your left arm out and down, the meat part of the
arm (not the elbow) facing the strike. Bring your opposite hand up to
protect your face.
• As you extend and tense the left arm, remember to crunch the shoulder up
against the jaw in a protective movement, even as you extend the arm
down.
• Burst forward toward the stick, if time allows. On impact “pop” your arm
strongly forward to further protect you. If you are defending against the
stick itself, this will help lessen the power of the stick's blow by meeting it
further up its line of attack.
• After impact, immediately trap the stick arm with your left hand while
simultaneously delivering a right elbow to the attacker's face.
• Continue to counterattack with knee strikes.

Takeaways:

#1 – Once you feel the attacker soften up under your barrage of counterstrikes,
reach over with your right hand, grab the end of the stick and snap it strongly
downward and out of the attacker's handing by creating a “U” shape with your
end of the stick.

#2 – If you cannot reach the stick, clamp your right hand over the stick-wielding
hand, slide your left hand to his wrist, and perform a modified cavalier.
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NOTES & COMMON MISTAKES

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Q: My attacker is swinging from a different angle every time. Should I burst in

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LEVEL 4
toward his arm or his shoulder?

A: Concentrate only on bursting in inside the stick, which is consistent in

principle with Defense Against Overhead Swing.

Q: Sometimes my instructor punches forward with his right hand. Why am I not
being instructed to do that?

A: This variation of the technique is safe only if you're certain your head is past
the stick. Do not endanger your head by focusing on striking with the right hand.
Address the immediate danger first!

Q: Why lean in before bursting in?

A: It is faster to lean the body in than to move the entire body, so we lead with
the lean-in.

Q: Will the defense still work if my attacker swings two-handed?

A: Yes. In fact, this attack makes the defense even more painful for the
attacker.

Notes and Observations:

Beginners will often try to lean in by bending at the waist, which will not take
them as far inside the stick. Tell them to lean their weight forwards while
keeping their bodies as rigid as a flagpole, and let them practice this motion.

In an effort not to hit their partner in the face, students will often make very
poor elbow strikes. Allow them to practice in slow motion to help them gain
confidence to perform a proper strike. 36
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LEVEL 4
TECHNIQUE: Knife Defenses General Comment
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #
There are three basic weapons we defend against: gun, stick, and knife. Of the
three, assuming our attacker is within touching distance, knives present the most
difficulty in terms of defense. Small changes in the attack can dictate large
differences in how we defend.

While a gun can be grabbed, a knife cannot.

While we can greatly diminish the danger of a stick by moving in close, a knife is
obviously still dangerous when we move closer to it.

Our preference when faced with a knife is to kick, in order to maintain distance.
As a general rule, when the knife is brandished low, we kick high. When the
knife is high, we kick low.

We begin our fundamental understanding of knife defense with the knowledge of

the three common ways to brandish a knife. They are:

Regular (overhand) Stab

Underhand Stab
Straight Stab

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LEVEL 4
TECHNIQUE: Kick Defense v. Knife at a Distance
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #
All kick defenses assume the defender has recognized the attack while the
attacker is at a distance and closing on him. If we have not recognized the attack
in time and the distance is closed, we do not have enough space to kick.

Even though we assume for training purposes that we have recognized the
attack in time to kick, it is unlikely in the extreme that we will have time to
recognize a particular hold our assailant has on the weapon. Therefore,
regardless of the line of attack, we are making our kick straight out. If your
assailant brandishes a knife, don't take time to think – KICK!

Teaching points:

• As the attacker draws closer, burst strongly forward with an aggressive

kick similar to a defensive front kick.
• Make the kick in place if there is no time to advance.
• Be sure to make yourself as long as possible to avoid the stroke of the
knife!
• Immediately create distance. If it is impossible to run, look for an object to
use as a weapon or a shield.
• If it is impossible to run or create distance, continue with a blitz of
counterattacks while controlling the knife arm with your hands.

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LEVEL 4
TECHNIQUE: Kick v. Knife Straight Stab (Bailing Out)
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #
This defense is used when the defender has recognized the oncoming Straight
Stab in time and wants to move away from the line of attack. If you see an attack
coming, but do not recognize the line of attack, don't guess. Use the previous
kicking defense.

Teaching points:

• As the attacker bursts in to stab, step diagonally forward with your left foot
and shift your body aggressively to the left, “bailing out” of the line of
attack. Take your right shoulder toward your left knee while keeping your
weight into your counterattack.
• As you make the body defense, counterattack by making a round kick with
the ball of your foot to your attacker's groin.
• Quickly recoil and create space. Immediately run or find an object to use
as a weapon or a shield.

Additional points:

It is no longer a requirement of the techniques to control the knife and make

further counterattacks, as this is not always realistic in real life. However, should
you choose to do so, the method follows:

• As you recoil from the round kick, chamber the leg for side kick.
• Deliver a side kick to the attacker's knee while simultaneously controlling
the knife hand with your right hand.

NOTES & COMMON MISTAKES

Q: Wouldn't an advancing kick take me closer to the knife?

A: Not in this case. An attacker can not stab you until he reaches you. In this
case you are controlling the distance before he has had a chance to make his
strike, while moving off his line of attack.
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Q: Why kick with the ball of my foot?

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A: Assuming the attacker is right handed, he will likely stab with the right hand

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LEVEL 4
and attempt to add power to his strike by also stepping forward with the right foot,
which would probably block the movement of your regular round kick. By making
the strike with the ball of your foot you are able to reach around the “defense” of
his forward leg.

Notes and Observations:

Students often find it difficult to allow their bodies to bend over enough for a
proper bail out and will try to remain upright. Have such students begin training
by over-emphasizing the bending motion of the bail out, taking the shoulder as
low as the knee or even the floor until their body “gets it”.

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LEVEL 4
TECHNIQUE: Knife Defense – 360 Degree Defense v. Knife Attacks
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #
Though hand defenses against knife are usually covered in Brown Belt, we begin
their introduction here. The trainee makes his regular 360 Defenses while the
attacker makes his usual attack holding a knife. Attacks should come one at a
time. Emphasize to the defender the importance of keeping his body far enough
away so that the knife cannot reach him.

The attacker can also make straight stabs, with the defender making inside
defenses. Emphasize to your students that this is only an introduction to hand
defenses against knife.

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LEVEL 4
TECHNIQUE: Defense Against Handgun General Comment
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #
Being threatened with a handgun represents a grave threat. If you believe
compliance with your attacker's demands will result in your safety, do not hesitate
to comply. No possession is worth your life. However, if the attacker's intent is
to kidnap or kill you regardless of your level of compliance, the defender must be
able to perform a realistic defense.

An important point in our favor is that most gun crimes happen within 3-5 feet of
the defender, offering us a realistic opportunity to defend. Whether the gunman's
intention in getting this close is to terrorize, intimidate, or hide their actions from
witnesses, we have our window of opportunity. Outside of the 5 foot range,
defense against handgun becomes more problematic.

PRINCIPLES:

The most fundamental principle of gun defense: GET OUT OF THE LINE OF
FIRE AND DO NOT GET BACK IN! Every technique adheres to this cardinal
rule.

Additionally, all the following handgun defenses will adhere to this sequence of
events:

1 – Redirect the Line of Fire

2 – Control the Weapon
3 – Counterattack
4 – Disarm

This system is sometimes described by the Acronym “RCAT” for

1 – Redirect the Line of Fire

2 – Control the Weapon
3 – Attack
4 – Takeaway

You will find that step 2 and step 3 frequently overlap.

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Like every Krav Maga technique, these defenses work under stress. They must
also work when the attacker varies the attack to some extent. By adhering to
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these principles, we ensure that the smallest amount of defenses work against

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the largest variety of attacks.

MENTALITY OF THE ATTACKER:

Aside from assassination, gun attacks are made with a secondary goal in mind.
The attacker may want the thrill of terrifying or completely controlling another
human being, or he may want to rob or rape you. Whatever his ultimate reason,
the gun is the mean to his desired end. This allows us an opportunity to make
our defense.
NOTE: In subsequent levels we will deal with gunmen who's goal is simply to
draw and shoot you. Blue belt deals with gunmen who present a threat of
robbery/takeover.

REACTION:

Most people believe the defender is racing gunman's trigger finger. That is a
race no defender can win.

The defender is actually racing against the gunman realizing he should pull the
trigger, and then his actual firing of the gun. It is the race of the defender's action
against the attacker's reaction. Therefore the initial movements of gun defenses
must be as indistinguishable as possible.

Each of the following gun defenses adhere to these basic fundamental principles,
yet allow us to defend against every common type of gun threat.

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LEVEL 4
TECHNIQUE: Gun From The Front
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #

Teaching points:

• REDIRECT: As the gun is presented, send your left hand to the weapon
in a straight line. Put the side of your index finger on the side of weapon
and move the weapon in a straight horizontal line to the right. The gun
should move off your body in a line parallel to the floor. Any diagonal or
vertical movement of the gun causes it to be pointed toward your body for
a longer period of time. As the gun passes away from your body it first
moves away from the most vital areas toward the least vital areas until the
gun is completely off-line. THE REDIRECTION OF THE WEAPON MUST
INVOLVE NO OTHER MOVEMENT ON YOUR PART. DO NOT TENSE,
LEAN, SHIFT YOUR FEET, OR MOVE YOUR HAND TOWARD THE
GUN IN AN ARC OF ANY DEGREE.
• REDIRECT: At the instant your hand touches the gun and begins to
redirect, make a body defense by moving your left shoulder forward. In
addition to getting your body off-line faster, it serves to put your motion
and weight into the attacker before your feet have had time to move.
• CONTROL: As the muzzle of the weapon passes outside the line of your
body, grab the gun sharply with your redirecting hand and “punch” it down
so that it now points 90 degrees away from you and is roughly parallel with
the floor. You should already be driving your weight down onto the
weapon. As you redirect, your right hand can be coming up to punch, as
long as you ensure that it is kept close to your body and therefore out of
the line of fire.
• Burst forward with your feet, so that you end up in a fighting stance, your
left foot just outside the gunman's right foot. As you burst in “punch” the
weapon down, driving your weight down upon it. The gun should end up
in front of your left thigh, with your weight driving strongly into it.
• COUNTERATTACK: As you burst in deliver a right punch to the attacker's
face while continuing to drive your weight onto the weapon.
• DISARM: Recoil your punch and keep your hand out of the line of fire by
sliding it along your own body. Reach down and grab the weapon at the
hammer or the back of the slide.
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• DISARM: Rotate the gun sharply at 45 degrees to break it from the

attacker's grip. This may break the attacker's finger. NOTE: In training
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DO NOT let the students put their fingers in the triggers!

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• DISARM: As soon as the weapon has rotated and his grip has loosened,
pull the weapon sharply toward you. Note that your feet have not moved!
• As soon as you possess the weapon, move back to a safe distance.

NOTES & COMMON MISTAKES

Q: Why is it so important to put my weight on the gun?

A: To maintain control of the weapon. As soon as you touched the weapon, the
gunman was fighting for his life, too. He will try to pull back, regain control of the
gun and put you back into the line of fire. Keep your weight on the gun
regardless of his actions! He may fight for the gun, retreat, or fall down because
of your punch to his face. Be prepared to move your feet and do whatever is
necessary to keep your weight on the weapon.

Q: Should I punch more than once?

A: Possibly. If your weight is firmly on the weapon you may deliver more than
one punch to the face. However, we would like to get two hands on the weapon
as soon as possible, so make your decision based on the situation.

Q: When do I make the body defense?

A: The body defense begins just as your hand is reaching the gun. If you make
the body defense too early you will telegraph the defense.

Q: Will the gun fire?

A: Probably, if there is a round already chambered. However, after the initial

shot further rounds are unlikely, as the grab will inhibit the slide of a semi-
automatic and probably inhibit the cylinder of a revolver. Keep in mind however,
that unlikely does not equal impossible. The defense keeps the barrel away from
the defender in case subsequent shots are fired.

Q: If the gun fires will it burn my hand?

A: No. Instructors, you will get this question a lot, and the answer is no. Even if
the gun fires several rounds it still will not burn your hand.
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Notes and Observations:

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1 – Once students have mastered the basic defense you must insist that they
continue fighting even if they make a mistake. This is a habit that can save their
lives. Though we should always strive to instill this quality in our students, now is
when it is most important. Keep fighting! Try to remember to keep the line of fire
off your body, but keep fighting no matter what.

2 – During practice students are frequently in such a hurry to gain possession of

the weapon that they back up before they truly have the gun in their grasp.
Demonstrate the consequences of this action by having your assistant hold
strong while you back up. The weapon will end up pointed at you.

3 – After the basic lesson, introduce the idea of the gunman giving orders that
command movement such as “put your hands up”. Such commands offer us an
opportunity to begin the defense.

4 – The defense can be made from a variety of distances, angles, and heights.
While we make a slight amendment to accommodate a gun pointed at the head,
the principles of the defense remain the same.

5 – When first learning the defense, students have a tendency to redirect the gun
very far away from their bodies. While giving illusion of safety, this prevents the
defender from putting his weight onto, and therefore controlling, the weapon.
Remind the students to push the gun down the instant they are out of the line of
fire.

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LEVEL 4
TECHNIQUE: Gun From the Front (To The Head)
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #
The single difference between this technique and regular Gun From The Front, is
that we make an earlier body defense, moving the head before the hand has
reached the gun.

We can do this because the movement required to get the head out of the line of
fire is quicker and easier than moving the entire body.

There is no exact explanation we can give for the timing of the movements, as
they are measured in fractions of a second. If someone insists on clarification,
you can say that the head moves when the hands are about 2/3 of the way to the
gun, but be sure to explain that this is only an approximation.

The simplest and best way to present the variation is this: since we can move the
head earlier and more easily, we do.

All other principles of regular Gun From The Front apply.

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LEVEL 4
TECHNIQUE: Gun To The Side Of The Head
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #
For training purposes we will assume that the gun is in the attacker's right hand.
Except for the initial redirection, the principles of Gun From the Front apply

Teaching points:

• As the threat is made, slide your left hand up along your body, keeping
your elbow back.
• As your hand rises, make a small body defense by tilting your head
backward. The timing of the head movement is early, before the hand has
completely reached the gun (similar to Gun From The Front To The
Head).
• With your fingers pointing up, redirect the gun by driving it forward and
grab it.
• Immediately turn the gun sharply about 90 degrees away from you and
push it down and into your attacker as in Gun From The Front.
• Turn your body and burst toward your attacker.
• Continue as you would with Gun From The Front.

NOTES & COMMON MISTAKES

Q: The technique is shown with the gun touching the head. Can I still perform
the defense if the gun is not touching my head?

A: Yes. You may find it easier to defend against a gun which is not pressed
against your head, as you will have more space to move. However, if the gun is
pressed against your head, you do not need to see it – you know where it is. If
you can't feel or see the gun it can be more difficult to get your hand on it.
However, a natural reaction to a threat is to turn to see it, so you can make a
slight move in this direction. You should however, also continue to practice
without looking at the gun.

Q: I have muscular shoulders and have difficulty moving my hand straight up my

body. Is there a modification that will help me?
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A: This is a common problem for muscular men. However, by making the head
defense early, you are actually bringing your hand up in front of your body, which
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should pose no difficulty.

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Notes and Observations:

Students sometimes fail to pivot sufficiently and therefore weaken their punch by
striking across their bodies. Remind them that as soon as they've redirected the
gun they must aggressively turn toward their attacker as they push the weapon
strongly down.

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LEVEL 4
TECHNIQUE: Gun From the Side, In Front of The Arm
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #
This is the only instance in the system where we redirect, control, disarm, and
THEN counterattack. While this is not the ideal order of events, it is the most
practical and effective action from this position.

Teaching points:

• As the gun is being put to your side (in front of your arm), slide your close
hand straight up along your body. Your palm is facing forward, your
fingers are down.
• Making contact at the attacker's wrist so that your palm acts as a wall that
prevents the attacker's wrist from bending, push the hand forward to
redirect the line of fire.
• Simultaneously, contract your abs and make a diagonal step toward the
attacker. As you advance, slide your outside hand along your body,
avoiding the line of fire, then grab the barrel of the gun. Grab with your
fingers down and your thumb up, keeping your elbows in tight. This will
prevent the gun from being turned back on you.
• As you are taking control of the weapon your knees should be bent and
your weight in the balls of your feet.
• Pull against the wrist with your inside hand while turning your outside
shoulder sharply in, rotating the gun in and slightly down. This should
break the attacker's hold on the gun, while the downward motion causes
additional pain to his thumb.
• Keeping yourself out of the line of fire, pull the gun toward you with your
outside hand while punching the gunman in the face with your inside
hand.
• Continue your counterattacks by punching the attacker in the face with the
muzzle of the gun.
• Quickly retreat to a safe distance.

NOTES & COMMON MISTAKES

Q: Why must I make contact over the attacker's wrist?

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A: If you make contact higher up the arm and push the attacker's wrist may
make an involuntary and mechanically correct bend, causing the gun to point
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back toward you. Your palm on his wrist prevents this from happening.

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LEVEL 4

Q: Why must I concentrate on turning my shoulder when I take the gun?

A: Adding the force of your body's support to the movement adds a great deal of
strength to the defense. Using only the movement of your arm may not be
enough to capture the gun. Remember, he wants to keep it.

Q: Is the second strike to the face (with the gun) optional?

A: Yes. Some trainees feel uncomfortable putting the gun so close to the
attacker's reach once posses the weapon, and with good reason. However,
being struck in the face with the barrel of a gun is extremely painful and
debilitating. The strike is much more devastating than a punch you will be able to
deliver with your close side hand. Another option is to knee the rear leg
immediately once you have possession of the weapon.

Q: If the gun is not touching my body do I still make this defense?

A: No. Unless the gun is very close to your body (almost touching), you should
use the Defense Against Gun From The Front, which is easier.

Notes and Observations:

1 – Explain to students that taking a diagonal step is a key part of the defense. It
takes us very close to the gun, making it harder to redirect the weapon toward
us, and should the attacker pull the gun back, we will be there to disarm him.

2 – Some students push the gun very far away from their bodies, reducing their
ability to control the weapon. Have them draw their elbows toward themselves,
so that the gun is held about a forearms length away from their bodies.
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LEVEL 4
TECHNIQUE: Gun From The Front, Pushing Into The Stomach
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #
Though this attack resembles regular Gun From The Front, the gunman has
made it difficult for us to redirect the weapon by pushing it into our abdomen
(perhaps to force us to back up).

In this case, pivot the hips to allow the gun room to be moved and make Gun
From the Side, In Front Of The Arm.

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LEVEL 4
TECHNIQUE: Gun From The Side, Behind The Arm
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #
Teaching points:

• As the gun is placed behind your arm, make a small redirection of the
weapon with that arm, by pushing the gun off-line, behind you.
• Quickly turn toward the gunman, reaching toward him with your inside
hand (the one that made the redirection), your arm underneath your
attacker's. Reach very deeply, even before you've begun to move your
feet.
• As you reach burst in VERY DEEPLY. Your feet should land outside the
gunman's.
• With your reaching hand, capture the gunman's forearm by bending your
arm at the elbow and bringing your fist tightly to your chest.
• With your rear arm, deliver an elbow strike to the attacker's face. While
delivering the elbow strike you can slide down the captured gunman's arm
to capture the wrist rather than the forearm. Maintain a very tight hold!
• Continue to counterattack with knees.
• With your free hand, reach over, pinky up, and grab the barrel of the gun.
Snap down hard with your elbow to break his grip on the weapon. To get
his finger off the trigger, lift the gun up.
• Deliver a parting elbow strike and create distance.

Additional note:

*You MUST keep a very tight grip on the captured arm so that the gunman does
not slide out when he pulls back. Press your fist tightly to your chest and drive
your shoulder (not your whole upper body) forward.

NOTES & COMMON MISTAKES

Q: Why must I burst in so deeply?

A: As you redirect the weapon, the gunman will probably instinctively pull the
gun back toward himself, which will put you back in the line of fire if you don't
burst in. In addition to keeping you out of the line of fire, bursting in allows you to
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get deep enough to take control of the weapon.

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Q: Can I deliver a punch instead of an elbow?

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LEVEL 4

A: Unless you are much shorter than your attacker, no. Delivering an elbow
forces the defender to stay tight to his attacker and therefore maintain control of
the gun.

Q: Why is the “handcuff” technique so important?

A: This traps and controls the weapon as the gunman struggles. Also, if your
elbow strike causes him to fall backward or to the ground, this hold allows you to
maintain possession of the gun.

Notes and Observations:

1 – Students often unconsciously “wind up” their arm as they prepare the
redirection. This is unnecessary, as the redirection can be very small.

2 – Some students will “stutter step” their feet before they burst in. Have them
practice slowly if necessary to simply turn and burst, making no unnecessary
movements.

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LEVEL 4
TECHNIQUE: Gun From Behind (Touching)
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #
This technique is similar to that of Gun From The Side Behind the Arm, with a
couple of key distinctions.

Teaching points:
• As you feel the gun against your back, look behind you! You must
determine which hand the gun is in, not what the hand is holding.
• Leading with your arm, turn deeply around enough to take your body out
of the line of fire and redirect the gun.
• If the gun is held low, your arm will make the redirection as you make your
body defense. If the gun is held high, the arm will have no effect on the
gun, but it will still help your body rotate.
• As part of the body defense, your body moves slightly back toward your
attacker as you rotate, even before you move your feet.

NOTES & COMMON MISTAKES

Q: Why don't I care “what the hand is holding” when I feel a weapon against my
back?

A: The defense works regardless of the weapon held. It may be a gun, knife,
finger, broken bottle, screwdriver, etc. The defense is the same.

Q: What if the gun is in the other hand?

A: The defense is still applicable. However, by going to the dead side, you are
no longer putting your body between the the gun and the gunman's free hand.
Therefore, disarm as quickly as possible.

Notes and Observations:

In their rush to make the defense, sometimes students fail to pivot far enough
around end up punching across their bodies, reducing the power of the punch.
As soon as they've redirected the weapon they must turn to face their attacker as
they push the weapon strongly down.
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LEVEL 4
TECHNIQUE: Cavaliers
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #
Cavalier #1

Teaching points:

• Grab the attacker's wrist with your left hand. “Cap” the attacker's hand
with your right hand, placing your fingers over his in the same direction as
his, grasping tightly. This can be done explosively, as an attack.
• Pull at the wrist with your left hand while pushing on the hand with your
right, straining the wrist. Apply the pressure using your whole body, not
just your arms. The attacker's hand should be about a forearm's length
from your body.
• Pivot to your left on your right foot. Simultaneously push the arm down,
slamming your attacker to the ground.
• Drop him directly underneath you, bending your knees as he hits the
ground. Do NOT bend over at the waist.
• Drop lower and drive your shin against his neck and your knee along his
arm to prevent him escaping by rolling out.

Note: Take care to push/pull the wrist, do not twist it.

Cavalier #2

Teaching points:

• Grab the attacker's wrist with your left hand. “Cap” the attacker's hand
with your right hand, placing your fingers over his in the same direction as
his, grasping tightly. This can be done explosively, as an attack.
• Pull at the wrist with your left hand while pushing on the hand with your
right, straining the wrist. Apply the pressure using your whole body, not
just your arms. The attacker's hand should be about a forearm's length
from your body.
• Burst forward, driving the arm back and to the outside of the attacker's
shoulder, then forcefully down.
• If your attacker's fall requires it, be prepared to advance further with your
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feet.
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Cavalier #3

Teaching points:

• This technique is the same as #1 or #2, but the hand placement differs. In
Cavalier #3 we place both hands on the wrist and both thumbs on the top
of the hand. Use the thumbs to drive the hand back and down.

Cavalier #4

Teaching points:

• Cavalier #4 is made when the wrist is too strong to manipulate, or the

defender wishes to knock something out of the attacker's hand.
• Grab the wrist in the left hand as in #1 & #2.
• With your right arm, deliver an elbow strike to the hand.
• Once the wrist is broken, press down on it with the forearm.

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LEVEL 4
TECHNIQUE: Groundfighting: Attacker In Mount, Pinning Wrists – Slide Arms
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #
This defense assumes the attacker has his weight forward as he uses it to press
the wrists to the floor.

Teaching points:

• As the attacker leans forward to press his weight onto your wrists, buck
your hips up toward your head and to one side, as in earlier techniques.
To assist the technique, trap one of his feet with your foot.
• As you buck, slide your arms down, extended, similar to how a child
makes “snow angels”. Be sure your hands slide along the ground. Do
NOT lift them up.
• As the attacker's topples over, reverse him and counterattack.

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LEVEL 4
TECHNIQUE: Groundfighting: Attacker In Mount, Pinning Wrists – Wrist Lock &
Roll
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #
In this defense, the attacker is pressing his weight onto the defender's wrists,
which are held together over the head.

Teaching points:

• When the wrists are pinned together over the head, there is no leverage to
perform the “snow angel” technique.
• Move one hand and grab your attacker's wrist. Either hand will work.
• If your attacker is too strong to allow you to grab the wrist, fake it, causing
him to grasp that hand and freeing up your other hand to grab his wrist.
• As soon as you trap his hand, buck your hips and make a “trap and roll”
movement to that side.
• You may find its possible to use your forearm/elbow against his arm for
additional leverage.
•
Note: Even if you cannot move your hands, concentrate your efforts on your
buck and roll and you will still be able to perform the technique. By trapping your
hands above your head he has committed his own weight and hands to their
position, and cannot defend against the buck and roll unless he bases out, which
requires him to remove at least one hand. If he does not base out, complete the
buck and roll. If he does base out perform a standard trap and roll or a side-
elbow escape from the full mount.

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LEVEL 4
TECHNIQUE: Groundfighting: Arm Triangle
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #
While this is an effective technique, the defender should resist the temptation to
grapple, and get up and away as soon as possible.

Teaching points:

• Should your attacker, while punching from guard, over-commit to his

punch, redirect the punch and use his momentum to pull him in close.
Assist by pulling him in tightly with your legs.
• Draw him close enough to get his shoulder past your head.
• With the outside hand, wrap around his neck and grab the biceps of the
opposite arm.
• Bend your elbow, sending the redirecting arm back toward the back of
your own head. Grab your own head.
• Squeeze, even pushing your head in onto your attacker to increase the
pressure.

NOTE: For the technique to be successful, the attacker's head and shoulder
must move past your head and opposite shoulder when you draw him in.

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LEVEL 4
TECHNIQUE: Groundfighting: Leg Triangle
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #
Groundfighting: Triangle Choke (With Leg)

A variation of the Green Belt's Arm Bar technique, we make a triangle choke on
an attacker who is in our guard. Should your attacker try to escape your guard
by pulling one arm out of guard, he has given you a perfect opportunity to
Triangle Choke him.

Teaching points:

• When your opponent tries to escape guard but one arm remains in guard,
grab that arm tightly.
• Simultaneously shift your hips, pivoting your body toward the side in which
his is trying to escape. You are placing yourself perpendicular to your
opponent. NEVER RELEASE YOUR TIGHT HOLD ON THE ARM.
• On that side, bring your leg up and across his neck, yanking hard on the
captured arm to draw him deeper. Your foot should be as close as
possible to his other shoulder.
• Bring the other leg up and cross it over the ankle of the leg which is
draped across the back of your opponent's neck. Squeeze!
• If the attacker resists, or is too strong, grab the back of his head with a
free hand and bend it hard inward, squeezing the throat.
• If you cannot finish the choke, begin delivering punches to the face.

NOTES & COMMON MISTAKES

Q: I can't seem to reach my legs far enough around my attacker to cross and
clinch them. How can I fix this?

A: Make sure you are pivoting your body far enough around. You must be
perpendicular to your attacker to get your legs around his throat and neck. If you
are pivoting to the point that you are perpendicular, the problem may be that you
are not flexible enough. To clinch your legs together, reach up and grab your
own ankle with your inside hand, pulling it down to reach the crook of your knee.
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Q: Why must I continually pull on the arm?

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A: For a triangle to be successful, you must be very close. Capturing and

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keeping the arm keeps him close, prevents his escape, and rotates his body to
make him more vulnerable to the choke.

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LEVEL 4
TECHNIQUE: Groundfighting: Guillotine From Guard
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #
If you are unfortunate enough to find yourself on the ground with your attacker,
having him in your guard offers some distinct advantages. One of these
advantages is the ability to perform a strong Guillotine Choke. For training
purposes, we will assume you are using your right arm to make the choke.

Teaching points:

• From the Guard, sit up (as if to attempt a Sit Up & Sweep).

• Reach to your attacker's right side and wrap your arm around his neck.
Your armpit will be across the back of his neck, your elbow pointing away
from him, and your forearm with be across his throat.
• Catch your right wrist in your left hand with a thumbless grip. You may
find it necessary to shift your hips a bit to catch your hands. Do it quickly.
• Lay back and close your guard, crossing your ankles above his hips. Pull
with your arms and expand your chest up while you pull down with your
legs, stretching your attacker and increasing the pressure on his throat.

NOTES & COMMON MISTAKES

Q: When I connect my hands his left arm is in the way. Can I still complete the
choke?

A: No. Bypass his left arm by sliding your left hand into the choke and squeeze.

Q: Why do I need to close my guard?

A: First to prevent him escaping your guard, and second, to stretch him out and
intensify the choke.

Q: I'm doing everything but the choke is not working! Why?

A: You probably do not have your arm deeply enough around his throat. This is
a carotid choke. The front of his throat should be in the crook of your elbow, with
your bicep and forearm on either side of his throat. You must get in deeply to
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make a tight choke.

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Notes and Observations:

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LEVEL 4

It is possible to make this choke by crushing the throat with the wrist.
Understand that this could be fatal to opponent, and will quite possibly cause
very serious injury. Use of force issues should be considered when
contemplating this level of defense.

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LEVEL 4
TECHNIQUE: Groundfighting: Defense Against Guillotine
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #
If you find yourself in someone's guard they may attempt a guillotine against you.
Following are two basic defenses to use against this choke.

First, don't allow yourself to be caught in guard. If you feel the guillotine attempt
come on, break the guard and escape, moving to the same side as the attacking
arm.

If you cannot escape the guard, take these steps:

Teaching points:

• The instant the guillotine begins, tuck your chin.

• With your same side hand, pluck at the attacking wrist.
• The pluck will probably not release the hands, but will relieve some
pressure on the throat – enough to continue the fight.
• Wrap your right arm tightly around his neck, preventing him from
stretching you out.
• Stack him, spreading your feet wide and lifting your hips up. Make
yourself into a tripod – the three supporting points of which are your two
feet and your right shoulder, which you are driving strongly into your
attacker's neck and throat. The pressure on this throat will make it difficult
to maintain the choke.

NOTES & COMMON MISTAKES

Q: What if I am late and the choke is already very strong?

A: Our defenses are designed to work even if the defender is late. However,
there is such a thing as too late! If you have allowed your attacker to sink the
choke in without tucking your chin and plucking at his arm to relieve some
pressure, it will be very difficult to defend against a guillotine.

Q: I am lifting my hips, but my attacker's doesn't feel any pressure.

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A: Be sure to bring your weight forward as you lift your hips, don't keep your
weight back in your feet. Drive your shoulder aggressively into his throat while
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still maintaining enough weight in your feet that you can maneuver when he

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begins to release.

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LEVEL 4
TECHNIQUE: Groundfighting: Making Headlock From Behind
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #
Krav Maga de-emphasizes grappling, but Rear Naked Choke is useful to know,
both in its application and its defense. The teaching points apply whether you
are on top or on bottom, choking from behind.

Teaching points:

• If you “take someone's back” immediately seek to apply a Rear Naked

Choke. Prevent his escape by quickly applying the proper leg position.
• Legs: Wrap your legs around his body and dig your heels as deeply into
his thighs/between his legs as possible. This is called “getting your hooks
in”. Keeping strong hooks in with your feet and legs make it very difficult
for him to escape.
• Simultaneously slide one arm under his chin until his throat is in the crook
of his elbow. That hand should reach and grasp the bicep of your other
arm.
• Your free hand should reach back to your own head and cover your ear in
a “talking on the phone” position to help lock down the choke. Alternately,
you can press your hand against the back of his head and press down,
though this is easier for him to defend.
• You must dig your choking arm tightly into his throat. Your bicep should
be on one side of his throat, your forearm on the other. Tuck your chin to
guard your face and eyes, which are his natural targets.
• Squeeze your arm tightly as though trying to reach your attacking hand
back to your attacking shoulder. As you do this, expand your chest. The
attacker should feel pressure on the sides of his neck, not the front.

Variation if the attacker is on his stomach:

If he is completely flat, strike instead of choke. Only choke if the moment is right
to do so.
If he curls up so that his knees are beneath him, fight to sink your hooks in,
digging your heels into his hips. This will prevent him from rolling and forcing you
to lose position. Remember – position before submission.
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NOTES & COMMON MISTAKES

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Q: What if I don't get my hooks in?

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LEVEL 4

A: The attacker will be able to wiggle free if you are underneath him on your
back. If you are on top (he is face down on the ground) he can dislodge you by
rolling.

Q: What if I can't get his throat in the crook of my elbow?

A: Your forearm will be across his throat. This choke is designed to put your
attacker to sleep, not to damage the throat by crushing. Also, the forearm choke
can be defended against by plucking.

Q: How does this choke put the attacker to sleep?

A: Carotid chokes, also known as sleeper holds and blood chokes, cut off blood
supply to the brain, causing unconsciousness in 4-8 seconds. Do NOT choke
your partner into unconsciousness, for the sake of his safety. Persons being
choked should tap as soon as they realize the choke is successful.

Q: I'm having difficulty applying pressure to the sides of the throat. Why can't I
just go across the front?

A: If your goal is to damage the throat you can dig your forearm across the front
of the windpipe. However, this choke is designed to cut off blood flow to the
brain, causing the attacker to black out with truly damaging him (assuming the
choke is released upon unconsciousness).

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LEVEL 4
TECHNIQUE: Groundfighting: Defense Against Headlock From Behind
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #
This defense addresses the previous technique. Note how the principles from
standing headlock apply on the ground.

Teaching points:

• As the attack comes on, quickly tuck your chin.

• Reach back and pluck with your hands just as you would with Headlock
From Behind (Standing). Because of reduced range of motion, your
hands will be less effective on the ground, but they will relieve some of the
pressure of the choke.
• With your feet, drive your shoulders strongly back and up toward the
attacker's shoulder on the attacking side. Example: if he is attacking you
with his right arm, drive yourself back toward his right shoulder.)
• Continue driving back until your head or shoulders touch the floor on his
attacking side. Continue pulling down on the hands!
• Begin shifting your body around to face your attacker. Shift INTO him, do
not give him your back any more than he already has it. Continue until
you're facing your attacker. This is a similar, though more laborious,
movement as in the defense against the standing headlock.
• As you shift your hips, prevent your attacker mounting you by keeping
your outside leg up.

NOTES & COMMON MISTAKES

Q: Why should I drive toward the attacking shoulder?

A: Driving toward the attacking shoulder makes it more difficult for the attacker to
roll on top of us.

Q: If he has his hooks into me, can I still make the turn?

A: Yes. Emphasize shifting the hips, rather than the legs. Our immediate
danger is the choke. We must relieve the pressure of the choke and turning
toward the attacker moves us toward the goal. It is helpful to get your legs free
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while you do this, but not imperative.

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Notes and Observations:

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LEVEL 4

Make sure your students drive all the way back so that their head and/or
shoulders are actually touching the ground. Many students make it most of the
way there and then begin to attempt to turn. This is premature.

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LEVEL 4
TECHNIQUE: Level 4 Addendum General Comments
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #

Techniques in the addendum of each level are not part of the official curriculum,
but are considered valuable enough to be taught.

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LEVEL 4
TECHNIQUE: Groundfighting: Figure 4 or Key Lock
“COMPLETE KRAV MAGA” PAGE #
Teaching points:

• Though this technique is good to know, we prefer to punch and get off the
ground.
• If the attacker exposes his arm, clamp down on his wrist with your
opposite side arm, using a thumbless grip.
• With your same-side hand, slide palm down underneath his upper arm
and grab your own wrist.
• KEEPING HIS HAND ON THE GROUND AT ALL TIMES slide his hand
down toward his hip. His knuckles remain on the ground while you lift his
elbow up with your forearm.

Note: If possible, make the initial grab by positioning both your hands at the
same time.

This techniques is included as part of the addendum as we generally prefer to

strike and escape. If we are in a good enough position to perform the keylock,
we should also be in position to strike and get to safety.

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