How to Use Krav Maga Knee Strikes

A powerful form of Israeli martial arts, krav maga, or "close combat" in Hebrew, is used by Israeli military forces in hand-to-hand combat. While krav maga is gaining recognition in the United States as a form of self-defense, it is not considered a sport, therefore there are no organized competitions or specials uniforms. One of the most important parts of beginning krav maga is learning to use knee strikes.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Use knee strikes in krav maga when your attacker has let his guard down slightly and you want to finish the fight. In order to work this technique, your attacker must have his hands down so that you can grip his shoulders. Therefore, try to land a solid blow to the stomach, face or groin to create an opening for your knee strikes.

2. Grip one of your opponent's shoulders with both hands, pulling it in towards you. It is best if you grip the shoulder which is on the same side as the dominant side of your body in order to strike with the most force; however, if that is not possible, either side will work.

3. Step back with the leg which is on the same side of your body as the attacker's shoulder you have grabbed. Pull hard on the shoulder and swing in hard and fast with your knee, hitting your opponent in the stomach or groin with upward strikes. Release your leg back as fast as possible, and repeat.

Tips & Warnings

• Employ krav maga knee strikes only as a self-defense technique in extreme situations, as this move can seriously injure your opponent.

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