No comments about Krav Maga: Como defenderte contra un ataque armado/ How to Defend Yourself Against Armed Assault (Spanish Edition).

5 comments about The Essential Krav Maga.

1. It is brillant! the author christophe Philippe makes you feel like joining the club to start practising krav maga. The photos and text really capture the essence of this martial art through the feeling of effectiveness and purity that transpires throughout the book.
   Powerful, Clear and Convincing ! Bravo.



2. I was extremely disappointed with my purchase. Putting aside the fact that I was taught better techniques in control tactics with my job... this book is poorly designed. The moves aren't explained or described well enough for someone with no self defense experience to benefit from them. I don't recommend this book for anyone.



3. Techniques without a strategic context have very little chance of success on the street. While the applications described herein are well illustrated in a step-by-step layout, they are not sufficiently explained for non-experts to utilize them effectively. I imagine that Krav Maga practitioners could use this book as a pictorial reference for techniques that they already know, but without the larger system/context it is darn near useless. Many applications, particularly those which defend against knives and guns, are unnecessarily complicated and extraordinarily dangerous to pull off in an adrenalized state. Consequently I doubt they would work.
   
   Other techniques are simply wrong. For example, figure 6 on page 7 shows a wristlock takedown. There is so much space between the combatants that were this application performed in this manner on the street it would be ineffective and easily countered. Having spent hours upon hours photographing martial arts books myself I certainly understand that not every picture will turn out exactly right every time. Since there is no explanatory text in this book, however, readers must rely on precise photos to know what to do. Consequently there is no excuse for getting things wrong.
   
   Contents include self-defense against unarmed techniques (e.g., punches, kicks, chokes), knifes, guns, sticks, and multiple assailants. The photos are generally very good yet the lack of associated text leaves much to be desired, particularly when trying to convey concepts that can mean life or death in a real-life violent encounter... Further, there is no discussion of awareness, avoidance, de-escalation or other life-saving principles that can keep you from getting into a violent confrontation in the fist place. There is also no information about the legal ramifications of successfully utilizing these techniques on the street. It is important to know not only "what" but also "when" and "how" when talking about self-defense. This 110-page book covers a few techniques but falls short in these other essential areas.
   
   A very disappointing and potentially dangerous book, I suggest you look elsewhere for your self-defense needs. If you want to stick with Krav Maga materials, try "Krav Maga: How to Defend Yourself Against Armed Assault" by Imi Sde-Or. It's a vastly superior book.
   
   Lawrence Kane
   Author of Surviving Armed Assaults, The Way of Kata, and Martial Arts Instruction



4. I read this book cover to cover in about 20 minutes. It's full of relatively clear pictures taking up most of the book, but not much is offered in the way of explanations and narratives. Additionally, the amount of content that the pictures do provide fall woefully short of all the moves available in the Krav System, and some of the moves demonstrated I don't feel are street practical (which is what Krav Maga is all about). Having taken Krav lessons for a year and a half, I was hoping I could learn something to supplement my class teachings thus rounding out my knowledge and skills. It turns out that the techniques I learned in class are better and I feel will be more effective in real life street fighting than what most of the book offers. I am not a long time dedicated martial artist, howeverr I reliably go the 3 times per week that class is held and I feel I could have put out a more informative book.



5. 'Krav maga' is a martial arts fighting style developed for the Israeli armed forces and is respected for its simplicity, speed, and efficiency. With "The Essential Krav Maga", Christopher Philippe presents the first and very strongly recommended instruction manual that includes self-defense strategies against empty-handed opponents; assailants armed with sticks, knives, handguns, and long guns; how to protect a companion; as well as krav maga strategies against multiple foes. Profusely illustrated throughout, "The Essential Krav Maga" is a core addition to personal and professional marital arts reference collections and supplemental study lists.

5 comments about Everything Krav Maga for Fitness Book: Get fit fast with this high-intensity martial arts workout (Everything: Health and Fitness).

1. This book will teach anyone how to defend themselves! Those taking Krav Maga classes who want supplemental reading to deepen their practice and training regime will also benefit from this instructional book. Krav Maga is empowering and an intense, calorie burning workout. It could be used just to improve fitness and the way the body looks, or it can be used on another level as a way to defend yourself in real life violent situations.
   
   The introduction does a very good job giving a history of Krav Maga, and defining the philosophy behind its practice. The authors do this without bogging the reader down with too much background information. The introduction will also appeal to women as Krav Maga is a fighting technique that does not require the fighter to be larger or physically stronger than their opponent. In fact Krav Maga is predicated on the need for unarmed, and often outnumbered, fighters to have a technique that will work for the "underdog".
   
   The book, like Krav Maga itself, encompasses a lot of fitness techniques. This includes a considerable amount of yoga poses - used very effectively to emphasize flexibility and core strength. The book does an excellent job breaking down and explaining every topic broached by the authors. For example, the book does not merely provide shadow boxing exercises, but it also details the benefits and disadvantages of shadow boxing to your success as a fighter. Photographs are clear and well utilized in conjunction with explanatory text. Many, but not all, of the exercise and routines will require equipment (punching bag, medicine ball, mitts) and a partner.



2. I have to disagree with the other reviewers here so far. No it doesn't teach you everything you need to know about the Krav Maga techniques for fighting. But neither is it a useless book. As the authors state, the intention of the book is to use as a guide to becoming fit - a useful part of self defence - if not a total necessity. But your chances are far greater if you are fit. This book combines and excellent array of multi-disciplinary exercises which combine in a core routine(s).. a blend of Yoga, Plyometrics, Speed work, running, core conditioning.. It excels in doing what it says it will do: provide you with drill to increase your ability in 'combat'.. However, it provides only basic Krav Maga defences. If you can't get to a class go to one of the official Krav Maga websites and buy the instructional DVDs - combine them with this book and you should have a reasonable grounding in the combat system. Some practice in a safe and controlled manner with a friend should round out your basic KM. But even a couple of seminars a year is better than not going to get live instruction at all. Simply put - it's a good book and a good addition to any Kravist's library - or even someone who just wants to get fit but doesn't have time to combine all the cross training they may like to do!!



3. This is a great book for getting in shape using the Krav Maga system!!!! Not good for learning the Krav Maga system but, great for learning how to use the system for more then just self defense!!!!!!



4. If you bought this book, or are thinking of buying this book, in order to learn Krav Maga, you are in for a very big disappointment. However, if you bought this book, or are planning on buying this book, and read the title expecting to learn something about fitness, then you are not going to be too disappointed. Although depending upon your own personal fitness background and training you may be.
   
   I had seen this book on the shelf at one of the local bookstores for several months and finally decided to pick it up and browse through it. I looked through it for several minutes and decided to go ahead and spend a couple of extra bucks on it to see what I could get out of it, which wasn't the entire book by any means, but I did get enough out of it to justify the money spent on it and the 4 star rating that I give it.
   
   The author's go over a very wide range of fitness and health related issues and techniques in this book and perhaps too many to do justice to any one particular topic. A lot of the topics are very limited and really don't provide a lot of information and are more of a brief introduction more than anything else.
   
   If you are looking for a good overall introduction to a wide variety of fitness training methods to help improve your martial arts ability, then you will probably benefit from this book. However, if you are looking for detailed explanations on how to execute a wide variety of exercise techniques under any one topic, for example; plyometrics or weight lifting, then this book is definitely not for you.
   
   In closing I would like to reiterate that this book is definitely a good buy if you are merely looking for a book to provide a good but brief overview on a variety of fitness and health related topics. Even I found enough useful information in it to justify the price I paid for it and this 4 star rating. If I hadn't, you can bet I would have returned it and given it a 1 star rating without hesitation.
   
   Shawn Kovacich
   Martial Artist/Author of the Achieving Kicking Excellence series.



5. I agree with some of the previous comments made about this book. However, one must take into consideration the real purpose of this book. This book promotes the highly effective Krav Maga Self-Defense System by explaining the various exercises that are part of an over-all program. If you desire to get into great fighting condition and do exercises that relate directly to using Krab Maga techniques, this is a MUST book for you. If you are seeking actual instruction in the various self-defense situations one might encounter on the street, you need to purchase other excellent Krav Maga books on the market. In conclusion, this is a book for anyone who is interested in combat fitness and the Krav Maga approach to learning self-defense. Rating: 4 Stars. Joseph J. Truncale (Author: Monadnock Defensive Tactics System, Shotokan Karate for Self-Defense: Combat Karate for the street, Use of the Monadnock Straight Baton, PR-24 Police Baton Advanced Techniques, Martial Art Myths, Never Trust a Politician).

2 comments about Krav Maga - Use of the Human Body as a Weapon Philosophy and Application of Hand to Hand Fighting Training System.

1. Boaz Aviram is probably the most qualified person to write about Krav Maga. He was Chief Instructor in the Israeli Military and studied under the man who invented the technique. This book is the most comprehensive and authentic. If you are serious about self defense and Krav Maga specifically, this is the book I would recommend. Krav Maga is considered to be the best method for hand to hand combat.



2. I read this book starting out with very little knowledge about krav maga - it provides a lot of information, which I found interesting. It is very informative.

5 comments about Advanced Krav Maga: The Next Level of Fitness and Self-Defense.

1. David Kahn is one of the best Kravists living in North America, it only makes sense that his books reflect this. I have been training in Krav Maga for just over 18months now, and have had the honor to be given the title "instructor" by Grand Master Hiam Gidon himself. Without David Kahn, and his books, I do not feel as though I would've achieved such an honor. If you have any intrest in Krav Maga, David's books are a must-have item.



2. I've previously reviewed Kahn's earlier book, Krav Maga. Everything I said there applies here. This book does not repeat the information about mindset and training methods which are found in Kahn's earlier book; such repetition would be redundant. Hence , there is more space devoted to techniques; but even when talking about technique, Kahn's writing is conversational and readable. The reasons why things are done are given as well as how they are done. As with the earlier book the illustrations are very nicely focused drawings which, as I said in the earlier review, I prefer to photographs when the intent is to illustrate a process. Also as in the earlier book, there is a nicely thought out training plan. All in all, an excellent achievement.



3. I would have to agree with the information in this book. The self defense moves and fitness guide are awesome. I really love the interviews of the people who trained with the original grandmaster and founder of Krav Maga Imi Lichtenfield. I have trained with the one of the black belts in the book Alan Feldman and he always speaks of Imi. All the moves and conditioning we do in class are in line and right on with the book. This is probably one of the best Krav Maga books out there. If you want to learn, buy this book it is very informative and explains all the moves in the book in detail and have pictures to show toy how the moves go in progress.



4. Very good instruction but needs more pictures. I'm just getting back into the martial arts at the tender age of 61. Darren Levine's series of books & DVD's are about perfect. Would recommend both authors highly.



5. Advanced Krav Maga builds on the techniques and principles covered in David's first book. It goes through in extensive detail, by word and picture, everything relevant to combat, including strikes, defenses for strikes, locks, takedowns, groundwork and training drills.
   
   If you want a taste for the more advanced techniques taught by the Israeli Krav Maga Association(IKMA), this is the book to get. If you want detailed explanations on what to do in a particular situation, why to do it and what to watch out for according to IKMA philosophy, this is the book to get. If you live in an area where there are no IKMA schools around and you want to get into their way of training, this is the closest you will get to the real thing.
   
   However, to get the most out of this book, you will need to have a good skills base, for it builds on David's first book: "Krav Maga: An Essential Guide to the Renowned Method for Fitness and Self Defense". If you are a person starting from scratch in the field of self defense, I would recommend you purchase this first book first.
   
   Overall, a very good and detailed explanation of the more advanced techniques for Israeli Krav Maga.

5 comments about Krav Maga: How to Defend Yourself Against Armed Assault.

1. Krav maga is a system that is a opened minded martial artist dream! This system is free thinking and addaptive to any situation that presents it self in any conflict. So many systems that are taught these days have there hypes and praises but none have been proven in the modern day fights than this art.
   
   Krav maga it self is a mixed martial art that is all the rave these days by main stream media and sports fanatics. But if one were to take that kind of training to the next level it would be Krav. There are few arts out there that offer simplicty and a cut to the chase to actual situations that can present themself in an everyday life in america and other contries around the world. I myself a free thinking martial artist have deep roots in traditional martial arts and love the linage that has been passed down from teacher to student for generations. But the open mindedness of Krav was made for one simple reason and that was to win the fight as fast as humanly possible. Thats it. No fancy moves, no over the top movements that would leave one open, and no promises of being the best. It teaches you to win the fight no matter what the odds. Fight, fight, fight!
   
   For those that have only glanced at this modern style of combat and said "Well that looks like stuff that my school does!" It probable is! But with in a matter of a few years one becomes proficiant and very well capable of taking care of themselfs in a real conflict. This style teaches to fight even under stress. Cause it is taught that way! No you punch here and let me smack you a bunch of times. This might be taken in a way were tradiational martial artist would say "You have no idea what you are talking about." But what Krav is and what it offers is the simplicity of all your styles. It isnt against anything that you already know its just easy and effective.
   
   Look at this book! Buy this book and have it as a reference or what ever but know that knowledge is power and to have this in your collection will be one you will never regret.



2. We got this book for my 17 year old son for Christmas. The only time he has put it done is to practice some of the moves, and he has now taken to teaching his sisters some of the tecniques. A great buy!



3. I have studied Krav Maga for a year and this book is a must have for any level Krav Maga practitioner.



4. Grande ausilio per chi pratica si allena a difendersi e combattere in strada,il Krav Maga spiegato e illustrato dal suo inventore e dai suoi grandi allievi Master.



5. I've done some krav maga work before, and this book is great for beginners. It's rather brief and simple and all the disarms and attacks seem like second nature/ common sense but that's what krav is all about! Utilizing your body's natural reactions to help you overcome the dangerous situation. It's good for those who are interested in KRav but you must, you MUST take a class and practice, practice practice. Just looking at some pictures on the is not going to prepare anyone for a real encounter on the streets.

5 comments about Krav Maga: An Essential Guide to the Renowned Method--for Fitness and Self-Defense.

1. David kahn's essential text is excellent, simple and tremendously useful. He has managed, in a short and easy to use text, to sum up the essentials of krav maga and the basics of most martial arts, both eastern and western in origin. His text would serve equally well for any of the following:
   
   - those looking for an overview of self defense and close combat, with little or no background
   -those studying the first few belts of krav maga, who want a text to go with their classes
   -those who would like to teach themselves krav maga who are not under the umbrella of a teacher yet
   -those studying MMA, karate, boxing, kickboxing, Muay Thai, etc who are looking for a text to use for fundamentals of striking and combatives.
   
   I have been studying krav maga and muay thai for almost a year now, and find the text very helpful in understanding and mastering the ideas and techniques taught in the class. I can say with some conviction that even without an instructor, this work has a lot to say about self defense.
   
   By incorporating workouts and lists of drills, Mr. Kahn has added another dimension of utility to his text: keeping the kravist in shape, both for combat and for health. His down to earth stories and non-agressive approach only add to the accessibility of the work.



2. My background is in krav maga, I know this style is the ikma style, not getting into politics here since all krav maga styles have something good to offer. I'm going to be honest, my review is from experience, i'll work backwards then. The exercise plan at the end of the book really messed me up badly when I first started Krav Maga because it tells you to do all these punches and kicks. You automatically drop your arms, you must keep them up at all times, or you will get hurt in sparring. When I started out, I kept getting corrected by the instructors, this book ruined my technique for months. Even after another injury years later giving me more time to use this book at home, I still dropped my hands and again had to be corrected because of this exercise plan. You can't learn anything from this book without an instructor so it fails for me unlike another krav maga book Complete Krav Maga. The exercise plan also has different outlet stances, yet I haven't seen any videos of demonstrations switching it. I don't recommend it unless your an advanced student. You can't fight in your original stance, don't bother switching it all the time. You might be open to more attacks a good original stance will protect you from. Do that later when you get better. At least they tell you to throw these combinations, which will help you strike an opponent, however it's useless if you can't protect yourself because you will get knocked out.
   
   Second is the format of the book, all you have is drawings of what is suppose to be a technique. I know angles are important in Krav Maga and details. One wrong angle for a weapon disarm can mean life of death. Also one wrong angle can mean deflecting a punch or getting punched in the face. The problem is these drawings and a lack of description doesn't help at all. Not everyone is built like David Kahn, his body might alter the techniques and angles because he's bigger than average, which makes important angles irrelevant. It means just throw the technique any way you can and ignore all angles. Without a qualified instructor you are going to do the technique wrong because it's not clear from drawings. There are very few IKMA schools to correct you anyways, this book might not help. This is in contrast to the other Krav Maga book Complete Krav Maga where all instructions are clear in steps and angles, there is no room for interpretations.
   
   In contrast to the other book, this book has a bunch of stories no one really cares about. It's a good intention and insightful, however it can be kept to a few pages rather than so many pages. I really find the format of the book and it's instruction to be flawed compared to the other book which I have found useful time and time again.
   
   There are a few things missing that this book leaves out. Ground fighting is covered exclusively alot in the other book, this book doesn't really even adress the topic, maybe their next book. Weapon disarming is very important and a part of krav maga, however this book ignores it, maybe they think others will have ill intentions. Get real, I doubt anyone with ill intentions will actually read a book, or take it's advice seriously. This is a diservice to those who wants to defend themselves and protect themselves. A big portion of Krav Maga is missing from these books and it's all there in the complete Krav Maga book.
   
   My conclusion is take Krav Maga and get an instructor, they will help you and correct you. Just take this book with a grain of salt, it's no reference material, rather an obscure project. If your buying this book, buy both the complete krav maga and this book because they are different, sort of like the ying yang principle. One book is clear for pictures and has detailed steps and instructions, yet lacks insight, the other one is opposite. Both books will get you the best results. I still haven't bought the advance krav maga book, however it's probably full of techniques I probably can't learn myself or will ever use because it's so obscure. This book might not help you, not because of the style which I think has skillful practitioners, rather the format of the book is fundamentally flawed using drawings and obscure instructions. Sorry, but the format of this book failed me because it's too obscure and impractical to be used as reference material.



3. This is one of the first pieces of literature I read on the whole topic of Krav Maga, and I must say, it is one of the best. It takes you through the history of Israeli Krav Maga, the principles, stances, strikes and self defense techniques which really work. Whether you are a beginner or practitioner of the martial arts or even a practitioner of Krav Maga, you will get something from this book. Overall, a logical book dealing helpfully with Israeli Krav Maga in it's foundational basics.



4. I was new to Krav Maga when I decided to buy David's first book, and I have to say that it provided a very strong foundation in Krav Maga theory and practice. For those seeking an introduction to the core essentials of Krav Maga, as only the IKMA can deliver, as well as some vital history, then this book is a must have. It will have you on your way to being more prepared and more confident in the event of a violent attack. For me, this book has been a catalyst in discovering a part of myself and setting me on my way to a life connected to Krav Maga.
   
   --Bridger H.



5. i've read and love this book. teaches excellent self-defense techniques that are fast and easy to learn and practice, yet very effective and practical. and there's a big bonus of loosing weight and getting/staying fit.

5 comments about Black Belt Krav Maga: Elite Techniques of the World's Most Powerful Combat System.

1. Well I guess the best way to start off this review is to provide you with a brief overview of what is included in this book. So with that in mind, here we go...
   
   This book starts off with the obligatory definition and and basic overview of the history and philosophy of Krav Maga. The authors intentionally kept this section brief and advise the reader to refer back to their first two volumes in this series in order to get more detailed information on the subject. I felt that this was appropriate for this particular volume.
   
   The authors then go into the training methodology of Krav Maga and even give you fifteen (15) different training drills that you can incorporate into your own training in order to add variety and enhanced training to your lessons. I really like the drills that they provided in the book and felt that you could easily add or adapt to those drills shown in order to create even more.
   
   The next section was very nicely done, although I must admit that I don't adhere nor do I believe 100% in what they are saying in this section, and goes over the "Use of Force" as it relates to a self-defense situation. The one big thing that I disagreed with almost immediately was the sub-title underneath this section that said, "The rules of self-defense." I think this is a HUGE misconception because in a true self-defense situation there are no rules except to overcome your attacker and insure your own survival and well-being. Now I understand that you are supposed to only use that force which is necessary in order to stop your attacker. However, ask yourself this question, "Does your attacker really give two-cents about your well-being and is he or she going to play by the rules?" If they were, then they wouldn't be attacking you in the first place.
   
   Now I am not advocating using lethal force just because someone grabbed your rear end or called your wife a filthy name, but when push comes to shove and you are left with no alternative but to actually get physical with your attacker, you need to make sure that they no longer pose a threat to you before you stop your counterattack. Yes, you can end up in jail and also end up being sued. Unfortunately you hear stories about criminals suing their victims and sometimes even winning. It isn't a perfect world by any means, and often times it seems like the criminals have more rights that the innocent victims, and often times that is actually true. However, you won't be able to do anything if you are dead or hospitalized because you didn't defend yourself.
   
   This is a really good section and deserves some serious reflection time after you have read it. The authors also highly recommend that you research the laws in your own state, which I highly recommend as well.
   
   This book is then broken down into eight (8) sections and this is where I had a few minor issues with the contents of this book. I will list those issues under the headings of each section.
   
   HANDGUNS
   
   Concerning Semi-Automatic Pistols:
   
   "Note: If there is already a round in the chamber, holding the slide will NOT affect the round or prevent it from firing."
   
   I don't know for sure what they were getting at here, but that statement is not entirely correct. If you are holding the slide and you move it out of battery even a couple of millimeters, the pistol will not fire. If you move it out of battery even more, depending upon how far and the type of gun you are dealing with, you can actually partially eject a round that is in the chamber and can cause the pistol to jam.
   
   The next issue I had was with their adamant statement about never training with a real handgun. I have to disagree completely with this statement, although I will say that you shouldn't train for gun takeaways with a real gun that is loaded with live ammunition. I personally train and have my students train first with a rubber gun, then when they are ready, that is followed by a metal fully functional air-soft handgun. The metal variety. Then they will eventually work up to training with actual handguns under intense scrutiny from myself and only under the most careful of circumstances.
   
   Now I did really like the layout of the entire book, however, I feel that the photographs should have been much larger and there was ample room to do so on almost every page. I also felt that they should have had some close up photographs of the actual gun takeaways as you really couldn't tell from the photographs and the brief descriptions exactly what was going on. Now if you have had some experience with these techniques you probably wouldn't have much of a problem deciphering them, but if you haven't, then I do think you would have some difficulty the examples shown in this book.
   
   I also had some difficulty accepting some of the takeaway techniques demonstrated in this book, not only with the handgun section, but also some of the other sections. Now I don't know if it was just me, or if I do have a valid concern. I guess I will leave that up to the individual reader.
   
   CARJACKING
   
   This was a very welcome section and one I admittedly skipped to right away when I first got this book. However, I have to say that I was a bit disappointed in it and I felt that some of the techniques demonstrated were a bit lacking in my opinion. Now I was really disappointed in the fact that the authors never did mention what I feel should be your first defense in a carjacking situation, and that is to simply drive away (if possible of course). Although they did mention that as after-action option.
   
   HANDGUNS VS. THIRD PARTIES
   
   Okay, by this time I am really getting bored with reading the same three paragraphs about handguns. This should have been written once in a separate section about the basic of handguns just prior to the handgun section. To keep repeating the same paragraphs over and over throughout the book is redundant and aggravating. This was done with more than just the handguns.
   
   I am a bit undecided on this section as I tried some of these techniques early this evening with my students in class and without exception, we were able to adapt each one into a better and more effective version than what was shown in this book. However, that in and of itself may be a good thing, so I will leave that up to the reader to decide.
   
   EDGED WEAPONS
   
   Once again, I didn't agree with everything in this section, but I did learn a few good things and a couple of others I adapted a bit and they came out okay.
   
   BLUNT OBJECTS VS. EDGED WEAPONS
   
   BLUNT OBJECTS VS. BLUNT OBJECTS
   
   EDGED WEAPONS VS. EDGED WEAPONS
   
   I actually really enjoyed these three section (listed above) and once again, although I didn't agree with everything in each section, I did learn a lot from them and felt that they were a welcome addition to this book.
   
   HAND GRENADES
   
   I initially thought it was kind of silly to put this section in the book, but upon reading the section and giving it some serious thought, it was viable and could have actually been expanded upon even more so.
   
   In closing I would have to say that this book is a welcome addition to my own personal library, although it isn't of the quality, in my humble opinion, of the first book in the series; Complete Krav Maga: The Ultimate Guide to Over 230 Self-Defense and Combative Techniques, nor is it of the caliber of Krav Maga: How to Defend Yourself Against Armed Assault. However, having said that, I did enjoy this book and felt that there was enough good material in it to justify the cost and the space on the shelf.
   
   I would also highly recommend that you obtain the following books and videos in order to further your education in Krav Maga, Kapap, and Haganah.
   
   Krav Maga for Beginners: A Step-by-Step Guide to the World's Easiest-to-Learn, Most-Effective Fitness and Fighting Program
   
   Krav Maga: An Essential Guide to the Renowned Method--for Fitness and Self-Defense
   
   Advanced Krav Maga: The Next Level of Fitness and Self-Defense
   
   Fight To Survive!: Hardcore Self Defense Against Armed and Unarmed Attack (Volume 1) (1)
   
   Kapap Combat Concepts: Martial Arts of the Israeli Special Forces
   
   KAPAP Combat Concepts Vol. 1: Martial Arts of The Isreali Special Forces - Principles and Conditioning and the other three volumes in the series.
   
   Krav Maga (Complete 5-DVD Set)
   
   Shawn Kovacich
   Martial Artist/Krav Maga Instructor
   Author of the Achieving Kicking Excellence series.



2. The first reviewer of this book gave such a complete review of the material that there is not much more to comment on this text. I do suggest that you read and study the first two books by Darren Levine before reading this text. Many years ago, when I was the defensive tactics officer for my agency, I was sent to the Illinois State Police adacemy for an intense six day, 8 full hours a day Krav Maga course which was given by Darren Levine, Imi Lichtenfeld (the founder of Krav Maga) and other instructors. This book is not for beginners. Though the principles are the same, without studying more of the basic techniques and tactics, one could get lost attempting to perform the techniques in this book. Nevertheless, if you are an experienced martial artist, you will find the techniques and tactics simple to follow in this text. I found this text very interesting and informative. Rating: 4 Stars. Joseph J. Truncale (Author: Martial Art Myths, Season of the Warrior, Never Trust a Politican, Shotokan Karate Self-Defense Manual: Combat Karate for the Street, Tanto-Jutsu Manual, Wakizashi-jutsu manual, Pro-Systems Combatives Vol. 1, 2, Baton Reverse Grip Manual, PR-24 Police Baton Advanced Techniques).



3. The other reviewers cover almost all of it. I've been studying Krav Maga for about two years and have not reach black belt level just yet. But, its good to see whats next so, everyone can get a good idea what the program is going to be like from start to finish. I think its a good book, very well writing like the others two. Its does have a few type-o's but, nothing major. The part that discusses laws and when to use force and how much force to use will probably be the only reason this book will get bad reviews. But, the fact is, that most people have a problem with the laws about using force not the book itself. This book is just telling you that even though you may one day have to use force and fight for your life, does not mean that you won't end up in jail for saving your own life. Sucks but the book does not make the laws, they are just the messagers and please keep in mind that every state is very different. Somethings are allowed and no problem in one state can carry up to a year or more in prison in others. That basically what that whole section is saying, just know your laws and be carefully!!! Buy the book if you don't own the other two, get them first. This will make alot more sense after you have read the other ones. Hope this helps...



4. I cannot recommend this book highly enough. Darren Levine and Ryan Hoover have effectively given us extensive counterattacks for the most dangerous situations, including neutralizing attackers armed with guns, knives, and other weapons. Advanced techniques are explained and clearly demonstrated with many photos and easy to understand text. What's else is there to say? For Krav Maga enthusiasts who want the edge, this is the book!



5. Krav Maga is a reality based fighting system developed for the Israeli Military and has been adapted for use by civilians and Law Enforcement. I'd been waiting a long time for this book, after reading the prior books 'Krav Maga for Beginners' and 'Complete Krav Maga'. While there are some portions of this book referenced that can be applied to the lower KM levels, the actual black belt techniques shown are VERY high risk and without proper training, can cause serious injury. The book assumes you've already studied KM so this is NOT in any way a KM beginner's book and not all black belt techniques are shown. I've only studied KM (not a BB either) so I have no other system to compare these techniques to.
   
   The Training Methodology section as described is exactly what I've gone through as a student. This section brought up all kinds of memories as I've been through just about every one of those drills as stated or in a variation. As a student of KM for several years, I can say the drills REALLY work and your body learns to respond to the threat. You don't think it. Your body just knows.
   
   Use of Force - This section breaks it down to what constitutes self-defense, legal implications and 'Golden Rules of Self Defense'. While the basic rule in KM is there are no rules, one still has to defend themselves with a reasonable amount of force based on the threat. What's presented here one really needs think about before an attack ever happens at all. You have to check with the laws in your state to make sure you know the consequences of using KM as self-defense.
   
   The rest of the book is broken down into the following sections - Handguns, Carjacking, Handguns vs. Third Parties, Edged Weapons, Blunt Objects vs. Edged Weapons, Blunt Objects vs. Blunt Objects (i.e. sticks, bats), Edged Weapon vs. Edged Weapon and Hand Grenades. You're presented with scenarios and given the Threat (or Attack), Danger and Solution along with photos. The photos really help one get a better handle on what's being described in each scenario and are broken down into manageable steps. The format here is similar to what's in the prior KM books. Unfortunately, in today's world, the scenarios presented are very real.
   
   I'd seen a few of these techniques before but the amount of detail shown in the book is more than I expected. The Use of Common Objects as Distractions and Shields (pages 110, 128, 144) I do have to say aren't just for lack belt level as I've been shown a few of these in my lower level classes before. In weapons defenses, training weapons are always treated as the real thing. You fight the way you train. I've done some of the the techniques here and I've seen them work.
   
   Unless you've studied KM before, you'll find references to techniques not explained in the book, as these are lower level techniques. The book does assume you've studied KM already. Examples are Gun Threat with Active Pushing (Hands Down Variation). The 2nd part of the first sentence 'and perform a sweeping motion (similar to an Outside Defense)..' is a Level 3 technique. In Gun Threat at Shoulder with Wrist Grab 'Your left hand will naturally make a wrist release.' is a Level 1 technique.
   
   About the only section of this book that just looked weird to me were the defenses against hand grenades. Now I'm not saying a situation like this would never come up. As the average person, I don't know that I'd encounter scenarios like this unless I was possibly in Law Enforcement or the Military.
   
   I've had the pleasure of training with both authors and what they do teach is the real deal. It was worth the wait for this book and for you fellow KM students, you're not gonna be disappointed. I know some may say the pictures aren't big enough. Well, this book is a reference and NOT meant to be your sole training guide.

5 comments about Krav Maga for Beginners: A Step-by-Step Guide to the World's Easiest-to-Learn, Most-Effective Fitness and Fighting Program.

1. As I stated in the title of this review, both the title and contents of this book (for the most part) are pretty much accurate as far as this book being a, "step-by-step guide to Krav Maga for beginners." However, I do feel that the authors went a bit overboard with their subtitle, "the world's easiest-to-learn, most effective fitness and fighting program." That however is merely a minor annoyance compared to the amount of good and great information within its pages.
   
   This book starts off with the obligatory front matter which consists of basic Krav Maga philosophy, principles, history, and so on, along with more unique and personal information such as; important considerations to consider concerning Krav Maga and dealing with a violent encounter. All subjects worthy of much larger sections, however, not in this book, which is designed to showcase basic skills for beginners.
   
   The authors break this book down into four (4) sections as follows:
   
   1. Krav Maga Basics
   2. Combatives
   3. Defenses
   4. Ground Fighting
   
   KRAV MAGA BASICS
   
   Under this section, the authors go over a variety of warm-up and conditioning exercises, as well as various training positions. All of which are designed to get your ready for the next section, combatives.
   
   COMBATIVES
   
   Under this section, the authors go over a variety of skills and principles such as; the various fighting ranges, vulnerable areas, etc. As well as the proper mechanics of executing a variety of punches, elbow strikes, kicks, knees, and even a headbutt. Now I do have to say that this section, in any other book, would have been to brief for my liking. However, the authors have already qualified the briefness of the material presented in this book by emphatically stating that this book is a, "guide for beginners." And therefore, should be treated as such.
   
   DEFENSES
   
   Now rather than go into all of the different defenses shown in this section, I am instead going to talk about the way each of the defenses was presented. Which by the way, I thought was done very well.
   
   Each defense is laid out in the following way:
   
   Attack: This is where the author describes the type of attack coming at you.
   
   Immediate Danger: Here the author emphasizes the attacker's intent with his attack.
   
   Secondary Dangers: This is the results of the attack if it is successful.
   
   Solution: Here the authors present a possible defense.
   
   Initial Counterattack: Like the title says, this could be your first responding counter.
   
   Neutralizing the Attacker: Additional counters that should be made after the first one.
   
   Key Points: Important things to consider in the scenario given.
   
   Commonly Asked Questions: Enough said!
   
   GROUND FIGHTING
   
   In this section, the authors go over a variety of common ground fighting tactics that are fairly easy for the beginner to grasp and eventually become proficient enough in to actually utilize them if the situation warrants.
   
   Even though I am not a beginner when it comes to self-defense and combat, I really enjoyed this book and found it to be very useful and would strongly recommend it to anyone interested in not only Krav Maga, but any legitimate self-defense program.
   
   Here are a few other books on the subject that I would also highly recommend:
   
   Complete Krav Maga: The Ultimate Guide to Over 200 Self-Defense and Combative Techniques
   
   Krav Maga: An Essential Guide to the Renowned Method--for Fitness and Self-Defense
   
   Advanced Krav Maga: The Next Level of Fitness and Self-Defense
   
   Krav Maga: How to Defend Yourself Against Armed Assault
   
   Surviving Armed Assaults: A Martial Artists Guide to Weapons, Street Violence, and Countervailing Force
   
   Meditations on Violence: A Comparison of Martial Arts Training & Real World Violence
   
   Shawn Kovacich
   Martial Artist/Author of the Achieving Kicking Excellence series.



2. Why can't these "experts" get even the smallest details correct?
   
   This book seems like a rehash of their previous book Complete Krav Maga, which, obviously, is not so complete. In fact, the authors say as much. What they don't say is that they try to fix the mistakes and omissions from their first book - which is clearly obvious. At least they fixed the palm heel with the dangling thumb! There are still many basic mistakes in this book such as defending a choke from the front and not plucking and securing the attacker's arms immediately.
   
   A women delivers a headbutt from the mount without bulling her neck - but, more important, she can knock herself out this way because her opponent's head is flat on the ground and there is no give. It is just one of many examples of incorrect thinking and technique. The stances are also too wide exposing the groin . . .
   
   I could go on and on, but, I just don't understand how this krav maga is so far from the most up to date and effective techniques taught in Israel. Clearly, it has lost the original effectiveness of what is taught in Israel.
   
   I read every krav maga book that comes out. What strikes me the most, is they overtly included sections and techniques taken from another very popular krav maga book. I kept waiting for Krav Maga for Beginners to come out, but the authors delayed it. I guess they wanted to analyze the IKMA guy's book and cure their deficiencies. Imitation is the highest form flattery . . . but never the original quality.



3. I had the pleasure many years ago of training with Darren Levine at the Illinois State Police academy. The officers attending this six day eight hours a day instructor program were all police defensive tactics instructors. That was my first introduction in this very effective combative system. This book is an excellent guide for beginners who may be interested in learning Krav maga; however, like any psychomotor skill text, one should take lessons from a certified instructor to get the most value out of reading this book. As a lover of self-defense and combat books and videos, I have found that they work best when combined with actual hands-on training with an instructor. This book is highly recommended. Rating: 4 stars. Joseph J. Truncale (Bushi Satori Ryu-Author: Monadnock Defensive Tactics System-MDTS)



4. It's the best description of Krav Maga I ever found. It's not only for beginners but also for professionals.
   
   A book that anyone loves Krav Maga should have. It shows a step by step techniques and it is very easy for everybody to read and understand.



5. This was a great read and gives excellent direction towards starting a fitness and/or self defense program. I have reccomended this book to all of my friends and family. I am also looking forward to moving on in this series.

5 comments about Complete Krav Maga: The Ultimate Guide to Over 230 Self-Defense and Combative Techniques.

1. Negatives:
   Text is too brief sometimes, it leaves you guessing as to exactly how a technique is done.
   Positives:
   Good price for what you get. Excellent overview of the system with well done photos to demonstrate the techniques.
   Recommend it:
   Yes. Very helpful for your KM solo training.



2. Many years ago I had the pleasure to train under Darren Levine in an intense 60 hour 6 day course held for defensive tactics instructors at the Illinois State Police Academy. This text provides an excellent guide to achieving belt ranks in this martial art system, if that is your goal. Though I can understand some of the critical reviews of this book; however, no matter how good or bad a book may be, it can never take the place of actual intense hands-on training under a competent instructor. The reason this book should be read by anyone interested in Krav Maga is because it is organized into specific skill levels that a student should master before moving on to the next section. In conclusion, the real value of this text cannot be appreciated without actual physical training under a krav maga instructor. Rating: 4 stars. Joseph J. Truncale, (Pro-Systems Combatives: Author: Monadnock Defensive Tactics System & Advanced PR-24 Baton Techniques)



3. If you are new into Krav Maga, this book will let you understand it's approach to personal defense and will introduce you to basics involving this great method. A must have!



4. This book is complete. I'm a krav maga pratictioner in Brazil, and the details of the book make it's very easy to learn. With photos that explaines step-by-step the punch, kicks and everything. Better than any book i ever seen.



5. I like Krav Maga and treat it with amazing respect. Honestly, the authors did a fine job trying to put Krav Maga into a book for us. Still, after reading it Twice, I think the problem is a basis on techniques and less on principles that make it work. I know there's even a part on the approach on principles, but they don't explain the physics or reactions to the degree I feel is needed. The focus should be on how to get a result, in this case the end of the attacker.
   
   Will the moves work, of course they will. If and only if everything goes as planned. Sadly, it never does.Get this book, but try to look below the surface techniques and go into why it worked with what happens to the target.
   
   Still a decent self defense book. By it used or glance at the first few techniques and see if you can do them when attacked.