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History of Krav Maga

Krav Maga
Imi Lichtenfeld

This highly effective system of Self Defence was originally developed by Imi Lichtenfeld (pictured right). Imi moved to Israel from Slovakia after the end of World War II. After the formation of Israel in 1948, Imi became the Chief Instructor of Physical Training and Krav Maga at the Israeli Defence Force's (IDF) School of Combat Fitness. During this time he taught Krav Maga to the IDF's most elite units including the Haganah, and the Special Commando units of the Palmack, and Palyam. Upon retiring in 1964 from the IDF, Imi adapted the Krav Maga style for civilian use as a self defence system.

The most widely recognised organisation of Krav Maga is now the International Federation of Krav Maga (IKMF) and is headed by the World Wide Chief Instructor Eyal Yanilov (pictured left). Eyal was taught directly by Imi and holds the highest grade ever awarded by the founder, Master level 3/Expert Level 8.

Today Krav Maga has been used by various Hollywood stars including; Jennifer Lopez in the film 'Enough', Kristanna Loken in 'Terminator 3' and Angelina Jolie in 'Tomb Raider'. Krav Maga is also used by various law enforcement agencies, world wide, including various SWAT teams, the FBI and is also the official Self Defence System of various military forces around the globe from Israel, Europe, South America, Australia, Japan and the United States.