Originally developed in the 1950s and taught to the Israeli Army, Krav Maga has become a sensation in the realm of self-defense, both in Israel and around the globe.
Known for its effectiveness as a combat method as well as its popularity in recent years as a trendy physical fitness technique, Krav Maga is a hot topic among martial arts enthusiasts and athletes.
Unlike a lot of other forms of martial arts, Krav Maga has a very singular focus: self-defense under attack at all costs.
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According to the Krav Maga Institute, the emphasis is not on competition or showcasing skills, but rather on placing the student under extraordinary pressure and stress in order to prepare for the worst.
Collected here are the top four books for learning more about this unique practice.
1. "Krav Maga: Real World Solutions to Real World Violence"
by Gershon Ben Keren
A step-by-step guide to learning the skill of Krav Maga, this book provides readers with photographs shot in real time, often in the scenarios where they would be likely to occur such as in a bar or at an ATM.
The book also encourages readers to avoid violence before it even has the chance to occur in the first place.
2. "Krav Maga: An Essential Guide to the Renowned Method for Fitness and Self-Defense"
by David Kahn
Written by Krav Maga expert David Kahn, this instructional guide teaches the basics including how to use an attacker's momentum to your own advantage.
Released in 2004, the book approaches the topic from both the standpoint of physical fitness as well as that of self-defense.
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Unique drills and a 12-week training program are also detailed in this book.
3. "Black Belt Krav Maga: Elite Techniques of the World's Most Powerful Combat System"
by Darren Levine and Ryan Hoover
This thorough manual on Krav Maga offers more than 500 step-by-step illustrations detailing counterattacks for various violent situations.
The 192-page book is authored by two of Krav Maga's most respected experts, Darren Levine and Ryan Hoover. A sixth-degree black belt, Levine also serves on an exclusive unit with the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office. Hoover is the owner of Krav Maga Worldwide black belt and regional training center. Many other skilled Krav Maga specialists are consulted within the pages of the book.
4. "American Krav Maga"
by Mark Slane
Authored by third-degree black belt and United States Krav Maga Association founder Mark Slane, "American Krav Maga" focuses not only on the teachings of Krav Maga, but also its overall philosophy.
At a hefty 352 pages, it is packed full of useful information for those looking for a complete guide to mastering Krav Maga.
It is a useful volume for both fine-tuning Krav Maga skills as well as teaching them to others.
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