Crime is a real problem. Krav Maga is a real solution.
Krav Maga is fast becoming the self defence of choice for women around the world, who are looking for an effective, easy to learn system aimed at defending oneself against an attacker who is bigger and stronger. Jennifer Lopez, Angelina Jolie and Britney Spears are amongst the famous women who trained in Krav Maga. Jennifer Lopez took it up for her role in the film “Enough”, with Angelina Jolie also learning techniques for the film “Tomb Raider”. Britney Spears reportedly took up Krav Maga after feeling threatened by a stalker. Those who have seen the Clint Eastwood movie, “Million Dollar Baby”, will know Hillary Swank plays the part of a female boxer, perhaps lesser known is that she trains in Krav Maga affirming that it is a great way to stay fit, adding, “You punch, you kick, you also learn how to get out of a choke hold. I love, love it.”
The Warrior Training Centre (WTC) provided a self defence seminar to Star College Sybrand Park to 70 female learners. The key focus was first on mental preparation ensuring a strong mind to be able to remain in control and avoid conflict. When avoidance is not possible, effective defences to the most common street attacks were taught, to be used only when absolutely necessary to act (to save their lives, or that of their loved ones).
Initiatives such as these have increased in light of the recent drive to raise awareness for femicide, as our beloved country of South Africa is left reeling with the recent headlines of high profile murders of a UCT student and a boxing champion. The seminar provided a “taster” of the more comprehensive programme covered in the 4 week course (Basic) and the 8 week option (Practitioner), structured by way of two hour lessons carried out on a weekly basis. Having the course spread out over 4 or 8 weeks, facilitates the retention of information, as techniques are continuously reinforced.
The WTC’s Chief Krav Maga instructor, Claudio Chiste, is also a Leadership and Mental Toughness Coach, who after nine years in the military and ten years in the corporate world is now coaching individuals to be a better version of themselves. In addition to the self-defence, emphasis is placed on improving mental skills, including how to:
1. Control your emotions: Stay grounded, stay humble.
2. Conduct regular check-ins on both mental and physical well-being
3. Set high, realistic goals.
4. Create micro-goals towards your goals
5. Visualise your goals, mentally rehearse your micro-goals
6. Manage anxiety effectively
7. Use positive self-talk
8. Deal effectively with people
At the WTC these mental skills are combined with self-defence through reality-based, purposeful practice.
THE WTC TEAM: From left to right. Mo Adams, Edwin Nel and Claudio Chiste