Traditional martial arts schools have lost the actual application of many techniques. Fundamental to Israeli martial arts and self-defense styles are the actual applications.
Traditional martial arts, in general, rely on consistency; teaching the same techniques over decades or even centuries. Israeli martial arts are continually modified to address the need for new and evolved techniques, the ever-changing world and novel attack strategies and tactics.
Not for sport or competition – Israeli MMA being the application and exception.
Continuously and realistically tested.
Focus on essential movements.
Instinctive – when possible.
Simplicity.
Utility of movement.
Adaptability - continuous evolving.
Effectiveness.
Emphasize teaching of principles over techniques.
Priority on physical conditioning.
Success less dependent on practitioner’s strength.
Focus on mental toughness and preparedness – stress training.
Psychologic and verbal de-escalation techniques.
Instructors have experience in security, law enforcement and/or military – serving or teaching.
Weapon training restricted to those commonly used on the street: sticks, knives, firearms, explosives, etc
Weapon training in how to effectively use – not just disarming techniques.
All aspects of a realistic fight – armed and unarmed addressed.
Multifaceted such that success not dependent on expertise in any one tactic such as punches, kicks, throws, grappling.
Hybrid systems borrowing from multiple systems such as judo, jiujitsu, wrestling, muay thai, aikido, karate, escrima, kung fu, Brazilian jiu jitsu, etc.
Simultaneous defense and attack
Continuous defense/attacks (retzev) until an attacker is neutralized.
Striking focus is against resistance – body or bag rather than in the air.
Use of improvisational weapons and weapons of opportunity – no rules.
No point sparring. Sparring is performed with realism as focus to neutralize attacker and develop fight strategy.
Self-defense strategies/techniques merged with Close Quarters Combat systems – prepares for self-protection whether surprised in an attack or behind enemy lines.
