February 19, 2004
Ingredients: 8oz Whoop Ass
If you're looking to study a martial art with a little more real-world applicability than your standard fare (for example, Taekwondo's focus on head-kicking won't serve you well should you get jumped in a crowded bar), or if you're just looking for a fun cardio workout, I recommend Krav Maga.
Krav Maga is the official self defense system of the Israeli Defense Forces, and has been taught to hundreds of law enforcement agencies and thousands of civilians in the United States. Krav Maga is a simple, effective self defense system that emphasizes instinctive movements, practical techniques, and realistic training scenarios.
In Lincoln, I study under the instructors from Longoria's, though I'm currently taking classes not at their academy but at World Gym, where I already spend time lifting small automobiles for sport. Dan is a great teacher, and I definitely would not exchange harsh words with his wife Patty. She'll kick your ass, boys.
I sincerely hope that I will never have to utilize what I'm learning (pacifist here), but should the worst occur it's always better to be prepared, in any aspect of life. I'm also having a blast, and I must admit that though I'm still a newbie, I'm already carrying myself with more confidence. As a thin guy, I am likely never going to win any battle of strength that truly matters, so my angle must be that I fight better. I'm also no sloth, but I've always preferred the "work smarter, not harder" philosophy. In the matter of self defense, I aim to use my body far more effectively, far more efficiently than my opponent uses his. And if weapons are involved, beware the deadly extension of my body that is The Spatula.
Comments
Knowledge or weaponry itself does not prevent one from walking in peace, but rather, encourages it.
Indeed. One thing I've taken from Krav that has never been explicitly said, but that is seeping it's way deep into my mind is that being in a fight is the last place I want to be. Krav is all about fucking up your guy (and his buddies if need be), fucking him up hard, so you can continue ASAP with getting the hell out of there. Groin, throat, kidneys; if it's effective, it's on the plate, no exceptions. We're definitely not sport boxing here.
Prior to starting Krav, if provoked, I would probably have willingly fought to save face, and because I had an inflated idea of my ability. Now, I don't wany any part of any violence, other than sparring. My pacifism has risen to a new level. I will run like a yellow-belly. Injury or death to myself or my adversary is not worth any amount of money or ego. If I have to fight, it will be because it's my only viable option, and I will engage with the express intent of disabling my opponent, permanently if necessary. I will not be fighting for show.
Exactly as you said, as my knowledge and my weaponry (in this case, my body) increase, so does my purpose of peace.
Hey Blaine, how much $ are classes typically? I looked around but didn't see anything on his website. It sounds like something interesting to try this summer maybe.
I pay $10 a session. That rate may be different from the norm since it's hosted at my gym, but I doubt it.
Knowledge or weaponry itself does not prevent one from walking in peace, but rather, encourages it.