Self-Defense

Muay Thai Clinching: The Plum

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Attacking and defending “in the clinch” is fundamental to Muay Thai. Unlike Western boxing, and other kickboxing styles, grappling with an opponent in Muay Thai is legal. The Plum (a.k.a., Muay Thai Clinch, Muay Thai Plum, Thai Clinch, Double Collar Tie) is a clinch position where one fighter wraps both hands behind the neck and pinches their forearms in front of the neck of an opponent. This technique can be used to control the posture and movement of, set up knee strikes to, and trip or throw an opponent. Read on to learn more about The Plum!

Krav Maga Grappling: The Side Clinch

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In combat sports, or self-defense, “clinching” refers to a category of close-quarters techniques. There are multiple types of clinches: the Muay Thai plumb, the body lock, etc. All of these are used in a standing grappling situation and can be used offensively or defensively. The most common clinch taught in Krav Maga is the “Side Clinch”. This particular technique can be very effective in controlling (and defending oneself against) an attacker and useful in setting up combatives (offensive maneuvers), such as the groin kick or knee strikes. Read on to learn more about the Krav Maga Side Clinch!

The Founder of Krav Maga – Imre “Imi” Lichtenfeld

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Imi Lichtenfeld led the effort to develop Krav Maga, the unarmed fighting system used by the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF). Krav Maga was originally developed for a small group of Jews (pre-WWII) as a system of proven techniques, that could be quickly learned to defend against physical attacks. Over time Krav Maga was systematized as the primary empty-hand training for military personnel. During his service in the IDF, Imi Lichtenfeld developed and refined his hand-to-hand combat techniques. After leaving the military, he adapted Krav Maga for civilian self-defense, enabling schools and training facilities to begin teaching Krav Maga to everyone. Read on to learn more about this fascinating history!