The Hindu newspaper

Self-defence techniques are an essential life skill today

Expect trouble. So, you’re alert on dark streets and deserted subways? But what about cheerful shopping malls? Or friendly coffee shops? Or happening beach parties?….

“It’s a drawback in our educational system,” says Delhi-based Vicky Kapoor, Head of Krav Maga India (098104 12442), which teaches the aggressive martial art originally developed by the Israeli military. Discussing how girls are taught to behave like ladies, he says, “They are not allowed to play with boys and told they’re weak. We should teach school girls soccer to build the stamina and aggression they need in crowds, markets, buses…”

Krav Maga, based on natural human reflexes and instincts, on the other hand, requires aggression. “Well, definitely if someone slaps me he or she is not my friend. The idea is to eliminate this behaviour,” says Kapoor, stating that the bottom line is “Fight. Save yourself and family. Then run. While traditional martial arts work with defined rules, Krav Maga has no restrictions. “You can hit anyone anywhere.”

Their defence classesconsist of groups separated into ‘Attackers’ and ‘Defenders.’ After basic training, the Defenders walk through a building in which the Attackers hide, and pounce. “We need to keep as close to reality as possible, or women will freeze outside,” states Kapoor.

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