The Sunday Times


“The most realistic self defence system in the UK today”

Combat Magazine

“It (Krav Maga) has more self defence cred than any other system we know about – and we know quite a bit about the subject!”

GQ Magazine

Best in the World for self defence. It is totally practical, no flashy kicks or great spiritual angle.

Krav Maga has a unique set of principles and approach to training. These principles of Krav Maga evolved from decades of front line exposure to high intensity violence and aggression. Broadly speaking, the principles of Krav Maga are divided into 2 categories. Training principles, and combat principles. The object of this short article is to outline these principles in simple terms.

Combat Principles

1. Stop the immediate threat

The first and most immediate concern is to stop an immediate attack and prevent/reduce injury. This may mean prioritising between 2 simultaneous threats such as being held by the throat and punched in the face.This is the most important principle of all.

2. Immediate, aggressive counterattacks

The Kravist should use fast, aggressive strikes to vulnerable areas as soon as possible. There should be the smallest amount of time between defending and attack possible. Countering quickly prevents further attacks and may stop the attacker immediately.

3. Disengage as quickly as possible

The ultimate objective of Krav Maga is survival – not defeat of an attacker. The Kravist will disengage from the assailant as quickly as possible. The majority of assaults have 2 or more attackers so it is vital the Kravist disengage quickly and escape the situation. Exceptions to this principle could be the need to protect a third party, to make an arrest, or to remove a weapon – for example a firearm.

4. Scan for the next threat

After disengaging, the Kravist must scan for further threats and dangers. An emphasis is placed on physically scanning around, as the movement of scanning helps overcome the effects of stress induced tunnel vision. Moving the head also helps the eyes identify movement in the peripheral vision.

Training Principles

British Krav Maga has a series of guiding principles relating to training in Krav Maga.

1. Simplicity

Techniques should be as simple as possible. Simple techniques are faster to learn. Easier to master and better retained over time. Simple techniques are more reliable in high stress situations. Complexity should be saved for sport, dance and martial arts – not survival.

2. Use Natural Responses and Reactions

Where possible, Krav Maga uses natural reactions and reflexes. Krav Maga stresses an intuitive approach to combat. This is characterised by the use of gross motor movements where possible.

3. Utility

The same defence should be used for as many attacks as possible, If each attack requires a separate defence, the Kravist would be required to learn an unending number of techniques. Instead, Krav Maga teaches a small number of techniques that are highly adaptable and easily mastered.

4. There are no rules in survival

The Kravist will use any means available to protect themselves or a loved one. Improvised weapons, striking to the groin, gouging or biting are all acceptable. Criminals recognise no code of conduct – neither should the Kravist. The prime objective is survival.

Krav Maga Self Defence Programme

  • Up to 1200 kcal / hour
  • 35 paricipants
  • Intensity: Low - Moderate
60 to 120

Minutes

What our students say

“Having trained and instructed in several martial arts for the last 30 years, completed courses with some of most respected instructors in the world, engaged in door safe courses, trained with the British Army, I’ve yet to find anything that brings as much realism to my attitude to self defence as much as Krav Maga does.
This coupled with the fact that Jim Halton is one of the most all rounded instructors I’ve had the pleasure to train under, I feel more than qualified to recommend this school to anyone wishing to better themselves, either physically, mentally or just out of need to feel safe.” – Tony Baxter, Bristol
Tony BaxterTrains with Jim Halton in Kingswood

“I have done many kinds of martial arts, I have been trained by the Royal Marine Commandos. But I have never found a better form of defense. This is not down to Krav Maga alone. Jim is one of the best trainers I have ever had the pleasure to work with.

Every one of his lessons leave you feeling Fitter, Faster and Stronger. Not just physically but mentally. Krav also gives you a safe state of mind, because of the training Jim gives you, no matter what situation you face, you will always react with appropriate action” – Jon Bale, Thornbury, Gloucestershire.

John BaleStudent with Jim Halton

“I’ve been training with Jim Halton and the Titans now for nearly 3 years.  In that time i’ve become  stronger, faster, fitter and more confident than I ever thought I could be and it’s only going to get better.  Krav training is hard, you push yourself but the rewards you get back are unbelievable. Come and give it a go, don’t think about it, just do it!”

Liz SweetStudent - Jim Halton Krav Maga Kingswood

After training in various disciplines, I’ve finally found Krav Maga and the Bristol Titans, Krav Maga is by far the most comprehensive martial art I’ve ever trained in pushing me to my physical limits and teaching me techniques that work in real life, Bristol Titans is a team of people that are very humble with a no ego attitude, this helps you develop in your training better than any atmosphere I’ve ever trained in, Jim is a fantastic coach with a wealth of experience and extremely approachable regardless of your standard”

Marcus Whitcombe

What we do in this class:

The Self Defence Programme focuses on starting from a position of disadvantage. The Kravist learns a range of block, reversals and releases against common attacks standing, sitting and on the ground. Common scenarios:

  • Verbal Threats and Demands
  • Chokes, grips and holds
  • Being on the ground
  • Weapons (edged, impact and firearms)
  • Multiple attackers

[Paragraph about training with you, and any training philosophy – emphasise beginners welcome and briefly outline length]

Please arrive 10 minutes early for your first class so [INSTRUCTOT NAME]  can introduce himself and speak with you before training commences.

Beginners are most welcome. No experience is required.

Please bring along:

Please bring the following to your first class:

Training kit – shorts/training bottoms and T shirt

Trainers

2 X 500 ml bottles of fluid

Protective equipment if owned

Schedule

  • Monday

    From 8:00 – 9:00

  • Wednesday

    From 8:00 – 9:00

  • Thursday

    From 12:00-13:00

Suitable for:

Krav Maga Bristol Bootcamps

Over 18’s

All abilities

Trigger Alert – Replicates violence and street crime, may feature some adult themes & scenarios