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Stewart McGill

The course is all about giving you the knowledge you need to defend yourself against the most common street attacks with a series of detailed instructional videos.

These attacks are:

1. An exchange of person pushes, hands to chest, normally followed by one person striking first to the head.

2. Swinging punches to the head.

3. A front clothing grab, one handed, followed by punch to the head.

4. A front clothing grab, two hands, followed by a head butt.

5. A front clothing grab, two hands, followed by a knee to the groin.

6. A swinging bottle attack to the head.

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The course is all about giving you the knowledge you need to defend yourself against the most common street attacks with a series of detailed instructional videos.

These attacks are:

1. An exchange of person pushes, hands to chest, normally followed by one person striking first to the head.

2. Swinging punches to the head.

3. A front clothing grab, one handed, followed by punch to the head.

4. A front clothing grab, two hands, followed by a head butt.

5. A front clothing grab, two hands, followed by a knee to the groin.

6. A swinging bottle attack to the head.

7. A lashing kick to groin/lower legs.

8. A broken bottle/glass jabbed to face.

9. A slashing attack with a knife,

10. A grappling style head lock.

We cover how to defend yourself against all these attacks plus bonus material including:

  • a number of pre-emptive strikes and moves so you can end it before it has begun.
  • A few quick fight finishers.
  • How to handle an upward thrusting knife attack to the midriff and what to do if the guy grabs you and starts to stab/slash
  • How to spot the facial, physical and verbal clues that somebody confronting you is actually about to attack

Suitable for everybody, from complete beginners to experienced Martial Artists who want to learn some real-world applications.

You'll be able to fire any questions about the videos to me, the Chief Instructor of Urban Krav Maga and I will get back to you with a prompt response with additional video instruction if necessary.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Understand the principles and actions needed to defend themselves against the 10 most common street attacks.
  • Know a few bonus moves regarding self defence and some useful fight finishers.

Syllabus

Understand what the course is about and why it's for them.

Welcome to the course. At the end of this you will know how to defend the 10 most common street attacks and a lot of very useful self defence and fighting moves. Practice carefully with a partner or in a group when you can and feel free to contact us with any questions during or after the course, always glad to help.

You can check out our website here if you want to know more about us:

http://www.urbankravmaga.org

Look forward to working with you,


Stewart





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This shows a few pre-emptive moves when the guy confronts you, is "in your face" and you have a genuine and honest belief that he is about to attack you. Action always beats reaction so we always prefer pre-emption if the "run like hell" option is not on.

Always position yourself in a non-aggressive looking "Fence" posture when it looks like it might kick-off: this gives you better ability to both defend and attack if required, and make sure you use calming, emollient language when the confrontation is still at the verbal stage. "I don't want any trouble, mate," "Maybe let's just chat about this,"
that sort of thing, don't make any threats as then you might come across as the aggressor to any witnesses, and don't say things such as "calm down," stuff that does the opposite of that which is intended.

In this, and subsequent videos, always pay attention to the position of the feet and hips, and when practicing focus on the technique not the strength. If you have to use strength to make it work you're probably not doing it right, the strength comes with mastery of the technique.


This shows how to end things if the guy confronting you puts his hands up into a fighting stance. Some of these moves are are also useful finishers if the fight has already begun.

Once it's over, keep a lookout for other dangers and exit the situation as quickly as you can.

It's good to make sure the guy is no longer an immediate threat to you or others but don't hang about punishing him further with unnecessary blows if he is on the ground or otherwise incapacitated; apart from the moral and legal issues you run the risk of exposing yourself to attack from somebody else: end it quickly and get out quickly.



Potential attackers give a range of clues before they resolve to hit you: verbal, facial and physical. This clip shows how to identify some of these clues, and anticipates our next section on blocking swinging punches.

A common scenario prior to a fight is the exchange of pushes; one of the parties pushes the other away to a good punching range, the guy who has just been pushed then takes the opportunity and punches the pusher.

We show here how to deal with pushes in a way that defends, provides the base for an attack and pre-empts any punches being thrown at you.

How to stop the first strike and how to neutralise the attacker quickly before he unleashes a flurry of punches at you. Various techniques are shown, work them all to find out which work best for you.

How to handle a double handed clothing grab and take out the aggressor before he can launch any secondary attacks.

Getting caught in a side headlock can be a very dangerous position: the attacker can take you down, punch you, put a digit in your eye etc. This shows how to position yourself immediately so you can damage the attacker's stability and break the lock quickly.

If the bad guy grabs your head, pulls you down and stars to hit you with his knees around your face or body it gets bad very quickly. Here we show how to stop the knee strikes quickly and safely followed by various ways to take out the attacker so he is no longer part of the problem.

This is last resort stuff. If the guy has a knife, run if you can, throw things at him etc. If there is no alternative and you have to take him on then we show some options here against slashing and upwards thrusting attacks.

Key points are (i) cover as much of your body as possible as you block and counter-attack, (ii) in reality the attacker will recoil the knife quickly and aggressively and unleash multiple attacks, stop the recoil as soon as possible and (iii) rely on leverage, the attacker is going to be fired up and maybe on drugs and/or alcohol, don't think the punch in the face is going to stop him.

After any incident with a knife, it is vitally important that you get yourself checked professionally as soon as possible.You may have been stabbed without knowing it, adrenaline is a great pain killer, some smaller wounds can heal themselves on the surface level but the bleeding continues internally, don't take any chances.

Again, strictly last resort stuff. If the guy is very aggressively and quickly aiming wild knife slashes at you or others, too quickly to allow any other defence to be effect with any chance of success, then the single leg takedown is an option. Its risky but so is standing there allowing the guy to aim slashes at you.

The good thing about this technique is that its unexpected, very hard to stop, and if you do it full speed on the concreted you can severely damage the guy's knee and the back of his head hitting the floor can be very damaging. Some follow up moves are shown, but hopefully the takedown itself will be sufficiently debilitating.

If the guy swings for you with a bottle it is essential that you defend the back of your neck and your eyes. You need to move in and take the guy out quickly as we before he mounts multiple attacks.

What to do if the guy tries to stick a broken bottle or glass straight in the face. Important point here is to keep moving away from the weapon as best you can.

The key thing with these low level kicks is to block them with your legs, not your arms nor hands.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Focuses on real-world scenarios, which helps learners apply techniques effectively in unpredictable street confrontations
Teaches pre-emptive strikes and moves, which allows learners to potentially end confrontations before they escalate
Complements traditional martial arts training, which helps learners bridge the gap between theory and practical application
Emphasizes quick fight finishers, which allows learners to swiftly neutralize threats and escape dangerous situations
Explores verbal, facial, and physical cues of potential attackers, which helps learners anticipate and avoid dangerous situations
Includes knife defense techniques, which are last resort skills that require extreme caution and awareness of legal implications

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Reviews summary

Urban krav maga street self-defense

According to learners, this course provides highly practical and effective self-defense techniques specifically tailored for common street attacks. Many students found the instructions to be clear and easy to follow, making it accessible even for complete beginners. The instructor is frequently praised for their expertise and clear explanations. While the video quality is functional, the focus remains firmly on delivering actionable, no-nonsense techniques that students feel could genuinely help them in dangerous situations. Reviewers emphasize the importance of practicing the moves diligently to gain proficiency.
Techniques need consistent practice.
"While the course teaches the moves, it's crucial to practice them regularly with a partner to make them instinctive."
"Understanding is one thing, but applying it requires dedicated practice time."
"The course provides the knowledge, but proficiency depends on your own effort and practice partners."
"It’s vital to practice the moves repeatedly to build muscle memory."
Suitable for those new to self-defense.
"As a complete beginner, I found this course easy to jump into and learn valuable skills."
"No prior martial arts experience is needed. The course starts with the basics relevant to self-defense."
"It builds confidence without requiring advanced physical ability."
"Perfect starting point for anyone wanting to learn how to defend themselves."
Instructor is knowledgeable and skilled.
"Stewart is clearly very knowledgeable and experienced. His teaching style is engaging."
"The instructor's passion for Urban Krav Maga comes through and makes the learning enjoyable."
"Appreciate the instructor's real-world experience being shared."
"Great instructor who knows his stuff and explains it well."
Instructions are easy to understand.
"The instructor explains everything clearly and demonstrates the moves effectively. Easy to follow along."
"Videos break down techniques step-by-step, making complex moves simple."
"The explanations are concise and to the point, no unnecessary fluff."
"Clear communication from the instructor makes learning these techniques very accessible."
Focuses on highly practical methods.
"The techniques are very simple yet effective for real-life situations. I feel more confident knowing these moves."
"Excellent course covering defenses against very common attacks. It's exactly what I needed for practical self-defense."
"Straightforward, no-nonsense approach to defending against the most likely threats on the street."
"I appreciate the focus on practicality over fancy moves. These techniques seem genuinely useful."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Urban Krav Maga: Defending The Most Common Street Attacks with these activities:
Review Basic Striking Techniques
Reviewing basic striking techniques will help you better understand the preemptive strikes and fight finishers taught in the course.
Show steps
  • Watch videos on basic punches, kicks, elbows, and knees.
  • Practice the techniques slowly with a partner.
  • Focus on proper form and technique.
Review 'The Gift of Fear'
Reading 'The Gift of Fear' will improve your ability to recognize pre-attack indicators, which is a key component of the course.
View Melania on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read the book 'The Gift of Fear'.
  • Take notes on key concepts and principles.
  • Reflect on how these concepts apply to the course material.
Practice Blocking and Striking with a Partner
Practicing blocking and striking techniques with a partner will reinforce the defenses taught in the course and improve reaction time.
Show steps
  • Find a partner to practice with.
  • Review the blocking and striking techniques from the course.
  • Practice the techniques slowly at first, then gradually increase speed.
  • Provide each other with feedback on technique and form.
Three other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all six activities
Create a Self-Defense Scenario Video
Creating a self-defense scenario video will help you apply the techniques learned in the course to realistic situations and solidify your understanding.
Show steps
  • Choose a common street attack from the course.
  • Plan a scenario that demonstrates the attack and defense.
  • Film the scenario with a partner.
  • Edit the video and add narration explaining the techniques used.
Review 'Krav Maga: How to Defend Yourself Against Armed Assault'
Reading this book will provide a deeper understanding of Krav Maga principles and techniques for defending against armed assaults.
Show steps
  • Read the book 'Krav Maga: How to Defend Yourself Against Armed Assault'.
  • Focus on the sections related to knife and bottle defenses.
  • Compare the techniques in the book to those taught in the course.
Develop a Personal Self-Defense Plan
Developing a personal self-defense plan will help you internalize the course material and prepare for real-world situations.
Show steps
  • Assess your personal risk factors and vulnerabilities.
  • Identify common attack scenarios you might face.
  • Develop a plan for each scenario, incorporating techniques from the course.
  • Practice your plan with a partner or in a safe environment.

Career center

Learners who complete Urban Krav Maga: Defending The Most Common Street Attacks will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Bouncer
Bouncers are responsible for maintaining order and security in bars, nightclubs, and other venues. This course equips bouncers with the knowledge and skills to defend against prevalent street attacks. Learning to defend against pushes, punches, and grabs can be extremely helpful in managing unruly patrons and de-escalating conflicts. The course's focus on pre-emptive moves and situational awareness may enable a bouncer to proactively prevent fights and maintain a safe environment. The practical techniques taught in the course may provide the bouncer with the necessary tools to handle potentially dangerous situations effectively.
Personal Protection Specialist
A personal protection specialist, or bodyguard, ensures the safety of individuals. This course may be useful for a personal protection specialist, providing the skills to defend against common street attacks. Knowing how to handle physical altercations, use pre-emptive strikes, and identify pre-attack indicators are invaluable for protecting clients from harm. The techniques taught in the course may allow a personal protection specialist to react efficiently and effectively in potentially dangerous situations, ensuring the safety of their client.
Security Guard
A security guard protects property, assets, and people. This course equips security guards with the knowledge to defend against common street attacks. Understanding preemptive moves and fight finishers can be invaluable in quickly neutralizing threats and maintaining a safe environment. The course may be helpful in recognizing pre-attack behaviors, which allows a security guard to proactively de-escalate potentially violent situations. The practical techniques taught in the course may also provide a security guard with the skills needed to protect themselves and others from physical harm.
Campus Security Officer
Campus security officers maintain safety and security on college and university campuses. This course equips campus security officers with the skills to defend against common street attacks, which may be useful in maintaining a safe environment for students and staff. The course may help a campus security officer learn how to handle physical altercations, use pre-emptive strikes, and identify indicators of an impending attack. The practical techniques taught in the course may enhance a campus security officer's ability to respond effectively to potential threats and protect the campus community.
Border Patrol Agent
Border patrol agents secure national borders and often encounter dangerous situations. This course may be useful by providing the skills to defend against common street attacks, which can be particularly valuable in high-risk environments. Learning techniques for managing physical confrontations, using pre-emptive strikes, and identifying indicators of an impending attack can improve their ability to handle threats effectively. The skills taught in the course may help border patrol agents protect themselves and others while performing their duties.
Law Enforcement Officer
A career as a law enforcement officer involves maintaining public order and safety. This course may be useful because it provides practical self-defense techniques for common street attacks. The course may help an officer understand how to defend against pushes, punches, grabs, and other physical assaults, potentially improving their ability to handle confrontations safely and effectively. The course may be useful because it teaches the participant in identifying pre-attack indicators, which can aid in de-escalating situations before they turn violent. Such skills are essential for law enforcement officers.
Corrections Officer
Corrections officers maintain order and security within correctional facilities. This course may be useful by providing corrections officers with self-defense skills, preparing them to handle potential confrontations in a high-pressure environment. Learning how to defend against common attacks such as punches, grabs, and headlocks can be crucial for maintaining control and protecting oneself and others. The techniques and strategies presented in the course may enable a corrections officer to respond effectively to threats and maintain a safe environment within the facility.
Loss Prevention Officer
Loss prevention officers work to prevent theft and maintain security in retail environments. This course may be useful by providing loss prevention officers with strategies for self-defense in potentially confrontational situations. The course may help a loss prevention officer in defending against common street attacks, preventing thefts, and apprehending suspects safely. The ability to identify pre-attack indicators can also improve their ability to de-escalate tense situations and prevent violence.
Private Investigator
Private investigators often work in situations where they may encounter physical threats. This course may be useful by providing a private investigator with self-defense skills to handle potentially dangerous encounters. Knowing how to defend against common street attacks and identifying pre-attack behavior can improve their safety while conducting investigations. The practical techniques taught in the course may empower a private investigator to protect themselves in unpredictable situations.
Park Ranger
Park rangers patrol and protect parks and natural areas, and may encounter unpredictable situations. This course may be useful by providing park rangers with self-defense skills to handle potential threats during their patrols. The course may help a park ranger learn how to defend against common street attacks, manage confrontational individuals, and protect themselves from harm. The ability to identify pre-attack indicators can also improve their ability to anticipate and prevent dangerous situations.
Security Consultant
Security consultants assess risks and develop security plans for organizations and individuals. This course may be useful for a security consultant by providing a deeper understanding of common street threats and effective self-defense strategies. With a solid understanding of physical defense tactics, a security consultant may be better equipped to advise clients on personal safety measures and security protocols. Learning to identify pre-attack indicators may enhance a security consultant's ability to assess potential risks and develop effective prevention strategies.
Probation Officer
Probation officers supervise offenders released into the community and may encounter risky situations. This course may be useful by providing the skills to defend against common street attacks, which enhances their safety during home visits and meetings. The course may help a probation officer learn techniques for handling potentially volatile situations, using de-escalation tactics, and protecting themselves from physical harm. The ability to identify pre-attack indicators can also improve their ability to anticipate and prevent dangerous encounters.
Emergency Medical Technician
Emergency medical technicians respond to medical emergencies and may encounter dangerous situations. This course may be useful by providing the skills to defend against common street attacks, ensuring their safety while providing care. The course may help an emergency medical technician learn how to protect themselves from potential violence, allowing them to focus on assisting others. Learning to identify pre-attack indicators can also help emergency medical technicians anticipate and avoid dangerous situations.
Social Worker
Social workers often work with vulnerable populations and may encounter challenging situations where their safety is at risk. This course may be useful for a social worker by providing strategies for defending against common street attacks, which improves their personal safety in the field. The course may help a social worker learn techniques for handling difficult clients, de-escalating tense situations, and protecting themselves from potential violence. The ability to identify pre-attack indicators and use pre-emptive moves can also enhance their ability to prevent dangerous incidents.
Teacher
While teaching is primarily an academic role, this course may be useful for a teacher because it prepares them to handle disruptive or potentially violent situations that may arise in a school environment. The knowledge of self-defense techniques and pre-emptive strategies taught in the course may help a teacher protect themselves and their students from harm. Understanding how to identify pre-attack indicators and manage potentially dangerous situations can also contribute to a safer classroom environment.

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Urban Krav Maga: Defending The Most Common Street Attacks .
Provides a more in-depth look at Krav Maga techniques, particularly those related to armed assaults. While the course covers basic defenses, this book expands on those techniques and provides additional strategies. It is useful for students who want to delve deeper into the subject matter and learn more advanced defenses. This book valuable resource for understanding the principles behind Krav Maga and its application to real-world situations.

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