This page provides details on the Krav Maga eye strike. This technique is used by Krav Maga students as a self-defense weapon for close combat or if trapped by a stronger opponent. For other techniques (i.e. punches & kicks), please visit Black Belt Wiki’s main section on Krav Maga Techniques.
Eye strikes are illegal in almost all martial arts sparring competitions. These attacks on vital areas are taught by martial arts schools in order to be used only in life or death situations as they can severely injure an opponent. In order to reduce the potential for accidents, many martial arts schools practice eye strikes against the eyes of BOB (Body Opponent Bags) training dummies versus “live” students. Or they practice against students who are wearing large plastic face shields in order to protect the student’s eyes and face.
These pages are meant to reinforce and supplement what you have learned in your Krav Maga classes. To properly understand these techniques, you need to learn them from a Krav Maga instructor who can give an in-depth explanation of the technique, correct your mistakes and detail how the technique should be utilized. Moreover, be aware that there are a variety of Krav Maga schools and associations so martial arts students might learn variations to these techniques.
All martial arts techniques should only be practiced under the supervision of a trained martial arts instructor in order to prevent injuries and to ensure the proper technique is utilized. In addition, all martial arts techniques and training should be used safely and responsibly.
Krav Maga – Eye Strike