This page provides details on Krav Maga stances. Unlike other martial arts that have a variety of stances (i.e. horse riding stance), Krav Maga has only two stances – a neutral or passive stance and a fighting stance. For other Krav Maga techniques (i.e. kicks, punches and grappling), please visit the main Krav Maga Techniques section.
A Krav Maga neutral/passive stance is where the martial artist is in a regular everyday position (i.e. walking on the street or talking to a friend). This is the stance where they have been caught unaware and haven’t had time to go into a fighting stance. In contrast, a Krav Maga fighting stance is where the martial artist is ready to defend themselves against an attacker. In Krav Maga, martial arts students learn how to defend themselves if they are in a fighting stance or if they have been caught in a neutral/passive stance.
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.
Videos on the Krav Maga Neutral & Fighting Stances