Imi Lichtenfeld

Imi Lichtenfeld is known like the official founder of the method Krav Maga. It is deceased in January 1998.

Since its death, there is a multiplication of the federations of Krav Maga. Each one proclaims single heiress of Imi.

Discusses on the bond of paternity binding Imi and the method Krav Maga

A question arises concerning the bond of paternity between Imi and the Krav Maga: was this method created only by Imi Lichtenfeld or is this the realization of a group?

Although Imi are recognized by Israel like the official creator of Krav Maga, perhaps is necessary it to make a distinction in 3 times:

1st stage: The stroke of genius

There are strong chances so that the concept was born from imagination of Imi Lichtenfeld: to develop a simple, effective method and quickly assimilable to meet the needs for the Israeli Armed .

2nd stage: Contents of the method

It seems more reasonable to think than Imi Lichtenfeld is not that which developed all the techniques contained in the method. Indeed, those were born from a progressive readjustment made possible by the experience feedbacks on the battle field. If Imi had the idea in first, there is necessarily collaboration between him and a group of instructors and soldiers. It would be thus erroneous to believe that Imi Lichtenfeld is the single creator of the contents of the method.

3rd stage: Systematization

After the idea and the development of following contents of the principles (ex: the shortest way, defense and simultaneous counter-attack) but however disordered remainder, it was time to structure with order the discoveries to be able to teach them. From this point of view also, Imi were obviously put at contribution but it was certainly not alone. Its former students had to take part.

Conclusion

The official thesis which supports that Imi Lichtenfeld is the founder of the method thus simplifies reality. This position allows two things:

To give a " visage" concrete and nonabstract with the father of the method. Indeed, it is easier to identify a person than a group.
To create a legend on this " visage". Indeed, on the model of Asian martial arts, certain facts seem to be added to give an extraordinary character to the life of Imi Lichtenfeld:

During its childhood, whereas he played with his brother, this last empoigna a firearm and aimed Imi which counteracted by a defense. The child had chance because the gun was charged!
If Imi Lichtenfeld indeed were an active element of the fight against the Nazism in its city, the way whose history is presented can lend to discussion!
Whereas it sails on the boat bringing back it out of Holy Land, it saves a man of the drowning while plunging in a hostile water which will cost him almost the life!
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