Fight Podcast #14: ICCS and why it doesn’t say “Krav Maga” in the title

In this episode of the Fight Podcast, hosts Sharir Richman and Jan welcome their listeners and provide insights into the origins and development of ICCS, as well as the broader context of combat training for civilians and the military. The episode begins with a casual conversation about biking and quickly shifts to the main topic: the foundation and purpose of ICCS.

Sharir explains that ICCS is an international organization for Krav Maga, which he describes as "MMA for the street." He shares his background as a Krav Maga instructor in the military and private sectors, initially focusing on training military personnel, police, and secret services. His transition to teaching civilians began when a persistent student from a private military course convinced him to conduct a seminar in France. This seminar marked the beginning of ICCS's international presence.

Sharir emphasizes the variability in Krav Maga instruction, noting that its effectiveness often depends on the instructor's background and experience. He recalls his own experiences in the military, where he frequently had to retrain soldiers who had received inadequate training elsewhere. His teaching approach has been heavily influenced by his extensive background in various martial arts disciplines such as boxing and wrestling.

Jan and Sharir discuss the integration of MMA principles into Krav Maga, stressing the importance of fundamentals and aggression drills. Sharir makes it clear that a significant part of military training consists of these drills to instill a fighter's mindset and ensure soldiers can perform under pressure. He points out that the same principles apply to training civilians, especially beginners who need to develop a solid foundation before moving on to more advanced techniques.

The hosts explore the role of personal experiences and practical applications in refining combat techniques. Sharir shares anecdotes from his time in the military and private sectors, illustrating how real-world encounters and feedback from students who have used these techniques in actual situations have helped him continuously improve and evolve the ICCS curriculum.

In conclusion, this episode offers a comprehensive overview of ICCS, its origins, and its mission, providing listeners with a deeper understanding of the principles and methodologies that underpin effective combat training for both civilians and military personnel.