Retzev, OODA Loop, Curriculum and Testing

I have noticed that some individuals have landed on my blog because they were searching for information on a particular topic. I would like to address the four topics that currently seem to be searched the most.

Retzev
Retzev is defined in David Kahn’s book “Krav Maga.”

Unlike other types of martial arts, krav maga emphasizes retzev, a Hebrew word that means “continuous motion.” To become a successful kravist, you must seamlessly integrate synchronized defensive and offensive techniques in an intuitive manner. It is imperative to understand the difference between retzev and merely a series of counterattacks. Whereas a series of counterattacks lacks continuity and does not flow automatically, retzev teaches you to move your body instinctively in combat motion without thinking about the next move.

OODA Loop
In combat, each person must: Observe what is happening; Orient to the observations (interpret the sensory input); Decide what to do about it; and Act.

• O: You see a fist suddenly growing larger. (observe)
• O: I’m being punched! (orient)
• D: What should I do about it? Block or duck? Duck! (decide)
• A: Duck! (act)

The assailant is on step four when his action triggers your step one. His “act” is the first thing you “observe.”

Time is lost in the middle two steps. In the orientation step, inexperienced people try to gather too much or too little information. Hick’s Law can surface in the decide step. Hick’s Law states that the more options you have, the longer it takes to choose one.

For more information on the OODA loop, read Rory Miller’s book Meditations on Violence or see Chet Richards’ seven slide presentation.

Krav Maga Curriculum
I will only address the Krav Maga Worldwide (KMWW) curriculum because I’m only familiar with that curriculum. It can be found in the book Complete Krav Maga. In addition, you can find KMWW curriculum outlines for each belt level on the Krav Maga Dallas/Fort Worth Web site.

Belt Testing
Belt testing varies within and between the Krav Maga organizations. The common denominator seems to be the arduousness of the tests. Ask your instructor(s) the following questions:

• How will the test be conducted?
• What material will I be tested on?
• How long it will take to complete the test?
• What will you be looking for during the test?

I hope this has been helpful.