Ep 5. Israel: Masters of War

In season 1 episode 5 of FIGHTWORLD, viewers are taken on a journey to the heart of Israel to witness the art of Krav Maga. Host Frank Grillo is joined by his friend, Eyal Yanilov, a prominent Krav Maga instructor, as they visit various gyms and meet with some of the most skilled practitioners of the martial art.

Krav Maga originated in Israel and was developed for the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF). It is a self-defense system that utilizes practical techniques and movements to quickly neutralize an attacker. As Grillo and Yanilov travel around Israel, they experience the country's rich history and culture, all while exploring the significance of Krav Maga.

The episode starts at MaxKravMaga gym, where Grillo and Yanilov meet with Avi Moyal, one of Krav Maga's highest-ranking instructors. He demonstrates how the martial art differs from traditional combat sports with the emphasis on aggression and striking to vulnerable parts of an attacker's body. Moyal also shares some insights into how Krav Maga training can help improve one's mental and emotional resilience.

The next stop on their journey takes them to the desert region of the Negev, where they meet with Nissim Harow. He is one of the few people in the world who holds a black belt in both Krav Maga and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Harow runs a gym in the middle of Israel's barren landscape, where he teaches students from all over the world. Grillo and Yanilov get to witness a unique mixture of Krav Maga and Jiu-Jitsu, as Harow demonstrates how Krav Maga can be adapted to accommodate other fighting styles.

The following day, they visit the Israel Defense Forces training center, where Krav Maga is still used to train soldiers in hand-to-hand combat. The IDF has been using Krav Maga since its inception in the 1940s, and it has become a significant part of Israeli culture. Grillo and Yanilov are taken through some of the drills, which are designed to simulate real-life combat situations. The training is intense, and Grillo marvels at the dedication of the soldiers.

The episode ends with Grillo and Yanilov visiting a rehabilitation center for injured soldiers. They meet with rehabilitation specialists who have implemented Krav Maga as part of the therapy programs. The martial art is used to help soldiers regain their confidence and physical mobility after serious injuries. Grillo and Yanilov get to witness the joy on the soldiers' faces as they train in Krav Maga, and it becomes clear that the martial art has a more profound impact than simply the physical benefits.

Overall, season 1 episode 5 of FIGHTWORLD is a fascinating exploration of Krav Maga in its home country of Israel. The episode highlights the evolution of the martial art and its significance in Israeli culture. Grillo and Yanilov do an excellent job of portraying the passion and dedication of the Krav Maga community in Israel, and viewers will come away with a new appreciation and understanding of this unique martial art.