November 2005 - A Self-defence system originally developed for use in the hostile environments of the Middle East is to be taught in Aberdeen for the first time.

Krav maga has seen a massive increase in popularity since its introduction to Scotland three months ago.

Translating from the Hebrew as contact combat, krav maga is now practised by some 200,000 people worldwide.

Apart from being the standard unarmed combat system in use by the Israeli Defence Force, it is also a favourite of law-enforcement agencies such as the FBI.

Krav maga's strength, however, lies in its accessibility to people of all ages and abilities. It is easy to learn and based on real-life scenarios. Students are taught to use hands, elbows, knees and heads to stop an attacker.

Classes are currently running in Glasgow, Helensburgh and Edinburgh. Next month will see krav maga arrive in the north-east with two five-hour courses in the discipline being taught at Aberdeen University's Butchart Recreation Centre on December 2 and 3. Although both sessions are fully booked, there are plans to stage more in the city.