Since 2020, Monaco has had its own internationally recognised martial art: Pàijeda.
Following in the footsteps of the United States, which launched Kickboxing, Full Contact and MMA, and of Israel, which introduced Krav-Maga, in 2020 Monaco also created a new martial art: Pàijeda.
Meaning ‘Peace’ in the Monegasque language (‘Paije’) and ‘Defence Art’ (DA), this discipline was created by Monegasque Claude Pouget, world Krav-Maga champion. This 100% Monegasque martial art, supported by the Monegasque Olympic Committee and an official partner of the NGO Peace and Sport, can be practised as an unarmed art of defence (defence arts), as a hobby or professionally. It enables you to deal with different types of threats or attacks using simple, selected martial arts and self-defence techniques, suitable for a wide range of people, from youngsters to senior citizens. As a combat sport, it’s also governed by sporting regulations.
“These two techniques (defence arts or combat sport) help to strengthen the mind, develop strategies, learn and use specific skills and maintain physical fitness, all of which promotes well-being”, says the founder of this discipline, who drew inspiration from around fifteen martial arts or combat sports (including Kickboxing, Self-Defence, Krav Maga and Karate) to design the techniques and moral code of Pàijeda. This type of blended sport also cultivates ethical values (respect, compassion, courage, self-control, etc.), as well as being a tool for promoting the Monegasque language, of which around fifty words have been incorporated. Pàijeda diplomas are awarded in Monegasque, French, and English.
Pàijeda, which has its own federation, was inducted into the Hall of Fame during the 20th Gala evening in Valencia (Spain). The teaching incorporates fist and footwork boxing techniques, which are used in a wide range of fighting and defence arts, and “the skills acquired can also be used to obtain official grades in Kickboxing and Krav Maga”, says Claude Pouget, who teaches these disciplines at the International Martial Arts Academy in Monaco.
To find out more, visit : https://www.federation-paijeda.mc
