British Krav Maga Beginners F.A.Q
What Is Krav Maga? Origins and Self-Defence Explained
Krav Maga is a method of hand to hand combat originating in the Israeli Military. Developed by Imi Sde Or in 1948, Krav Maga was originally developed as the Israeli Defence Forces needed a fast, effective programme of Close Quarter Combat skills suitable for urban warfare. Krav Maga is now the largest Reality Based Self Defence system in the world and is still taught to thousands of military and police units and to millions of civilians worldwide.
What will I learn?
The British Krav Maga curricula covers athletic performance training, striking, grappling, weapons defences and a specialist Krav Maga Fight Programme for those interested in sparring. Krav Maga offers incredibly varied and versatile training whether you are interested in a realistic self protection system, an exciting athletic performance programme or a recreational combat sport programme, BKMA Krav Maga has something for you.
How are Instructors trained
British Krav Maga trains professional instructors. We do not offer short instructor courses and have strict entry requirements and strict assessment criteria against a national curricula.
Instructors come from a wide range of backgrounds including Military, Police and experienced martial arts instructors. British Krav Maga Instructors are expected to be able to demonstrate techniques with correct form at full speed whilst under physical duress. Your Instructor will have demonstrated their ability as both a practitioner, and their ability to coach individuals and instruct classes. British Krav Maga has arguably highest standard of training in the Industry and is the only UK organisation to have been funded by the Ministry of Defence for training.
I am unfit, older or have an injury ?
Krav Maga is a contact sport and sessions can be physically demanding. However beginners are encouraged to train at their own level and increase intensity as they progress. Around 80% of those joining us say the do so to improve their fitness and self confidence.
New Kravists can train with relatively simple adjustments in the intensity and recovery. We see 50+ year old Kravists who are fitter and stronger than new students in their 30’s. We have had members in their 70’s training in class with younger Kravists with relatively modest adjustments needed in their training. We can work around most injuries/disability as long as you are safe to train in a dynamic environment – Krav Maga has something to offer you.
Feel free to contact your local Instructor if you have concerns at all.
How long before I am competent in Krav Maga?
The answer to this is highly individual and depends on numerous personal variables. Frequency of and commitment are more significant than fitness, natural ability or previous experience. In our 2014/18 surveys 87% of respondents reported feeling fitter, stronger and more confident in potentially risk situations.
Most British Krav Maga schools offer a 16 week programme (Fast Start) programme several times a year. This is designed to accelerate your performance in the most efficient manner. Generally, Fast Start is aimed at novice students to enable them to learn the basics in the most efficient manner.
Does it cost a lot?
British Krav Maga clubs offer trial sessions once or twice a week. We charge for these as first sessions typically require additional time and support for new students.
If you decide to take up Krav Maga you will usually pay between £40-£60 a month for regular lessons depending on location. Expect to pay more for city centre locations and less for rural classes.
We not tie students into contracts, you simply cancel your membership should you wish to finish training.
There is a Club membership fee of £45 which includes uniform and BKMA membership.
Many BKMA clubs offer special rates for students, First responders and full time Military or Police personnel.
Is the kit expensive?
As you progress, a gum shield, gloves, groin, & shin protection are recommended. These can often be obtained from your Instructor at preferential rates. Comprehensive protective equipment and be purchased for more advanced students for less than £150. So Krav Maga is not an expensive activity.
What about Krav Maga and politics
We are a British sporting organisation teaching Krav Maga. We have no affiliations to Israel and no political agenda. We are an ethical, inclusive organisation teaching people from all races and ethnicities.
How do I get started?
There are two ways to get involved in Krav Maga.
Attend any of the BKMA seminars or Bootcamps run at locations across the UK. This will give you a great immersive experience of training. Alternatively book a trial lesson at a BKMA club near you.
