Frequently Asked Questions
What is Krav Maga?
Krav Maga is the hand-to-hand combat system of the Israel Defense Forces and the Israel National Police. It is also taught to various Military, Law Enforcement, and Security agencies in Israel and around the world. Krav Maga is based on simple principles and instinctive movements. It is designed to teach effective self defense in the shortest time possible. Krav Maga is one of the few systems in the world that has been tested on the battlefield and in the streets.
Is Krav Maga really different than other martial arts systems?
The answer is yes! Very much so! Krav Maga is not a sport based martial arts system. Krav Maga is a self-defense system built from real world experience that has been combat tested in the Middle East and around the world. Krav Maga integrates unarmed and armed combatives from many different sources enabling a person to adapt to a variety of self-defense situations. These elements ensure that everything you learn is real and effective!
How do I get started in Krav Maga?
First, you need to see if it is for you. We make this easy. We give you one week of free training. This gives you a chance to check us out and meet our instructors. You can take (or watch) any class you want. This makes it easy to decide if this is really for you. Most people like it so much, they decide they want to do it after their very first class. Take an hour out of your life and come in to try some free training. Put yourself in a position to make an informed decision.
Do I have to buy special equipment or clothes?
We do require that you purchase the standard amount of equipment, which consists of a Krav Works uniform, and hand wraps or training gloves.
Can we take classes as a couple?
Why not? What better way to ensure that your better half is as prepared to face an attacker as you are? As an added bonus you are always guaranteed a workout and training partner.
Will I lose weight taking Krav Maga?
No question about it! Losing weight is definitely a side-benefit of Krav Maga. Classes always include warm-up exercises and a workout. Kick boxing and Boxing skills, which figures prominently in Krav Maga, provides an incredibly efficient way to lose weight.
How can I fit Krav Maga into my lifestyle?
If your schedule will not allow you to regularly attend group classes, then we recommend you sign up for private lessons at your convenience.
How long will it take for me to become proficient?
Krav Maga, unlike many other martial arts, is a very fast-progressing system. Part of its design was driven by the need to train people very quickly and very efficiently. Consequently, it typically takes a person of average physical ability perhaps only several months before significant progress is achieved and noticeable. The testing schedule is held every three months giving students the opportunity to advance in rank.
Is there a belt system in Krav Maga like other martial arts?
Krav Maga does have a color belt system from white to black belt. Each belt level carries with it various techniques that must be performed in a testing environment. One may or may not desire to even test for a belt. There are no such obligations at Krav Works. The belt ranking and progression system is as follows: Fundamentals Class (Beginners) Level One (White and Yellow Belt Curriculum) Level Two (Orange Belt Curriculum) Level Three (Green Belt Curriculum) Level Four (Blue, Brown, and Black Belt Curriculum)
I'm a small person, what good is Krav Maga to me?
Krav Maga was designed to benefit the average person as well as the elite soldier. The system is not about sheer strength or power. As a matter of fact one of the basic tenets of Krav Maga is that one should not oppose power with power. Rather, Krav Maga blends a combination of physical skills with mental self determination. Consequently, Krav Maga is accessible to more people, regardless of gender, shape, or size than many other martial art forms.
Does the Krav Maga curriculum incorporate grappling?
Yes, Krav Maga incorporates extensive grappling into the curriculum, tailored to the philosophy of quickly disabling or neutralizing an opponent. In other words, a Krav Maga practitioner does not necessarily intend for a "submission" or "tap out" from an opponent as is common in sport fighting. The aim is to execute a joint dislocation or worse to end the confrontation.
