Choosing a Good Krav Maga School
Be warned that as Krav Maga gains in popularity there will be more and more unqualified people claiming to teach authentic Krav Maga. There is a big growth in 2 or 3 day instructor courses, churning out instructors that have no experience or proven training background in Krav Maga. Some Krav Maga instructors are completing close protection courses and teaching close protection drills without having any experience or very little experience. They may have a SIA Close Protection Badge but it still done mean they have any Experience Typically, these instructors will already run martial arts or Self Defence schools and are seeking to add certain security drills to their programme in order to make extra money.
You cannot expect good or even real Krav Maga training from instructors and schools like these. Ask the instructor about his or her creditability and their certification/ Licence. There should be a clear line back to the source of Krav Maga. A credible instructor has years of training experience as well as an 14-24 day instructor qualification process that demanded over 150 hours of tough, Krav Maga training, before they were awarded their certificates.
You wouldn’t learn to swim from someone who had never been in the water. Would you?
What to expect
Your first Krav Maga lesson is free. Each session is 90 minutes long consisting of a warm up, physical fitness exercises and self defence techniques (Krav Maga). When you arrive at Krav Maga Oxford, Reading and Swindon, your instructor will meet you before the lesson starts. We’ll introduce ourselves and have a chat about safety, your training goals, and any injuries or concerns you may have. You don’t need any previous experience; we all had to start somewhere. There is a great community spirit and positive attitude at each session in a rewarding training environment. You’ll fit right in and enjoy yourself, while learning some real self protection skills from a well qualified instructor with plenty of experience in other fields. It’s something you need to see for yourself – there’s nothing quite like it.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I start?
Complete the ‘start today’ form on your right, or send us an email. We’d love to hear from you. We are happy to answer any questions you may have.
Am I too old?
Krav Maga is for everyone. Unless you have a serious health issue, there is no reason you can’t train into your sixties or seventies. Ease off on the intensity, take a break as you need it – the fitness will come.
Do I need to be fit?
No. Krav Maga is a great route to fitness for anyone. Krav is more fun than gyms or fitness classes and the group ethos makes it far easier to get and stay motivated. You’ll notice a difference in as little as 3 weeks. In 12 weeks you will wish you had started years ago.
Will I need any training kit?
Yes you will need to wear and use training kit. Speak to your instructor as some kit is optional
Will I get hurt?
No. We are professional instructors, safety is always the priority. Statistically, Krav Maga is safer than football, rugby or hockey. Whilst any training carries a level of risk, the likelihood of serious injury is low. You will use and wear protective equipment when required
How long before I can defend myself?
This depends on the threat. For the average person training twice a week, we would expect effective skills to deal with common situations after 8-10 weeks.
How often should I attend?
We recommend a minimum of once a week. Most students attend twice a week. But the choice is yours.
Once I become a full Member can I train in Oxford, Reading and Swindon Locations. Yes you can train at the other Locations for Free of Charge
Are there belts and gradings?
There is a Level belt system from 1 to 6 in the South West Krav Maga for students and instructors, however no one is expected to wear them in the sessions and gradings. Students can grade if they choose, also if they are invited to grade by their instructor but this is regulated by to ensure quality standards.
Are there competitions?
No. There are no competitive events in Krav Maga. Most competitive events in the martial arts encourage behaviours and practices that are not conducive to real world survival. For example, roughly 80% of all violent encounters see the victim outnumbered at least two to one or being attacked from behind in a cowardly way, while most competitions are contested one on one. The job of a Krav Maga instructor is to teach you to survive on the street, in an aggressive environment, not to take home trophies and medals.
Do I get discount on seminars and events?
Yes all South West Krav Maga Members get Discount on Seminars in Swindon, Oxford and Reading Taught by Kennie Gould, there may also be an early bird discount payment option.
Do I need to sign a contract?
No there is No Contract. Remember your first session is free and is a great opportunity to try Krav Maga out before you make a decision.
How do I cancel my membership?
You give at least one months notice in writing either email or text or email to the instructor. The instructor can cancel your membership for you; you will be notified that your membership has been cancelled.
What Now?
If you want to try Krav Maga for yourself, fill in the contact us form and submit it. Most schools offer free beginner sessions designed to invite you into the Krav Maga world and meet some people who practice it.
Krav Maga can be a life changing journey. As an instructor, I’ve had the privilege of training with and teaching hundreds of inspirational and dedicated people, many of whom have become great friends. I’ve seen people totally change their body and mental shape through the forging of tough training.