We are the only Krav Maga school in the Tampa Bay area to have the honor to be affiliated with the United States Krav Maga Association (USKMA). Our network of instructors have a diverse background in various martial arts and maintain the most up to date curriculum. We believe in training for real life scenarios using stress drills and bringing our own experiences to the table, while maintaining a safe and friendly community.
Krav Maga can be learned by anyone and used effectively by everyone! Its key focus is the use of fast and effective techniques, based on realism, practicality, and ease of use. Since it is very unique from other fighting systems, it teaches the user the mentality to survive when a threat is unavoidable overlooking technique for speed, aggression, and raw violence.
The literal translation means "contact combat". It is not necessarily about fighting, but it is meant to end fights. The system makes use of techniques that are illegal in other systems and styles, such as kicking to groin, eye gouges, and striking to the back of the head. In fact, many see groin strikes as central in Krav Maga. Another central tenet of Krav Maga is the ease of application. Techniques must be easy to learn and execute under stress. Basically, you don't have to be athletic to defend yourself, but, as an added bonus, Krav will help you get into shape. Finally, Krav Maga is not a martial art - it is the anti-martial art. It is learning the most efficient way to smash through an obstacle and make it home safe to your loved ones.
Why should someone choose to train in this self defense system?
Victims are chosen for their perceived disadvantages. Krav Maga trains so that the fight is never fair - to the attacker. It is stacking the odds in favor of those with a perceived disadvantage.
How hard is it? Can I get hurt?
This is definitely going to be harder than yoga, however each student can progress at their own pace. Safety is the ultimate goal of the class because you can't train if you're hurt and we can't teach if no one is training - or if we're hurt. We try to replicate real life situations as best as we can by practicing punching, kicking, and other strikes on pads; as well as practicing choke grabs, hair pulls, grappling and other escapes with partners.
Will it help me lose weight?
As stated before, fitness is a side effect of Krav Maga! Through practice and repetition of these habit-forming techniques you will be able to gain cardio, and learn life saving techniques.
What if I have no prior fighting experience?
You don't need any martial arts experience to start training in Krav Maga. What you will need is water, an open mind, and perseverance!