Do I need any previous martial arts experience to do Krav Maga?
No. Krav Maga is designed to be easy to learn. While previous martial arts experience is helpful it is not necessary. You are encouraged to learn at your own pace.
Can my kids take Krav Maga?
Classes at Krav Maga-Milwaukee are intended for adults ages 18 years and older. However, children between the ages of 14 and 18 will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Do I have to buy special equipment and clothes?
Unlike other martial arts forms, there is no imposed uniform for Krav Maga. Sweats and a simple t-shirt are typically sufficient. Wrist wraps are suggested and can be purchased at our pro-shop. We do require that you bring body protection (groin protection for men) and clean soled, non-marking gym shoes to each class.
How long will it take me to become proficient at Krav Maga?
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.
I want to spar, is that available?
Yes. Students are required to pass the Level I test before they are eligible to spar. Protective equipment is required (gloves, shin guards, mouthpiece, and head protection) and can be purchased at our pro-shop. Students are encouraged to progress at their own pace and safety is the primary concern.
I'm a small person with little strength, what good is Krav Maga to me?
Krav Maga was designed to benefit the average person. 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 skill with mental self-defense determination. Consequently, Krav Maga is more accessible to people of either gender, regardless of body shape or size than many other martial art forms.
Is there a national competition and a belt system for Krav Maga like karate?
Krav Maga does have a color belt system of advancement. However, there are no specific competition events for Krav Maga like there is for other martial arts. Similarly, there are no katas in Krav Maga. 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 in Krav Maga.
My schedule is unpredictable, how can I fit Krav Maga into my lifestyle?
We recommend 2 classes per week. However if your schedule is unpredictable, we also offer a "training block" format that allows you to purchase only the time you use. We also offer private classes by appointment.
What does the Krav Maga logo mean?
The Krav Maga logo, or "Kouf Mem" consists of the letters K and M written in Hebrew, artfully combined to form the symbol of Krav Maga. An open circle surrounds the K and M because the system is open to improvement by adding techniques, exercises, and training methods and by eliminating techniques from the system when there is a better approach. Imi Lichtenfeld, the Grand Master and founder of Krav Maga, said of the logo's open circle: "Good things can continue to flow into the system and flawed exercises can flow out."
What is the upper limit for Krav Maga?
There is none. There are people over 70 taking Krav Maga classes nationally. It is always a good idea to check with a doctor before engaging in strenuous physical activity.
Why is Krav Maga suddenly so popular?
Once reserved for special military, police and protection units, it is now accessible to just about any individual of any ability. This is because Krav Maga was designed for the general public as well. Krav Maga has also been more in the public eye due to media exposure, from movies like Enough, Terminator 3, Tomb Raider 2, and Mr. & Mrs. Smith, with celebrities like Jennifer Lopez, Shannon Elizabeth, and Angelina Jolie training. Now more than ever, people want to feel safe and Krav Maga is one of the most efficient ways to protect yourself and your loved ones.
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 and a workout. Combatives like punches, kicks, knees, and elbows, which figures prominently in Krav Maga, is also an incredibly efficient way to lose weight very quickly.
What time are classes held?
Please refer to the class schedule. Additional class slots may be added as enrollment dictates.
