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Krav Maga self defense training system

What Should I Expect On My First Day Of Learning Krav Maga?

Krav Maga has been around since the 1930s. But, it has become trendy over the last few years due to its incredible efficiency!

However, the first day of learning Krav Maga can seem pretty intimidating.

Fortunately, you are not alone on this journey. Just like you, there are many others out there. They have been in the same situation and have experienced the feeling of unease and adrenaline shooting through their veins.

So, let’s go over what you can expect on your first day of training this fantastic martial art. In this way, you will be ready when you finally step into the class!

What Is Krav Maga?

This is krav maga combat

Krav Maga is a form of self-defense. So, in essence, it’s a bit different than the typical martial arts. 

After all, it doesn’t revolve around closed fist punches or a multitude of kicks. Instead, this practice focuses more on protecting the user and delivering devastating counterattacks.

In addition, we can trace its origin back to the 1930s. During WWII, Imi Litchenfield, the inventor of krav maga, was trying to find a way to save himself and his fellow men from fascist violence. 

But, the majority of the martial arts required intense practice, patience, and skill before they became effective. So, they weren’t very practical for the common people.

With this in mind, Imi studied various martial arts including, boxing, judo, aikido, wrestling, and karate. Afterward, he developed a method of defense that does not require ceremonial moves or years of bone-breaking practice. 

This efficient method of defense was the beginning of krav maga!

Later on, in the 1940s, the Israeli army adopted this martial arts and took it to a new level. Although the original krav maga was simply for defending the people, the evolved version became a terrifying technique that left victims wishing they never tasted the water.

Nevertheless, the purpose of krav maga isn’t to train warriors. It’s for the people to defend themselves in real-world situations.

Where Do You Usually Learn Krav Maga?

Typically, you can learn krav maga safely in a training center. Moreover, experienced instructors with a fully functional set of equipment will greatly assist you when learning the ropes.

Aside from the usual way, you can also learn this method at home or from skilled trainers, online courses, blogs.

Let’s take an in-depth look,

Learninig in a Krav Maga training center

israeli army training krav maga lessonsHigh-quality resources, safety gear, experienced instructors, and numerous sparring partners make a krav maga training center the best place for learning this martial art.

Furthermore, a beginner needs to learn many little tidbits of information to avoid accidental injuries when starting. Then, in a training center, you will have enough help and advice to make corrections independently. 

Plus, even if you miss some crucial aspects, your seasoned trainers can quickly point them out! 

This way, you won’t learn unnecessary moves and eliminate the chance of developing error-filled muscle memories.

Additionally, here, you will have access to several types of equipment that will hasten your progress. For instance, you can practice palm strikes on advanced padded dummies, boards instead of hitting the solid concrete.

There are also sparring matches that will give you a taste of combat and the rush of adrenalin to prepare you for future emergencies.

After all, krav maga, like most martial arts, improves with time and practice. The more experience you have, the less likely you are to freeze up in the face of an armed opponent.

Therefore, if you have the opportunity and ability, the krav maga training center will offer you the best environment for learning and practicing this martial art.

Learning Krav Maga at home

With the emergence of modern technology, the world is now at your fingertips. Thus, now, it’s entirely possible to learn krav maga from the comfort of your home if you so wish!

As long as you have access to the internet, you are just a few clicks away from a wealth of training resources. 

For instance, a blog or instructional video can quickly teach you to escape a bear hug or do a simple choke. But, you will need to be careful when practicing these at home without proper supervision.

Plus, you may need to cross-check the information you get to see if it’s suitable for you.

However, there is an effective solution to this problem. That is to seek out an experienced instructor. 

This way, if you can get a professional trainer, you will have less to worry about when learning stances and consecutive moves, even at home!

What Clothes Should I Wear For My First Krav Maga Lesson?

Best clothes for israeli self defense martial artsTraining krav maga requires a lot of movements. So, you will want to wear something lightweight, comfortable. 

It would be even better if the clothing did not restrict your activities too much.

Nevertheless, it can get pretty confusing if you wonder what to wear in your first krav maga class. You won’t need to worry much, most training institutes will allow you to choose your clothes, but some may have specific gears and uniforms.

In which case, you will need to follow their rules and regulations when picking your clothes.

On the other hand, if you are training at home or in a center that lets you wear what you choose, you can follow your common sense.

So, we can view the best clothes for krav maga.

Best top for Krav Maga training

When learning krav maga, you will be moving a lot. Thus, the body will generate quite a bit of heat. So, a light T-shirt may be the best top you can pick for the session. 

Additionally, you don’t need elaborate martial arts dresses or complex button-up shirts for this training.

Comfortable trouser are a must when learning Krav Maga

For trousers, the soft, stretching sportswear would fit the bill perfectly. If not, you can wear any trousers or leggings for the women.

However, it would be better if the trousers were not overly long or too short. Longer trousers may tangle up and trip you, while the shorter ones will leave you unprotected against scrapes and frictions from the training mats.

Lightweight shoes that offer comfort and protection

After you have your top and trouser, you will need to pick footwear. Here, you want the one that will let you be agile on the ground while protecting your foot. So, lightweight sports shoes will be most suitable. 

Moreover, these shoes will not damage your equipment or weigh you down, which is a definite plus! 

You can, however, do this training barefooted if necessary.

Aside from these, you can wear protective gear if they are available. For instance, mouth, shin, and groin guards will go a long way to keep you safe.

Last but not least, you should not wear any form of jewelry when training this martial art. These accessories can accidentally injure you or your sparring partner. Moreover, there is a risk of the tiny pieces getting lost or broken while moving rapidly.

As such, remember to take off your rings, watches, bracelets, necklaces, and earrings before setting foot in the class.

Am I Going To Get Hurt On My Frst Day Of Krav Maga Training?

learning israeli hand to hand combat training

Krav Maga emphasizes defensive techniques, so the likelihood of you getting hurt on your first class is pretty low.

Nonetheless, it’s a martial arts class. Thus, naturally, you need to prepare for situations where someone makes an accidental parry, or you may end up with a bruise.

Usually, the first class is all about stance, basics, and introductions. Here, no one will expect you to move like a martial arts pro. Still, it’s better to pay close attention to your instructor and fine-tune your reflexes before trying out something new.

Moreover, some rookie mistakes can also end up hurting you. For instance, using a fist to punch the practice dummy in the face is common for beginners. The general concept is that hitting the head will deliver more damage to your opponent, but it can be potentially dangerous.

After all, punching the facial bones with a fist can feel worse than hitting a concrete wall. In contrast, if you are patient, you will learn the amazing palm strike that will leave your opposition in a daze without breaking the bones of your fingers.

Even then, some intensive sessions like the 360 defense training will still give you some mild injuries. Fortunately, this training will come after you have built up a strong foundation.

So, as long as you properly gauge your skill level and sign up for the right class, you will be fine on your first day learning krav maga.

Do I Need To Be Fit To Start Learning Krav Maga Self Defense?

There is no fixed fitness standard for starting krav maga training. After all, it’s a defensive art suitable for people that do not have any formal martial experience.

Therefore, every student may start at their own pace, and as time passes, their fitness level will improve. As such, this versatility is one of the best aspects of learning krav maga!

However, possessing a fit body is going to be very helpful. With it, you will have an easier time grasping the moves and have enough agility to perfect your counters. Moreover, it will keep you confident and make your strikes more powerful.

staying fit with israeli army self defence training

Still, even if you aren’t very fit, krav maga is flexible and efficient enough to give you the means to defend yourself. Plus, if you train it regularly, you will soon start to enjoy a more healthy life!

How Many People Are Usually In A Krav Maga

Class?

Depending on the type, there can be a different number of people in a krav maga class. But, usually, in a level 1 class, there are 15-20 people.

Based on the assumption that it takes about four months to graduate from level 1 to level 2, the beginner classes can have many more students. Or, if the institute, training center is for professionals, you will see much less traffic.

All in all, there is no set limit for the number of people there can be in a krav maga class. 

But, if you are uncomfortable with too many students, you can also apply for training sessions to learn from personal instructors.

Are Krav Maga Classes Typically Mixed With Men And Women?

Usually, krav maga classes are for everyone, and it’s free from prejudice. Thus, it treats each student equally. 

However, there are no hard and fast rules that this martial art is only for men or women. So, typically, it has mixed classes. But, there are also separate classes for men and women in some cases.

The core advantage of an inclusive class is about teaching everyone how to defend themselves regardless of gender identity, age, or height difference.

On the other hand, the separate classes are held to respect some cultural values and traditions present in various parts of the world. But, the core of the art remains the same. This way, you won’t be losing out no matter where you wish to train.

Do I Need Any Prior Experience In Self-Defense Before My First Krav Maga Trainig Class?

The main purpose of krav maga was to protect the civilians, ordinary people from the armed aggressors. Unfortunately, these people did not have any polished combat prowess or experience. Yet still, they were able to defend themselves with krav maga effectively.

As such, you won’t need any prior experience in self-defense to start learning this martial art!

Nevertheless, it’s a mix of several martial arts. So, you will be passively learning some jiu-jitsu, Brazilian mixed martial arts, and Muay Thai. Any experience you have with these arts will assist in your learning process.

similar martial arts like krav maga

But, even if you haven’t practiced any form of martial arts or received formal military training, you will be able to learn krav maga efficiently with some patience and practice!

A Few Tips & Tricks To Enhance Your First-Day Experience Of Learning Krav Maga

Krav maga is not magic. It’s a self-defense technique that everybody can master. However, taking the first step can be pretty challenging due to the stories of horrifying injuries and insanely complex moves regarding this martial art.

Therefore, to enhance your first-day experience of learning krav maga, you need:

To build up confidence. After all, a nervous brain is bound to make mistakes!

After you have prepared your mind, it’s time to focus on the body. Always remember to do light cardio and warmups before you start the main training. This way, you won’t have to suffer muscle pains.

Moreover, the cardio will get your heart pumping and deliver more oxygen throughout your body.

With the extra oxygen, your movements will become smoother and faster while also letting you focus better!

Bottom Line

Krav maga is a fantastic martial art that challenges your body in new ways. Plus, it gives you the skills needed to stay safe. 

Still, starting the training process takes courage as it’s known for its devastating power. However, once you have set foot inside and gone through your first day, you will be amazed at the simplicity and efficiency it offers.

But don’t just take our word for it. Instead, sign up today and give it a try yourself!