In my classes safety comes first. Krav Maga prepares you for real situations, but that does not mean training has to be dangerous: you can practise effectively and progress fast while keeping the risk of injury to a minimum. For that, there are a few things all of us have to stick to.
Warm-up and cool-down
Every class starts with a thorough warm-up and ends with stretching and a cool-down. During the warm-up we get the circulation going, mobilize the joints and prepare the muscles for the load; this is the basis of injury prevention.
Gradual progress
We learn every technique slowly, step by step, and only raise the pace and intensity once the movement is solid. As a beginner you work with the group, but you get tasks that match your own level. If a drill is beyond you or you do not understand it, say so before you start: you can ask for a rest, an easier version or an explanation.
Self-control and your partner
In class we teach each other, we do not fight against each other. You always adjust the intensity to your partner and to my instructions; full power only when I explicitly ask for it. If your partner signals (taps, claps, speaks up), stop at once. Look after your partner's safety: anyone who causes an injury through carelessness or on purpose can be excluded from training.
Protective gear
Protective gear protects your own body, so use it:
- Put on your groin guard at the start of class; it is strongly recommended for partner drills.
- Wear your mouthguard after the warm-up, in every drill with punches and kicks.
- Wear gloves and shin guards when I tell you in advance that the drill needs them.
The gym provides the shields and focus mitts; everyone brings their own mouthguard, groin guard and gloves for hygiene reasons. Show me new gear so I can check that it is safe. I wrote about what is worth buying in the equipment article.
Training weapons
We also practise defenses against knife, stick and firearm attacks, but only with the gym's training weapons: rubber knife, soft stick, rubber gun. Real knives, weapons, pepper spray or any sharp or pointed object are not allowed in the gym or the changing rooms. Training weapons too are used only under the instructor's supervision, for the drill at hand.
Jewellery, clothing, nails
Before class take off your jewellery, watch and piercings; tape over what you cannot remove. They tear easily and can injure someone if they catch on your partner. Do not wear clothes with belt buckles, zips or hard decorations. Keep your fingernails and toenails short, and tie back long hair.
Health and injuries
Only come to class healthy and rested. If you have an injury, a physical problem or any other condition we should look out for, tell me before class; we adapt the drills to it. If you get hurt or feel unwell during class, say so at once, even if it seems minor. There is a first-aid kit in the gym, and we always take injuries seriously.
The instructor's instructions
I decide about the drills, the pairs and the intensity, so please follow my instructions. If something is not clear, feel free to ask, in English, before you begin.
If you are getting ready for your first class, Your first Krav Maga class tells you what to expect.