What is Krav Maga?
Krav Maga is the official self-defense and fighting system of the Israeli Defense Forces and U.S. law enforcement agencies. This wholly unique and original method was developed and refined during years of conflict. Krav Maga emphasizes easy-to-learn techniques that have been battle-tested in real, life threatening confrontations.
What does Krav Maga mean?
The literal translation from Hebrew to English is “contact combat” or “close combat.”
Where did Krav Maga come from?
Krav Maga Self-Defense system was started in the late 1930s in Bratislava, Czechoslovakia by a young man named Imi Lichtenfeld. Prior to World War II, Imi was fortunate enough to escape from Eastern Europe. He arrived in the Middle East and began fighting for the independence of Israel. Imi was handpicked by the government to create a practical, highly effective self defense and hand-to-hand combat system for the military. Keenly aware of the differences between sports competition and street survival, he developed the Krav Maga System, which was initially taught only to the Israeli Defense Forces, National Police, and Secret Service. Because of its incredible effectiveness, Krav Maga has since spread to the civilian population and is now taught throughout Europe, Scandinavia, and the United States.
What if I have no martial arts experience?
You don’t need any martial arts experience to start training with Badger Krav Maga. New students join us on a daily basis. The Instructors and fellow students are accustomed and welcoming to all new students and eager to help you throughout the course of your training.
Do I need to be in shape to start training?
No. In fact, taking classes is the best way to get into shape. Our class format is created to allow students of different fitness levels to fully participate to the best of each individual’s ability. We have everything from moms that have recently given birth to seasoned SWAT Officers, each leaving equally exhausted, having been pushed to their respective limits every training session. Because we use natural movements and a combination of aerobic and anaerobic training the human body responds to consistent training by creating strong lean muscle and eliminating excess weight.
What if I have previous training in a different martial art?
Great! Your skills in any other martial arts or athletic training, along with an open mind will allow you to pick up on Krav Maga even easier.
What if i have a disability?
Our goal is to make every individual safer, regardless of their circumstances or abilities. We have trained people of all ranges of cognitive or physical abilities. Our instructors are all trained to modify the techniques and drills to every person’s ability level.
what if i have an injury?
As an adult program, we are able to accommodate de-conditioned men and women. Many of our trainees come in with bad knees, backs, necks, etc., or other previous injuries. The need for self-defense is equally, if not more, important for you. We welcome the opportunity to show you how much you can still accomplish in terms of physical fitness and self-defense.
What if I have a pre-existing condition, can I still participate?
Absolutely! Krav Maga is about knowing how to protect yourself no matter what limitations you have. If you do have a pre-existing condition, injury or any other health related concerns notify an instructor immediately so we can modify drills for you. If at any time during class you feel light headed or nausea please notify an instructor.
cleanliness
Learning self-defense requires close contact with other people. With that in mind, please be aware of your own personal hygiene. Deodorant and clean clothes are necessary and are very much appreciated by your classmates and Instructors. If you are taking classes back-to-back, having a fresh change of clothes, especially a clean, dry t-shirt is strongly encouraged.
What classes do you offer?
Krav Maga, Women's Empowerment Seminar, Corporate Wellness, Protective Pepper Spray, and Law Enforcement Krav Maga (Law Enforcement/ Private Security) to name a few. For detailed descriptions of each class as well as time and location information please see the services page of our website.
Do you offer a child/youth class?
We do not offer a children's Krav Maga program presently. However, youth 15 years or older can attend. We are looking forward to adding our Krav Maga kid’s program in the future - stay tuned!
Do you offer discounts?
Yes, we do! We offer various corporate, government, military & first responder discounts. Simply inquire with your work email and we will get you all taken care of!
Do you really offer a free class?
Yes! Sign up today and we will help you set up your free no strings trial class!
What should I wear to class?
We get asked this a lot. The simple answer is athletic clothes; t-shirt, shorts and sneakers. However, students may have individual circumstances to wear articles of clothing to suit their situation. Our classes are demanding and require a lot of movement. Students need to wear clothes that are supportive, durable, and provide adequate coverage while moving in standing, kneeling, seated, prone or supine positions.
What equipment do I need to start Krav Maga?
Unless otherwise notified these are the standard items you will need to participate in our self-defense and fitness classes: • AN OPEN MIND • Comfortable clothes • Mouth guard • A towel • Water bottle • Groin protection (men)
what are my rights as a badger Krav Maga student?
You have the right to speak up for yourself! You have the right to sit out of any part of class you aren’t comfortable with. This could be for any reason, including an injury, fatigue, emotional discomfort, or simply a feeling. You don’t need to explain yourself. A simple “I need a break,” is sufficient for the Instructors here. You have the right to change training partners. If at any time you find yourself in a Badger Krav Maga class and you don’t feel safe, please tell the Instructor and we will take care of it immediately.
