Categories / Martial arts & combat
Krav Maga
Practical self-defence system.
How to start
Join a beginner class focused on practical self-defence: strikes, escapes and defence drills in a controlled environment.
How to progress
Train weekly or twice weekly.
What the evidence says
Evidence: limited
We found no trials of this particular sport. The general physical activity evidence applies.
Take care: Fast contact drills. Wear protective gear, tell the instructor about injuries.
Sources
12-week starter plan
A class once a week.
Tick each week as you finish it; your ticks are saved on this device only. Repeat a week if it felt hard. Weeks 4, 8 and 12 hold steady so you can settle. This is a general plan, not medical advice.
Add reminders to your calendar
Pick your days and time. You will download a calendar file that adds 12 weeks of reminders to Google, Apple or Outlook calendar.
Calories and weekly minutes
Enter your details for a rough estimate. Based on about 8 METs (Typical effort for this activity (estimated)). Real figures vary by 20% or more between people.
Tips and common mistakes
Tips
- Wear protective gear.
- Stay calm.
- Practise basics.
Common mistakes
- Skipping warm-up.
- Going too hard.
- Ignoring technique.
Kit and cost
Moderate Approximate UK prices.
- Gloves and groin guard (about £30 to £70)
- Club fees
- A mouthguard
Frequently asked questions
Is it for self-defence?
It is designed for practical self-defence.
Do I need to be fit?
No.
Is it safe?
With a good instructor and protection.
Good for: Skill Weight loss Heart & fitness
Compare with similar options
| Krav Maga | Kickboxing | Boxing Fitness | Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical session | 60 min × 2/wk | 60 min × 3/wk | 50 min × 3/wk | 75 min × 3/wk |
| Effort | ●●●●○ | ●●●●○ | ●●●●○ | ●●●●○ |
| Cost | Moderate cost | Low cost | Low cost | Moderate cost |
| Equipment | Basic kit | Basic kit | Basic kit | Basic kit |
| Impact | Medium impact | Medium impact | Medium impact | Medium impact |
| Fitness needed | Some fitness | Some fitness | Some fitness | Moderate fitness |
| Evidence | limited | limited | limited | limited |