Krav Maga San Diego, Inc

I sent the following letter to Krav Maga San Diego after we received an encouraging email regarding my son Will’s training …:
Dana:
We appreciate your encouragement. I am very grateful Will and I can participate in your program.
On the way home last night Will and I were talking about you. We agreed you truly care for each student and want to make sure we are each as prepared as possible for what might be before us.
You have a developed a well balanced program; it is both physically and mentally challenging, the classroom is serious but there is a sense of levity (like on Halloween when Wondergirl was sparing with the Banana), there is variety of special training but also repetition of the basics, you balance the instructor to student ratio well, there is always someone watching, and your fee structure makes it very affordable.
But over and above all of that, what I appreciate most is getting to do it with Will. This is developing his character and mental and physical strength. He is handling it well … he is proud to show his Mom his weekly bruises.
Eddie

I have been training at KMSD for six months as of this writing. I joined because I travel a lot, but also because I’ve wanted to try something like Krav Maga for a long time.
I chose KMSD because they have a track record of professionalism and expertise. They have been teaching Krav Maga for over twenty years, and they’re regularly contracted for training by military and law enforcement organizations. It was clear that providing a superior learning environment is something they take seriously.
What to expect:
The KMSD civilian program teaches self-​defense, not martial arts. Although it draws from several fighting styles, it emphasizes what is practical and what you can learn quickly. You will develop a skillset that works in the real world.
The training intentionally places you in stressful situations, but under controlled conditions along with a great deal of guidance. An important part of the training is to teach you to manage this type of stress.
The instructional style is concise and direct, but in a positive way. It is intended to help you improve.
What stands out about KMSD:
You are almost constantly practicing with or against a classmate, or just as likely, with or against several classmates simultaneously. Furthermore, you’re practicing at a wide variety of physical locations: downtown streets, public parks, in the sand at the beach, or even in the Pacific Ocean. It is physical. And it is a lot of fun.

It’s a great value for the cost of an eight week session, especially when you consider the high quality of instruction.
The instructors and the other students are all really cool people who want you to do well.
What you will gain:
You will learn how to evaluate your environment, how to react appropriately in difficult situations, and most importantly, how to stay safe.

Blog entries like this
will tell you that «Krav Maga is such total bullshit». Krav Maga San Diego, Dana Ben Kaplan’s brand of KM, is everything that this writer says KM isn’t.
«The biggest problem with Krav Maga is that it doesn’t actually train with full speed against fully resisting opponents.» A student learning a new technique should take things slow, but KMSD’s instructors encourage «alive» training. They will call a student out in class if for not being a realistic attacker. It can be a challenge to simulate surprise attacks, knife attacks and full speed strikes to the groin, but KMSD’s instructors strive to simulate a realistic, stressful environment while keeping the students’ safety a priority.
«[KM] may look deadly in theory, but you have no way of testing it if you can’t use it in competition.» Once KMSD students graduate to Level 2/​Intermediate, they are invited to train in the Physical Class. That class begins with an intense workout and continues into various sparring drills with gloves and headgear. It is not «competition» in the sense that winners are determined and awards are given, but students have their limits tested against each other and quickly learn who the best fighters in class are.
«If you spar with multiple people, you already know how hard it is to actually gain an advantage. If they are teaching you how to get the hell out when attacked by more than 1 person, that’s good news. You might be in one of the few legit KM schools in the world.» The KMSD instructors NEVER encourage students to challenge multiple attackers or armed attackers for that matter. The final element of every technique KMSD teaches is «run for safety» or «run for an exit». Defenses against multiple attackers or armed attackers are taught to be used only when escaping is not possible.
«If you can take Krav Maga as an auxiliary to your other martial arts training, you might get something out of it. Most other martial arts leave out all the situational awareness training.» I mostly agree with this. I believe Krav Maga enhances other fighting disciplines and vice-​versa. The KMSD instructors have experience and knowledge outside the KMSD curriculum to draw on. Dana himself trains boxing in his spare time. The KMSD instructors do address the legal issues of fighting and also teach nonviolent techniques.
«If your school is full of soccer moms and promises of turning you into a deadly killing machine, you’re probably in a McDojo.» The KMSD instructors don’t fill their students’ heads with delusions of what the training will allow them to do. In fact, I usually leave class feeling humbled and feeling like my cardio or technique need improving. The instructors do stress the importance of proper technique. «Soccer moms» are welcome train with KMSD and I’m happy to train with them, but if you desire, the BJJ practitioner, the LEO or the 6’6″ guy will happily train with you. [It’s not my intention to bash the writer of this blog. His/​her blog was just the first one of its kind to appear on a Google search.]
See here
to review Dana’s first rate credentials, as well as that of the assistant instructors. They give as much individual attention during classes as possible and won’t hesitate to correct a student if a technique is performed incorrectly. Often, they’ll continue working with that student until the problem is fixed. Classes are challenging, and students will be pushed but are always welcome to work at their own pace. Dana also does business honorably. I once paid my enrollment fees before a session began, only to realize I had work commitments that made enrolling not worth it. Dana happily put my enrollment fees toward a future 8 week session.
Dana rarely misses a class, but when he does, Ben, Steve, Arielle, Carlos, Daniel, and Sean (when he returns from service) do an outstanding job and usually offer a fresh take on training. Some of the assistant instructors have been teaching since I enrolled in 2009, while others I’ve watched develop since the very beginning of their KM training. Each are knowledgeable, bring their own talents to the crew of instructors, and are also friendly. A few other well reviewed KM instructors on Unilocal have trained under KMSD at one point or another.
Personally, training at KMSD makes me comfortable in my own skin. For time I am in class, I focus on self improvement. The current group of students are happy to assist in learning and promote the instructors’ goal of creating a community amongst the students. If there is a better KM school, KMSD has given me zero reasons to look for one.

EXCELLENT TRAINING! Dana and his assistant instuctors do a great job teaching and ensuring you train properly and safely. I highly recommend taking his classes.

I just started my third 8-​week session with Krav Maga San Diego, Inc and absolutely love it! I signed up after attending a women’s self-​defense seminar, which is a 3-​hour class that covers a lot of great techniques.
Classes are held in two convenient locations, in UTC and Downtown San Diego. You may train just in one location or both, so you can attend as many as 5 classes per week! :)
All instructors have been trained with Krav Maga San Diego for many years, so they are highly skilled and super helpful. Dana is a lead instructor who carries the traditions of Krav Maga.
If you are looking for an authentic organization with tough training, this is the place to go!

Joining Krav Maga San Diego was definitely one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Prior to joining KMSD, I thoroughly researched all of the krav maga schools in San Diego county. It did not take me long to realize that no other school in San Diego even begins to rival the level of quality that KMSD offers. Having attended classes here for several months now, I am 100% confident that my initial judgment was correct. I would recommend this institute to everyone (whether they are completely uncoordinated and unfamiliar with martial arts like I was or are rapidly approaching Bruce Lee status). Everyone will walk away having learned something valuable from the very first lesson. If you’re unsure about committing to an entire session, try one of the KMSD seminars! You could also try personal training if you’re hesitant to sign up for group classes right now. Just give it a try; you will be addicted. KMSD offers something for everyone and the instructors (who are definitely world-​class) will go out of their way to make sure you’re comfortable and reaching your goals. You will love it.
Why choose Krav over other martial arts? Well, firstly, based on what Dana Kaplan (the KMSD lead instructor who is absolutely excellent, by the way) teaches, I would describe Krav as more of a set of techniques designed to enhance natural/​instinctive defenses rather than a «martial art». That’s not to say that Krav isn’t beautiful or doesn’t require hard work; like anything worth learning, it requires practice and dedication to perfect. However, because it’s based on instinctive movements, it is easier to grasp and far more rewarding than other alternatives. You will walk out of your very first class feeling more confident and the best part is, you will have actually learned something!
I grew up in Nepal during a period of civil war and witnessed many things that scare me to this day. However, I can honestly say that joining KMSD has gotten me much closer to achieving that «peace of mind» I’ve always craved. I can go on my night runs or hike alone without much fear now; I’ve replaced fear with caution for the most part. :) I am completely certain that no other Krav Maga school could have gotten me to this state of mind so quickly. I look forward to attending KMSD for as long as I possibly can!

KMSD is one or my favorite organizations in San Diego. I started with KMSD as a college student in a sorority. As a female in college, I was acutely aware of the sexual assault statistics. I wanted to find a way to help protect myself and my sisters. I hired Dana Ben Kaplan, lead instructor, to run a 2 hour self defense session with our girls. It was amazing! So practical, easy to pick up, and fun. We all walked away with confidence and improved self awareness.
It has been three years and I’ve stuck with krav. After that 2 hour session, I was hooked. I now help with seminars for women and children, attend demonstrations, and participate in krav related events. I am so proud whenever I get to talk about krav and everything it’s given me. I can’t imagine my life or even my identity really without KMSD.
If you’re looking for a place to practice, I urge you to check out KMSD. If you’re a female and you’re anxious, come to a seminar for a taste. You won’t regret it.

Over the past 4 years I have lived in San Diego, I have trained on and off with Krav Maga San Diego. I always find my way back and really enjoy the program; while training in other programs I just couldn’t find myself focused in them (too much repetition). Although Krav Maga is fun and enjoyable, it is not by any means for the faint of heart; everyone is expected to push themselves, work out hard, and help grow the program. They have knowledgeable instructors who each have their own perspectives on techniques to help one grasp it better and acclimate it into your everyday life. These instructors really care about the program and very happy to work with students to keep them training (not just there for the money). Also, students are called by their first name and not just some thought of as a number for some quota. All students no matter your «rank» or level are there to assist you with noticing errors in their partners during training; helping to instruct each other. I am a very detailed person and enjoy watching my partner learning new techniques just as much if not more than learning new ones myself (noticing errors in others will give you an awareness of errors you may be making). Krav Maga San Diego always keeps you on your toes with no day being like the day before and no session identical to the last. This program changes the way you see life situations and prepares ALL types of people to be confident in self-​defense. No matter who you are, what skill level you have, or your fitness level I truly believe KMSD will push you to your limits and beyond. I have had the opportunity to assist volunteering at women’s self-​defense seminars, teen seminars, and session testings and appreciate everything Krav Maga San Digeo has done to add to my life. I look forward to continuing my training in the future!

I have trained in multiple disciplines before coming to Krav Maga. It took me a while to sign up due to my schedule, but I am so glad that I did. Krav Maga San Diego was mentioned to me by one of the instructors that participated in a military style event held in San Diego. After attending my first session I can say that I will be a long time student at KMSD. Their curriculum is thorough and provides a great base for being proficient in defending oneself.
KMSD had competent instructors that have gone through the ranks and have earned their place in the Krav Maga society. Providing their students with real world scenarios, proper instruction on techniques, and a true passion to make everyone better that attends the classes. I particularly enjoy that the instructors make each person in the class an instructor. This helps raise the level of the students training and allows the students to keep themselves honest.
I cannot say enough good things about KMSD. I hope that if you are looking for a great way to defend yourself and to stay true to Krav Maga that you choose KMSD.
Will

I’ve practiced MMA in the past and although very disciplined and technical Krav Maga offers more realistic training for everyday situations. Krav Maga San Diego has very professional and knowledgable staff that provide realistic training that will make anyone feel safer on the streets.
Krav Maga is the most practical discipline for everyday life and Krav Maga San Diego is the best school to learn.

I have trained both Krav Maga and Brazilian Ju-​Jitsu and hands down Krav Maga is a better form of self defense. Let me rephrase that, KMSD is better. As intent as they are for you to learn the proper form, they care even more. The instructors come early and stay late to answer any questions you may have. They even conduct extra classes in their spare time which are immensely helpful. If you are looking for a work out and to hang out with friends, this is not for you. If you want to learn proper technique with the confidence to defend yourself from the best (Dana) then I highly recommend KMSD.

Full disclosure: I have not trained at any other MMA schools so I can not compare or rate this relative to any other schools. That said, if/​when I go back for more Krav maga training, I will very most likely choose to continue with KMSD. From 1 session, I have the foundation for general fighting skills, as well as defending against chokes, knife threats, and some other similar situations.
Krav Maga San Diego (KMSD) gave me a practical and completely satisfying education in Krav Maga. Although I consider myself athletic, am good at most sports, and lift weights regularly, I’ve never had any MMA training or been in any sort of physical fight. I wanted to develop some practical MMA skills, and was informed that Krav Maga was the way to go. At KMSD, don’t be intimidated if you are a complete beginner or have some skills: the classes are orientated so that everyone is constantly learning and improving, and students are divided into different skill levels. Like I said before, I did not have any skills, and although I struggled at times, I knew that the focus on details taught in this school is so that you are most effective in a real situation. The instructors will constantly move through class and correct your form. I should also mention that I picked this school over others because I had a friend who started here, and I knew he stuck with it for years and eventually became an instructor. He left months ago to pursue joining the Green Berets, and last I heard he was easily handling any training they had him go through.
Pros:
–Good Scheduling: Classes offered 5 times a week for 1 hour. It is encouraged you make 2 – 3 classes, but you are free to do as many as you want.
–Price seems as competitive as any other schools
–During class, the style of teaching is very effective at keeping you disciplined and learning
–The 1 hour session will go by very quickly
–Partners are encouraged to be as real-​life as possible, although safety is a #1 priority (no serious injuries that I witnessed).
–After you are done with a session, you can continue to maintain on your own (if you actually practice) or join for more sessions to move up skills levels and develop more techniques.
–Instruction is very hands-​on, with lots of partner work and repeating movements so that they are easily memorized and corrected.
–Feedback from partners is encouraged.
–Krav Maga is a no-​limits and very street-​practical MMA, unlike other MMA styles that may limit techniques (i.e. choking, hitting face, ground attacks, etc). I’m not even sure if it is actually considered an MMA or if there are competitions, but it is certainly focused on surviving real life scenarios.

I have been training with KMSD for over 2 years now, and can confidently say it is the best school in San Diego (and surrounding areas) to learn self defense via Krav Maga. The instructors are extremely knowledgeable and friendly, bringing lots of real-​life experience to the table (not just a certificate of «master» to waiver in your face). These are the people who truly care about equipping the public with techniques and confidence to defend yourself and those around you, and they show it! The training that they put you through is hard and rigorous to make sure that you learn the techniques soundly, which is for YOUR benefit. This is not a place to have fun (though you will have it) and work out… this is a place to learn how to protect yourself and those around you.

Why not learn from the best! Dana and Imi Lichtenfeld, (the man who invented Krav Maga) had a great relationship in his time shared with the world. Following Imi’s traditions and teachings are of great value when considering a Krav Maga tranning center. If you are looking for a true dedicated instuctor to learn from this is where you should go. I love the discipline and structure to his classes and knowing that ALL the instructors are there for you if you have any questions. In my opinion this is the best place to grow as an individual while also gaining a life skill!

I have been taking classes at Krav Maga San Diego for a year now, and it’s one of the best personal decisions I have made. I’m in my forties, and spend 8 plus hours a day working behind a desk. I’ve never been that athletic, although I’ve always done some sort of sport. I have always been interested in martial arts and fighting systems, but prior to attending classes at KMSD, I had little experience with defense systems, except for some Tae Kwon Do classes that I took many years ago. What really attracted me about Krav Maga San Diego (and Krav Maga in general) is that it is a system for everyone. People who get attacked are not all athletes or able to do all of the complex moves that some systems require. Krav Maga is about efficiency and defense, regardless of age/​body type.
I didn’t know anyone at KMSD when I signed up for classes, so I went in with a pretty open mind. I thought about working out to get in shape for the classes, but when I saw that the website said that you work at your own level, I figured I could do it — just trying the best I could. I mainly was interested in learning something new and cool, and challenging myself, which I have. Of course, I did also want to get a good workout and get in better shape, and I definitely can feel that I have. What I didn’t expect was to feel was to feel the mental challenges in class, and the added stress level (to simulate what you will feel in the real world in an attack), and to walk away feeling so much more confident. The best part is to have honed a skill that I had all along and didn’t know — fighting spirit. The will to keep going is something that will save you in the street, but it’s also a useful philosophy in life. Just keep on going and pushing yourself.
Dana is a great instructor (with over 20 years of experience) and truly cares about his students and making sure they leave the class with the best skill set possible. All of the instructors and assistant instructors are extremely helpful, and everyone wants to make sure you are doing the defenses precisely, since when you are under stress, your best defense techniques will suffer. I was especially impressed at the recent targeted training for gun defenses. The student/​instructor ratio was high, there were lots of muscle exercises related to the defenses, and moves were broken down and gone over in depth, with lots of instructor feedback. So impressed! After an hour and a half, I feel like I’ve really improved in that technique. Hope I never have to use it.
I attend sessions both downtown and at the JCC location and enjoy both. Now I even do some of the level 2 physical classes with gear, which push you — but are amazing! I walk out super exhausted, but proud of myself (especially the day I realized that I could actually carry someone on my back! Who knew?)
Thanks to Dana, the instructors and assistant instructors for making Krav Maga San Diego so great. I highly recommend these classes– you will sweat, push yourself mentally and physically, and hone your fighting spirit.

I decided to train in Krav Maga in the summer of 2005 during break from college. My goal was to get fit while simultaneously learning self defense. During the summer I lost about 40lbs (of course diet helped contribute to this), and felt very confident in the defenses I learned. Needless to say I was hooked, and decided to continue my training at school (in the Midwest).
Now let me tell you that there are other options for Krav Maga, but many of these so called options are primarily gym and MMA classes riding the Krav Maga trend. The classes I signed up for at college (Midwest) required electronic debit, a ‘first and last’ month, and a schedule that allowed for anyone to enter at will (meaning you could potentially be studying the same technique for many classes in a row instead of learning something new). One of the instructors was very good, but most had pretty limited experience and the overall feel seemed to be geared towards monetization and not teaching. It felt like a fly-​by-​night operation, whereas Krav Maga San Diego has been established (now) for over 20 years.
After graduating I was lucky to return to San Diego, and continued practicing Krav Maga with Dana.

I’ll admit that I have anxiety prior to each class. Yeah… we may not be camping, but the classes are THAT «intents» for me! Hah! To make that joke even makes me wonder if I’m taking away from how serious these classes can get.
My sister and I are returning students from a couple years hiatus, and feel that there’s no need to keep this secret from friends and Unilocalers any longer. Yes, we train in Krav Maga! And I think more of my friends should take a class or two. No, not to make the organization money, but because it’s worth your time! Honestly I don’t ever expect to be in many of the situations we train for, but who’s the say it won’t happen? I’d rather be safe than sorry.
Newbie? What to expect:
–Show up to class early, hydrated, and Fresh.
–Don’t be shy, greet other people around you, because most likely you’ll be in close proximity of them in No-​Time! (thus the «Fresh»)
–Take every comment and suggestion with a positive attitude. Everyone wants you to succeed even if you feel discouraged. Plus in real situations you should never give up.
–Pay attention & don’t be the last to find a group when they say «Go!»
–Consider your partners while training. Keep as realistic, but safe as possible. Obviously if you’re a 200lb man, don’t expect a 100lb little girl will be the best attacker for ground chokes, but don’t pretend you’re light as a feather when it’s her turn, so bring it girls!
–Ohh and you will get bruises… wear them proud. :)
Like other reviewers said:
Yup, 5 Stars all around.
«Good Luck in your Training!»

Look, you’re a busy professional. You don’t have time for classes that teach you how to yell in korean or work towards that next belt color. You want to learn quickly how to defend yourself against today’s more and more dangerous world. Not how to break boards or show off your new pedicure on a dirty dojo mat. Take this class! Dana and the instructors will have you trained and CONFIDENT you can take care of yourself and your loved ones in ONE session. (He might not tell you that — he’s modest — but its true.) I’m a large guy and can say hands down that regardless of size or strength, the awareness and techniques taught in this class can save ANYONE’S life.
Do it.

Great classes for all levels, and every class is challenging, innovative, and relevant to real life scenarios. That is the beauty of Krav and it is why this school is the best in San Diego. bar none.
Instructors & Students
instructors do a fantastic job and keeping all skill levels involved, and the camaraderie of the students that help one another is unlike any other boxing, muay thai gym that I’ve been involved with. The students all well mixed between men and women, and young to middle aged, so everyone fits in and its a nice blend.
Classes
I love the real world scenario that Krav and the instructors prepare you for. That’s what makes this group so unique versus many other martial arts. Jiu Jitsu is cool for 1 on 1s, Muay Thai is cool if they are not holding a stick or fighting multiple people, and boxing is good 1 on 1 and no kicks or take downs. Krav covers all scenarios, and especially group settings, it’s like the best of all worlds!
Some classes are inside large rooms, small rooms (give you that bar or crowd like scenario) outside. even at the beach.
All in all, if you are looking for self defense or looking for a great community to learn with, this is your place. Come check them out. Dana and the other instructors are very professional and welcoming!

5 stars for the instructors
5 stars for the effectiveness of Krav Maga
5 stars for the amount of knowledge I gained in only a few months
5 stars for the simulation of real life scenarios
The instructors are skilled and patient. The experienced students are on hand and always willing to help out with good advice. Most importantly, safety is their top priority and from my experiences elsewhere I can tell you it is way above what is standard.
One advice: Krav Maga isn’t for everyone and I strongly encourage you observe a class or two before committing to the training. Having said that, the students were most diverse in age and experience. Active duty marines, professionals, stay at home moms, high-​school students, college students, 50+ men and women, so as long as you are willing to put forth the effort (and some money) you can use this.