Krav Maga Federation

I have over 10 years of martial arts experience in Hapkido, Judo and Taekwando, and must say, Krav Maga is the most practical thing I’ve tried. As the other reviews and Wikipedia state (check them for a more in depth description of the art), most martial arts teach based on some rules of fighting — no groin shots, biting, etc. Krav Maga is all about training you to survive a dangerous situation, and consequently relishes these taboo techniques. It is all about developing your muscle memory and instincts so that, when it really counts, you avoid the deer-​in-​headlights effect. Ditto for speed/​aggression: other martial arts focus on control and fundamentals for years before you get to anything practical. In my experience with Krav Maga, it starts with practicality from the get-​go, and control, respect, technical excellence come as a by-​product.
This brings me to my first critique. I don’t feel like people have developed the proper amount of control for the level of techniques we do. On our tests we are supposed to go a full speed and stop right before striking your partner. Yet I can’t say that I’m totally confident that I won’t get hurt as I train with some of the others. In contrast, I’d trust my Hapkido partners with a full speed spin heel kick to the head. This is probably a difference in philosophy between the Korean martial arts and Krav Maga, and shouldn’t be seen as a critique of Krav Maga Federation DC.
Likewise with technical excellence. If you want a pretty kick, a beautiful throw, a quiet roll, look elsewhere. If you want a spiritual, cultural, or historic connection to your martial art, Krav Maga probably isn’t the best art for you. But if you want to learn how to defend yourself in a practical situation, period, Krav Maga is a go.
On that note, Brian, the instructor, is really a great guy, a good teacher, and a skilled practitioner. He’s a bit rough around the edges and intimidating at first (don’t think about showing up late), but just stick it out and it will pay in spades after a few weeks of training. He’s one of the most friendly and dedicated instructors I’ve had, once I got to know him.
Krav Maga Federation DC is also associated closely with Krav Maga Federation, which is based in lower Manhattan and is a powerhouse organisation. I’ve gone there twice now, had wonderful workouts, played with world experts, and been welcomed as a member of the family (except that one time that Rhon laid into me).
All in all I really like this club. If you are not a dainty flower or a meathead you will too. Actually, if you are a dainty flower come anyway. In short time you will not be.

After my first class I had doubts about whether I should learn Krav Maga under Brian or should I return to Nova MMA where I took three classes in the past. In Nova MMA, I got to actually hit and learn combinations right away. As for Krav Maga Federation, you won’t get to this until you pass your beginner test to the yellow belt.
That being said, I do not regret sticking to KMF and not learning under a different instructor. After a few classes you actually realize that learning combinations and hitting stuff might not be the best idea because your form is awful and needs some serious work. Our classes are usually small, so Brian will give you a lot of attention. Even if you are standing in the back, Brian will see you and pick on you until you get the form right.
Now, speaking about Brian. He is really patient with us. He will ask us after showing a new move or re-​showing us a new move, if we have any question. If we do, he will answer the question regardless of how repetitive the question is or how ridiculous it might be. I haven’t done any martial arts since I was a child and I didn’t think I’d do again because I hated every instructor I had when I was a kid. That’s different with Brian. However, Brian is a bit strict. He will not allow people to practice if they show up after hours. Keep that in mind when you are signing up for classes. If you are not sure you can make the times then talk with Brian or figure out a way to show up on time. Most of the class usually shows up fifteen minutes early to warm up and stretch and sometimes one will go over a move with Brian.
I would definitely recommend KMF for anyone who is looking to learn Krav Maga.

I love this class! It’s both intense and fun with (excellent) instructor Brian, and Jan, the «Assistant to the instructor» as he calls himself, in a nod to The Office. Classes are small and diverse. Many women on Tuesdays, especially. I have zero coordination and am borderline dyslexic, yet these guys have taught me fast kicks and killer strikes and I feel more confident when I walk down the mean DC streets. I also like their sense of community-​building. Brian and Jan are passionate about Krav Maga and you can see that everybody in the class is really into it now.

I started Krav Maga 7 years ago with Krav Maga Federation Headquarters in New York City. I have taken classes in several places in the metro DC area and in a few different States. When I found out KMF open there first school in DC I just knew it was going to be great and I was right. Brian the lead Instructor is a very knowledgeable, and patient. The vibe of the class is very light and friendly. This is great specially for new students.
In small words this is the right place to get a great workout, and to learn how to defend your self!
The only Krav Maga School for me!