FAQ

Krav Maga is an Israeli self defense system created for real-world survival. Developed in the 1930s by Imi Lichtenfeld, it combines techniques from boxing, wrestling, jiu jitsu, judo, karate, and more. The system focuses on instinctive movements, rapid reactions, and neutralizing threats quickly. Unlike traditional martial arts, Krav Maga classes in Cincinnati skip rituals and forms—everything you learn is practical and designed to keep you and your loved ones safe.

Every class at Cincinnati Krav Maga in Blue Ash is practical, challenging, and empowering. You’ll train through drills, partner exercises, and real-life scenario practice. Each session blends self defense training, fitness conditioning, and confidence-building so you leave stronger and better prepared.  Try our $19 Intro Session

Yes. Krav Maga for beginners in Cincinnati is simple, effective, and easy to pick up. Because it’s based on natural body movements and instinctive reactions, you’ll walk away from your very first class with usable self defense techniques—no prior martial arts or fitness experience required.

Simple answer? Yes. At Cincinnati Krav Maga, we use a belt-level system to track progress and mastery. Unlike traditional martial arts, belts don’t require memorizing forms or rituals. Instead, they simply mark skill development and show when you’re ready for more advanced techniques.

Not at all. Our self defense classes in Cincinnati are for every fitness level. Many students come to Krav Maga as an alternative to the gym—each class gives you a full-body workout while teaching real-world skills. Whether you want to get in shape, build confidence, or improve safety, Krav Maga adapts to you.

Right away. From your first class at Cincinnati Krav Maga, you’ll leave with practical techniques you can use immediately. The system was designed to deliver fast results without months of waiting.

We offer teen and adult Krav Maga classes plus specialized seminars for groups across the Greater Cincinnati region, including:

Teen Krav Maga (ages 13+) – confidence, focus, and resilience.

Kids Krav Maga (ages 8–12) – launching soon! Look for special kids self defense seminars in Cincinnati with age-appropriate skills.

Senior Self Defense Classes – adapted for balance, mobility, and safety. Our classes are structured to ensure everyone trains safely, builds confidence, and progresses at their own pace.  However, most of our seniors prefer to be in our regular classes - you don't get to choose who attacks you in real life, better to prepare with people of all ages.

Yes. Krav Maga is an active, hands-on self defense system, and like any physical training it involves some risk. At Cincinnati Krav Maga, we keep safety front and center. Our instructors create a controlled, supportive environment where students train with respect, focus on proper technique, and progress step by step. You’ll be challenged in class, but always with safety in mind. To maintain high standards, we also bring in an Israeli Krav Maga instructor each year for advanced training and instructor development, ensuring what you learn is both authentic and responsibly taught.

Krav Maga blends the most effective parts of many martial arts and fighting systems into one practical program. Its influences include:

Boxing – punches, footwork, and defense

Wrestling – clinch work and takedowns

Brazilian & Japanese Jiu Jitsu – ground defense and submissions

Judo – throws and leverageKarate – powerful strikes and stances

Kung Fu – fluid movements

Muay Thai – knees, elbows, and close-range striking

Aikido – redirection and joint control

Kickboxing & Savate – dynamic kicking and conditioning

Military hand-to-hand combat systems – battlefield efficiency

Dance & Ballet – balance, rhythm, and coordinationImi Lichtenfeld, Krav Maga’s founder, combined these influences with his experience as a boxer, wrestler, soldier, and dancer to create a system focused only on practical survival. Today, it is practiced worldwide by civilians, police, and military forces.

Krav Maga is for everyone in Greater Cincinnati, regardless of age, gender, or fitness level:

Women’s Self Defense Classes in Cincinnati – learn to defend against larger attackers and build confidence.

Men’s Self Defense Training – sharpen awareness, fitness, and protection skills.

Teen Krav Maga (ages 13+) – prepare teens for challenges at school and beyond.

Kids Krav Maga (ages 8–12) – launching soon with special self defense seminars.

College Student Self Defense – prepare for dorms, campus life, and independence.

Senior Self Defense in Cincinnati – improve balance, mobility, and empowerment.

Professionals – Realtor safety training, healthcare, and service industry workers.

Business & Organization Seminars – custom workshops for workplace safety and team building.

Fitness Alternative – for those bored with the gym, Krav Maga delivers a high-energy workout plus real skills.

Most students train 2–3 times per week, but your membership includes unlimited classes. Whether you want to attend once a week or every day, you can train at your own pace and still see results.

We are Cincinnati’s oldest and only dedicated Krav Maga school, proudly serving the Greater Cincinnati and Blue Ash area since 2013. Our school is warm and welcoming, with expert instructors trained directly by Israeli Krav Maga specialists. Students choose us for authentic training, real results, and a supportive community.

Ready to Get Started?Build confidence, improve fitness, and learn real self defense skills at Cincinnati Krav Maga. Sign up for our $19 intro class today and walk away with techniques you can use immediately.