Tuesday, January 13, 2009

Krav Maga Kicked My Ass

A friend of mine approached me a couple weeks ago about taking an introductory class in Krav Maga, which is a martial art form developed in Israel and adopted by some Israeli security forces. I have often thought (but never taken any action) about taking some kind of self defense training both because I live in the hood and as a way to develop more discipline and exercise regularly. After I confirmed that it wasn't some kind of pyramid scheme (which is my initial reaction any time someone tells me to come with them to a "meeting" or "training" about something I've never heard of), I agreed.

So we went last night for the first time to Krav Maga DC in Chinatown. I didn't really have any expectations about what it would be like, but within 20 minutes I was pretty convinced I had accidentally joined the marines and was at boot camp.

Even on day 1, the training was nothing short of high intensity. Which was the purpose. As it was explained in the first five minutes, the whole idea is to train hot, because when you need to use the skills you will learn, you will most likely have very little time to think. You train in circumstances that best simulate the adrenaline you will be feeling in a life or death situation - so you can react appropriately in the same circumstances. So we work ourselves into a frenzy with a rapid succession of exercises designed to bring the heart rate up quickly and produce adrenaline and anaerobic glucose burning. There's lots of jumping around, punching, kicking, yelling, and being yelled at.

60 minutes later, I was a sweaty, aching mess. But it felt awesome. I signed up. So watch out thugs, two years from now when Master Yoda finishes with me, you mess with me I KILL YOU.

5 comments:

Anonymous said...

I took a class there last year just to test it out (a co-worker of mine is a member and goes regularly). I liked it, but I live in Alexandria and I wasn't ready to make the commitment. It's quite the kick-ass time, though! :)

(Found my way over here after you left a comment on my friend CapitolHill20210's blog.)

Jamie said...

All I can say is, I am still in pain. But looking forward to the next class.

Anonymous said...

ive been wanting to do this for a year or two...but was worried there wouldnt be any other women...and im fine working out with fellas..but didnt want to make them uncomfortable.... you know a girl invading their "testosterone zone"...
glad to hear you liked it!
xoxo

Jamie said...

There were actually a lot of women there and one of the instructors was also female. I would say it was about 40% women in the class.

I still have not been back (got the flu more than a week ago, finally getting over it!) but will probably go tomorrow.

Anonymous said...

Just stumbled across this and wondered if you kept with the classes?