Why Are More Women Training in Krav Maga Self Defense?

Self Defense Workshop at Enbridge

ONE OF THE more gratifying developments I have witnessed over the past decade is the increasing number of women training in Krav Maga.  Reports from various International Krav Maga Federation (IKMF) schools across the world report this and it is certainly the case in the Greater Toronto Area and at our Toronto school. 

Over the years, women I have talked with (instructors and students) have identified numerous reasons for this exciting development.


Here are the most frequently cited reasons. 

1.       “It is Practical”:  Krav Maga is based on principles of human kinetics, our natural reactions to danger and simple and easy to perform techniques.  Women, like men, have gravitated to its simple and effective approach to self-defense. 

  “It is Effective Against Larger Attackers:  When women in our classes escape from a very strong wrist grab or any other hold, a door is opened.  This door leads to recognizing how to survive an assault from a larger and/or stronger attacker.  Learning about leverage, striking vulnerable areas, and appropriate aggression inspires confidence and the ability to avoid, escape, and survive. 

Defending Against Choke on the Ground

Toronto students learning knife defenses

3.       “Training is Safe and the Instructors and Students are Respectful” People feel safe training in Krav Maga at our schools. We want to train hard but also safely.   Instructors and students, I am very happy to report, are respectful and friendly. It is part of "our culture" 

Learning to protect others

      " I feel more confident and aware."  Enhanced awareness coupled with developing the physical tools to avoid, escape, and defend are frequently cited reasons women continue to train. 

      " It's Fun."  Self-defense is a serious topic but students like to learn in an environment where people smile and laugh.