Krav Maga Raleigh is a great school with excellent instruction and training partners. Everyone looks out for each other while training hard. There is Krav Maga for all different levels so finding a suitable class as you advance is easy. Also offered are fitness class designed for all. Finally, there are classes every day so I can train when it suits my schedule. I would definitely recommend Krav Maga Raleigh to anyone interested in really self-defense, or simply looking for a way to exercise that is not a boring old gym. read more

I've been a member now off and on for 12-ish years. I've been to a few different Krav Maga gyms/studios and nothing compares to Krav Maga Raleigh! The instructors are knowledgeable, friendly, and will not hesitate to answer your questions. The facility is well kept and clean. I started at KMR for fitness goals and to lose weight and it has definitely helped me get cardio in either through the regular Krav Maga training classes, the fitness classes, or specialty skills seminars. This is definitely a great place to get a good workout in and to learn a life-saving skill at the same time. read more

Hands-down the best place to learn self defense. I've been to a handful of Krav Maga / self defense studios, and Krav Maga Raleigh is definitely my favorite. I've been training here for 6 months now, attending every class my hectic work schedule will allow (usually 4-6 classes per week). It is a very affordable studio, and your dues get you access to unlimited classes each month. Additionally, you also have access to fitness / kickboxing classes that will really whip you into shape. The instructors are all incredibly knowledgeable and accommodating of individual circumstances, and even in group classes you receive personalized instruction, allowing you to improve your skills quickly. Each instructor has a different style while still following the same curriculum, so it is easy to pick a class / time that fits both your schedule, personality, and desired intensity level. Yet everyone here feels like a family and supports each other both inside and outside of class. Each class is a combination of cardio warm-up, striking, conditioning, defense against strikes, and defense against more nuanced attacks, such as headlocks or ground defense. Classes are designed so that you can practice each technique safely, but still learn how to power through the stress of a scary situation. You learn the technique, then undergo various modifications and drills that teach you how to adapt in the moment, as you would have to in a real situation. At the end of class you will feel incredibly empowered, having just received a great workout, learned how to land a solid punch, and get out of scary situations. Honestly I cannot recommend this place enough. read more

Literally, when I dream I fancy myself a cute Israeli bad-ass assassin type kind of like Ziva David on NCIS. And then I wake up and remember I'm a shrimpy, wimpy, little woman more interested in yoga and my inner peace than channeling my inner warrior or bad-ass. But after a bizarre false alarm home intrusion incident which resulted in me defending our home from invisible burglars with a large silver Maglite and a Wüsthof kitchen knife, my roommate Liz M. shaking her head in amused disbelief decided it was time to learn a little something about basic self defense, for her safety and mine. We signed up for the Women's Self Defense Workshop ($20) and clad in our cutest yoga outfits ("Is this appropriate bad-ass attire?" I mused) on a beautiful Saturday afternoon, joined 18 other women all excitedly bouncing around ready for the next two hours of Israeli Bad-Ass training. It was instantly apparent (to me and probably everyone else) that I'm definitely not a bad-ass, and the 10-15 or so male and female instructors loudly let me know this as well shouting "GET AGGRESSIVE! KICK, GROIN, GROIN, AIM for the GROIN!" In addition to the amazing workout, I got beat up and bruised (that padded mat kicked my butt) and best of all I did learn how to break chokes, grabs, bearhugs, and other attacks in realistic situations, like in the dark (they turned off the lights) and with random strangers. I wouldn't say I enjoyed the class per say (I'm still a peaceful person by nature) but it was an awesome challenge for this wimpy kid, and I'd go again as I definitely learned something useful like mess with me and I'll knee you in the groin two times and jab you in the head a la Emril's "BAM!" Sound effects included. read more

See all

They keep sending me emails when I have asked to be removed from their email list and not to be contacted multiple times. In addition, when I try to call to speak to someone about removing my info from their email list, no one answers or returns the voicemails. It is just so unnecessarily annoying. read more

Note that most of the reviews here are from people in attendance less than three months, which is well within the normal turnover rate for Krav. Most students leave within that period, so take them with a grain of salt. As the second longest attending student at KMR (almost 5 1/2 years), it pains me to write this review, but quite frankly, the studio has morphed into something completely different than when I joined in January 2009. Back then, it was a small, rag-tag team of students and the owner leasing space from a yoga studio. The owner was passionate and enjoyed answering questions and really spending time working with students, helping them grow. It was a welcoming, tight-knit group. As the business grew over the years, and the studio moved into its own space, the ambiance transitioned into more of a hard-core, impersonal environment, where questions became discouraged, and the owner began treating students disparagingly and in a disrespectful manner. Think about asking a question about a complicated drill, because the owner went over the instructional part too quickly, only to be humiliated in front of the entire class for asking a question. Even worse, think about being told that you could not ask a question. Training became one-dimensional, more of the owner barking orders and the students reluctant to ask questions. It became an environment not conducive to learning. As time progressed the owner began farming-out instruction of lower-level classes to other students, and his involvement was limited to teaching only level 4/5 classes and sparring. Other instructors began adopting the owner's style; swearing in class, discouraging questions or reviews of techniques, and treating students poorly. The studio became a factory for attracting as many new students as possible to keep enrollment high as attrition is a key factor and most students never make it to level 2 (minimum 6 months). I left the studio after continually being treated poorly by the owner, including being told to leave the studio after I stepped off the mat during a particularly difficult drill to use the restroom (I felt physically sick). When asked if I could attend the next class, I was told 'no'. That behavior was completely inappropriate according to KM Worldwide (I checked). Unless there was a safety issue, the owner has no legitimate reason to prohibit a student from rejoining class, or barring them from attending another. Others have also left because of the owner's poor attitude which is often arrogant, and condescending. You will be belittled if you are not performing at the level he thinks you should be. Hypocritically, he will often step off the mat to talk to friends for minutes on end or to check his phone while we are training. Many times, he stands in the corner passively looking out the window instead of actively participating in training. If you are conservative in a socio-political perspective and it becomes known, you will either be asked to leave outright, or via passive-aggressive behavior, your experience will become unpleasant to the point that you quit. There is also a practice to have instructors teaching classes they have not been qualified to teach (via a process called Phase). That is a violation of KM franchise rules. There are some very dedicated and personable instructors at KMR, but my experience and belief is that paying someone to be treated poorly is absurd. There are other KM studios in the area that have much better interpersonal training skills (they opened their studio after being told to leave KMR). My advice would be to look t these other studios for the best Krav experience. KMR was a part of my life for almost 5 /12 years; leaving was a difficult decision, but in switching to another form of martial arts, where the instructors spend time interacting and teaching and encouraging questions (the true meaning of a sensei) I discovered that I made the right decision. read more

A little disappointed that they don't allow for a drop in class. I attend a Krav maga school out of town and have been visiting schools in my travels...as I think every instructor has something to teach you. After being asked if I currently belong to a school, I was informed I couldn't come in because I am alliance and they are worldwide. Disappointing. All I wanted was a basic class, which anyone should be able to attend. I've been to three other schools that did allow for a drop in (fee and no fee). Good luck to them. read more

I just recently discovered this place, and I'm so happy I did! What a FUN, exhilarating way to work out and build your self defense skills! I've only taken two level 1 classes so far and one of their fitness classes, but I already feel more confident in my fighting abilities and can't wait to get in better shape. The Krav classes are an hour long, and just fly by. They start with some exercises to get your heart rate up and stretch out your muscles before they start teaching you some extremely useful defense techniques (which are also a great workout)! Not only are the classes super fun, but the instructors and staff members are fantastic and very friendly. They do a really great job of demonstrating the skills, and then come around the room to help you out and give you pointers if you're struggling to grasp the technique. I felt very welcomed when I first entered the studio. Unlike many other martial arts, there isn't any pressure here to "show off" your skills. Everyone is here to learn and help each other out. You will be sore after your first few classes, but it's a great feeling! Why bother training in self defense if you don't expect to get a little beat up (and of course improve your toughness) in the process?! Whether your primary goal is a fun way to work out and get in shape or to learn some good self defense (or both), you will love Krav Maga! read more

I am a 69 YO guy who has trained at three different KM gyms and Krav Maga Raleigh is tops. First of all KM World Wide trains it's instructors very well and there is consistency no matter which instructor you have on a given day. The facility has AC and is kept clean and organized. I felt a sort of family atmosphere from the first time I walked in. Instructors, fellow students and employees are very friendly. Don't let your shyness hold you back from walking through their door. The bottom line of an KM gym is their instructors. All who I have trained with are competent, patient and highly motivated to help students achieve proper technique. read more

Welcome to my newest addiction! I started here back in my May 2011 and have been loving it ever since. They have a good studio and it's location is convenient in Downtown Raleigh. Doesn't hurt that it's less than 10 minutes away from my house too. Ken is the head instructor and is an awesome guy. Anyone who can show me how to get out of a bear hug and take down a fool is A-OK in my book! They have various class dates and times, so for those with busy work schedules, you can definitely find a convenient time to go. There is a parking garage right behind it that has free parking after 7pm or if you catch a day class, I've never spent more than $3 on parking. Classes are 1 hour long. A session starts with warm ups, which makes me sweat... A LOT, then you get into the routine and drills for the day. When they shut off the lights, it's go time! Once a month, they do a Woman's Self Defense class and it's open to anyone, not just members of the gym. To all women out there, I HIGHLY recommend self defense classes. Unfortunately, I've known some woman that were victims and I can't stress enough how important it is to know how to defend yourself. Not to mention, it's great exercise and a good opportunity to socialize with others....while kicking ass! The other instructors are all really cool and each lesson will alternate amongst the instructors. Usually there are 2 or 3 of them during a class. Day classes are usually smaller, so it may just be Ken or someone else. Evening classes can get quite large. I think the most students I've seen in one class was around 20 people, give or take. I look forward to my next class and sparring with you whom is reading this! BRING IT ON! :-) read more

I've been doing martial arts for 11 years now, starting when I was 6 years old. Having been an instructor for almost half of that time, I know what makes a good teacher and what makes a good school. Krav Maga Raleigh is a great school with great instructors. I did TaeKwonDo until June of 2013, deciding that it wasn't practically useful enough for me. I didn't feel like I was learning. I heard about KMR from a friend, who seemed pretty passionate about his discipline. The studio was 30 minutes away from home, so that sucked -- but I took a class anyway to see what I would be getting. My first class taught me a more useful technique than I had learned in a decade of TaeKwonDo. This, combined with high-energy drills and authoritative but friendly instruction that made me feel like I'd really accomplished something, charged me with enthusiasm to make this discipline a part of my life. I signed up that day, and I've been doing Krav Maga for almost a year and a half now. If you're looking for a martial arts school in the Triangle that's dedicated to giving you real-world survival skills, look no further than KMR. If you're looking for an experience that will leave you feeling empowered and confident, look no further than KMR. Even if you're just looking for a place to punch things and work up a sweat, look no further than KMR. It's a no-nonsense, get-stuff-done kind of place, and I love it here. Oh, and the 30-minute drive is more than worth it. read more

I've been an active member of Krav Maga Raleigh for going on three years now. Currently, I'm a level 4 student and I'm looking forward to continue learning. KMR offers: Great Fitness Benefits Consistent Instruction Superb Self-Defense Training Classes During Daytime, Evenings and Weekends A Friendly, Welcoming Atmosphere More than Reasonable Cost of Training I can't say enough good things about Ken Richstadt, the owner of KMR, or the incredible staff of instructors. The classes are energetic, challenging, and most of all, a lot of fun. Krav Maga Raleigh is a great place for anyone who wants to get into incredible shape and learn great self-defense skills. New students learn the correct way to punch and other self-defense techniques during their very first class. As you progress, you'll learn how to defend yourself from attackers using knives, guns, sticks, etc. There are also some great grappling and fitness classes included as well. I attended my first class in December, 2011 and have been enjoying it ever since! read more

Love this place. I was so happy that there was a Krav Place for my kids. I looked last year and didn't find it. My trainer told me about it and I knew I would love it. The only thing I would say is the classes for younger kids are a little late. So we miss class a lot. Overall, I say the best activity I have found in the triangle for kids under 10. read more

I've had no previous martial arts experience, so taking Krav Maga was one of the best decisions I've ever made. The practice trains you for a potential real world experience- especially if you're female. If the instructors at Krav Maga Raleigh weren't as encouraging and dedicated to the student as they are, I might've quit or gone to look for another gym. But I've found a home at KMR. read more

My boyfriend and I went to KMR for over 5 years combined, and loved it! The instructors are great, classes are always fun and challenging, and the fitness classes will kick your behind into shape!!! The only reason we don't practice Krav there anymore is because we moved out of state, but whenever we visit NC we always stop by to train and say hello. We always felt like everyone at KMR was family. If you want to learn Krav Maga from the best, you should stop by KMR. I guarantee you will learn a lot, and everyone will make you feel right at home. read more

I don't ever write reviews but I felt so strongly about this that I decided to post this. First of all, I have been a student at KMR for two years. I have greatly enjoyed the experience and would highly recommend it to anyone with an interest in Krav Maga, Martial arts, or if you just want to get physically fit and have a lot of fun. Don't worry if you are out of shape or have no martial arts background, I promise that if you put the time in and work hard you will succeed. The instructors are professional and knowledgeable and the training is intense and fun. I've got a background in wrestling, boxing, and military combative training so I have at least some qualification to be writing this review. You should sign up at Krav Maga Raleigh immediately If you are looking for: -Professional instructors -No BS training in how to defend yourself and others -Conditioning/fitness -a "no ego" environment where everyone is treated equally -a legitimate Krav Maga experience -training that will push you physically and mentally outside of your comfort zone -A high skill ceiling that will take you years to "master" (after two years I am just a green belt and still feel like there is a ton of material I haven't explored) You should go some place else if you are: -A "bro" with an ego and something to prove -A shill for another school or a "my program is better than your program" douchebag. I am a believer in the Krav Maga system and philosophy and can assure you that Krav Maga Raleigh is 100% authentic and an excellent place to train. KIDA read more

I am a walking advertisement for KMR. I've been going there for a couple to a few years, the exact amount of time is lost in a haze of punching, groin kicking and burpees! :) I tell everyone I encounter how much I love it and would recommend it. ANYONE, no matter their level of martial arts experience in other arenas, could benefit from this training. Honestly, I can't recommend this place enough. I went in hoping for just a few basic tricks in the self defense arena. As a small woman I was tired of feeling apprehensive just walking down the street and wondering how I'd defend myself if attacked. Now I can walk down the street and feel comfortable, knowing I could defend myself if need be. So instead of getting just a few tricks it's changed who I am as a person. I walk differently in the world. In addition to teaching self defense, the conditioning you get from Krav is second to none. I've always been in decent shape from running and working out, but these classes (and the fitness classes) push me hard. You really learn what you're made of when you are at the point of collapse and they yell to go harder...and you do, you can. The instructors are just the best. They are patient and kind and tough. They take the time to make sure you understand something, but will also push you beyond where you thought you could go. They're all super professional and really know their stuff. Each one brings something different to the table. It's a great environment. I would say the ego factor there is WAY way less than I've ever encountered at other studios, or gyms. No one lets me slack off because I'm little. They force me to go harder because I will need to in real life situations. So like I said, a walking advertisement for this place. Please do yourself a favor and go check it out ASAP. read more

It's just fun!! I became a student of Krav Maga Raleigh in November 2009. My first level 1 class remains one of the most intense and cool things I've ever done. Ken Richstadt, the owner, taught the class and had us striking and kicking pads for what seemed like forever. Then he taught us how to defend a "choke from the front," a classic Krav Maga level 1 technique. As with most Krav techniques, the defense was both simple and vicious. At the end of that first class, I was exhausted and drenched with sweat. But in the course of just one hour, I learned how to throw a real punch, deliver a groin kick that would cripple a man twice my size, and defend myself from being choked. What a start!! I was hooked! KMR is a great way to get in shape and learn a useful skill. The things you'll learn will far exceed your expectations, such as how to defend against a guillotine choke, bear hug, hair pull, and knife attack. You will even learn how to disarm someone with a gun. You will become skilled at throwing all types of punches, kicks and attacks. And because many fights end up on the ground, you will learn how to fight from the ground from some of Raleigh's best judo and wrestling instructors. But best of all is KMR's people. Ken is a talented martial artist with multiple black belts in several disciplines. He is also one of the most skilled communicators and teachers I have ever encountered. His commitment to making KMR a positive experience for everyone is evidenced by the fact that all of the people I've met at KMR, instructors and students, have been terrific. It's a great place with great people. After five years and hundreds of classes, I'm still learning. And still having fun! read more

Been going here for around a year and a half and I couldn't be more happy about it. The instructors are down to earth and more than willing to go your pace. They go the extra mile to make you feel comfortable while pushing you to your limits physically and mentally. I definitely recommend this to anyone looking for self defense or physical fitness. read more

I started taking krav maga at another studio that was closer to home in the Chapel Hill/Durham area. I fell in love with the workout and the feeling that I could defend myself if needed. I then found out that two of my absolute favorite instructors were leaving the studio to teach and train at KMR believe that KMR would be better for their own training and a better teaching atmosphere. After one or two classes at KMR I realized that all the instructors and the curriculum were far superior to what I was used to. I also was able to see the full curriculum written down for the first time and realized I had not been taught a third of it. At this point, I made the decision to leave the closer studio to travel an additional 20 miles to KMR. I've been at KMR now for 2 years and I have never regretted this decision. I believe that all the instructors are amazing. Overall, every single instructor is extremely competent and is trained by Ken (the owner) who oversees everyone's teaching. He is meticulous, so his classes are great and his instructors follow his lead and are amazing as well. As with most gyms/studios/etc., each instructor is different and has their own quirks. Some instructors are more technical, others love burpees and tiring you out, and focus on being more aggressive. There is a teacher for every personality which is important when you are trying to learn moves that you have never seen before. Another great aspect of KMR is the atmosphere. It's a relaxed atmosphere and all the students and teachers are extremely approachable. If you come regularly for a month or two, you will undoubtedly find a workout partner who is encouraging and you will get excited to test into the test level with them. As a women, one thing I really like about KMR is their attention to being a good training partner. Krav maga trains you to be brutal in your attacks, so being on the other side of the attacks can be painful or outright dangerous if not taught properly. However KMR takes it a step further and makes sure to teach control while being a good partner. This is important especially if there is a significant height and weight difference. Overall the people and the teaching are amazing which is why I travel over 30 miles to go to KMR. read more

Great workout, top notch instructors, great facility. I've been training at KMR for 2 years and I can't say enough good things about the place. Classes consist of cardio warm up, fundamental technique instruction, introduction of a common attack and defense, and drills to practice the technique. The hour flies by! It's a great workout that is accessible to anyone, regardless of age, ability, or fitness level. The instructors will help you modify based on your abilities. Members are encouraged to push themselves, but nobody is going to yell at you if you sit out a drill. KMR classes will take you out of your comfort zone, but always with deepest respect for each person. None of the icky boot camp vibe here. I have learned how to fight here, and can definitely defend myself if something happens. Instruction is based on real-life attack scenarios. I have also gotten in really good shape. The things I've learned in krav I use in other areas of life too. I am now more assertive but also more zen. This place is remarkably chill and unpretentious. It's a great place to burn off some calories and stress. I want everyone to come try a class, but especially the women. This is a welcoming environment where you get to punch things! read more

Awesome studio for martial arts. Lots of mats and floor space both above and below. The location is great and the building inside is pretty cool. Very nice huge windows up stairs. We recently had our capoeira workshop there on a saturday and were offered a Tues night 8:30 PM spot for class. Hope to see you there!! read more

Appalling McDojo I attended KMR for about a year. When I first started, I enjoyed the classes and the great workouts, but after a few months I noticed that the training and classes started going downhill. I have a long history of of martial arts training and some of the things I have seen at KMR make it a disgraceful place to learn self-defense. KMR has a lot of McDojo qualities and for this reason I left. Some of the McDojo qualities I came across were: - Instructors never allow students to ask any questions and heaven forbid a student asked a simple question about a technique, the instructor proceeded in ridiculing and belittling the student in front of everyone. - The Instructors never train with the students, not even with the higher level students. I never saw the owner train at all, which makes me wonder how he got his black belt if he never trains at his own martial arts location. - I saw an instructor (Dwight, I think is his name) playing around on Tinder while the assistant instructor was busy doing the warm-up portion of the class with the students. - On one occasion I had not attended class for about a week because I was busy with work. The owner came up to me and asked me why I hadn't been taking classes. I explained that I was busy with lots of work. His response was, "Well you shouldn't be working so much and attend more classes." - I've seen the owner and a kid instructor spend more time flirting with the females during the Tuesday and Wednesday Fitness classes than actually teaching the class. - In casual conversation, I told the owner that I was attending other martial art workshops, I was told to not attend classes anywhere else except at KMR. - In another casual conversation, I brought up the fact that I was doing crossfit somewhere else and I was told by a KMR instructor how bad crossfit and that I should just take the KMR fitness classes. - There is usually an even number of male and female students, and yet I constantly saw male instructors spend more time "correcting" the females rather than the males, usually putting their hands on the females' hips unnecessarily. This goes on at least once in every class these specific instructors teach. I personally could not see myself training at a studio where instructors spend their time on Tinder during class; humiliating and berating students; and, fail to train with their students. If you can ignore the berating and humiliating coming from one or two instructors, KMR is a decent place to train if you're on a budget. I would rather save up my money and go to a quality martial arts school where instructors don't talk down or belittle their students; where students are encouraged to try different martial arts and different forms of exercising; and, where instructors spend their time teaching students and answering their questions, and not focusing on trying to find a date for Saturday night. read more

For those unfamiliar with Krav Maga, I suggest you check out the Wikipedia article. I'll wait here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Krav_maga Welcome back. As you can see, Krav is an extremely valuable form of self defense that emphasizes real world situations and survival above all else. The way Ken Richstad runs Krav Maga Raleigh also means it is a good workout. I joined Krav Maga Raleigh in November 2008, shortly after the doors opened, and immediately became addicted. It has grown a lot since then, but the sheer enjoyment and empowerment I've gotten out of the training hasn't changed one bit. The instructor and students are a great group, wholly supportive and more like a family than a group of strangers that try to beat you up several times a week. The schedule, available on KMR's website, is extremely flexible with various classes every day except Friday and Sunday. There are even classes at noon during the week, for those who can make a lunchtime trip to downtown Raleigh from their place of work. So, without further ado, you need to come check out a class or two. Look for the "Level 1" or "Mixed Level" classes on the schedule and make your way downtown one day. *Tips* **Wear comfortable clothes that won't restrict your movement. **Sweatpants & a long-sleeved shirt are good for winter, but dress in layers in case you get too warm. You *WILL* sweat during the training, even in winter **Water or suitable sports drink is highly recommended **Be prepared to train barefoot (don't worry, you're on a mat) **Don't wear jewelry or watches during training and long hair should be tied up *Parking* Use the parking deck that is located on S. Blount Street between E. Morgan St. & E. Hargett St. Go to the ground floor and exit on the Hargett St. side of the deck. Walking toward Hargett St, you will be in between two buildings and see a stairway going below street level. This takes you to the KMR studio. Use this Google Maps link to see where you will exit the parking deck and the entrance to KMR: http://bit.ly/eSpOeM If you are a bit turned around, just look for other people in proper training attire and ask them if they're going to KMR. Parking at this deck is free after 7pm weekdays and free on the weekends. If you arrive before 7pm, it is only $1-2. read more

You got to try it and see for yourself! When I did, I was hooked..Great workout and self confidence builder....Ken and the other instructors are great and know their stuff...street smart & realistic situational self defense is what attracted me to Krav... Harrison Tulloss read more

I wanted to try something new while still getting a great workout. I am getting a crazy good workout and feel as though I am also learning some good practical self-defense training. Part of the toughness is having partners who are either stronger or larger which makes me work harder. I did not do any form of martial arts previously but am really enjoying the classes at Krav Maga Raleigh. read more

I love Krav Maga Raleigh! I never saw myself as ever being a martial artist. I first attended Krav Maga Raleigh back in 2011 in order to complete my Bucket List task "Learn a Martial Art", but after a few classes taken at KMR, Krav Maga became my #1 hobby. The staff are super friendly and provide excellent customer service. The instructors are top notch and are very good at not only teaching but motivating students to never give up, especially when exhausted. It has been very easy to make friends here thanks to the warm and friendly ambiance Krav Maga Raleigh creates. Whether you want to learn a new martial art or just want to get into the best shape of your life, I suggest you take a few classes at Krav Maga Raleigh. You won't regret it. read more

I have been training here for about a little over a month. I only wish I could make class more often! The people I have met here are great and the instructors do a great job teaching Krav. I decided to write this review because I read a few other reviews that were negative because the person writing the review disagreed with the social/ political beliefs of an instructor that I have personally never met. I am not going to go into detail because I don't feel that this person(s) addressed the training and core aspect of this gym. TO ME this gym is great because they do a great job of training you in realistic self defense and I have never once been to a class were anything even remotely political or social was discussed or brought up in the course of class/ training. I am an honorably discharged Marine Combat Veteran and I can honestly say that I have learned more about self defense (WITHOUT EVER HAVING TO SUFFER THROUGH SOMEONE, i.e. AN INSTRUCTOR, ELSE'S POLITICAL OR SOCIAL VIEWS DURING CLASS) than I did in all four years of my Marine Corps Enlistment. I realize and agree that finding a gym where "you" feel respected and appreciated is very, very important, but in my experience all of the instructors and students here have been ABSOLUTELY PROFESSIONAL, COURTEOUS, AND KNOWLEDGEABLE! I recommend this place to ANYONE, regardless of their political, social, religious, or sexual orientation; SO LONG AS YOU CHECK YOUR OPINIONS AND EGO AT THE DOOR! Remember people are coming here to learn HOW TO FIGHT EFFECTIVELY, NOT CATER TOO YOUR WORLDVIEW! if you can't handle that shut up and don't come; otherwise I can't tell you adequately in words just how happy you will be with all aspects of this place and the people who come here to train. WITHOUT A DOUBT EVERY CLASS I ATTEND IS THE HIGHLIGHT OF MY WEEK! read more

I was interested in checking out Krav Maga studios. I submitted a request through their website and scheduled an appointment to see the facility. The marketing person, who's name I think was Angela, was extremely rude and condescending. I found her to be judgemental and I did not feel welcome as so someone that would be a newcomer. Maybe if you are an experienced Level 3 or above this could be a good place to train. However, I did not find them to be very accepting of beginners. I heard good things about the instructors so I was disappointed that my experience visiting the studio was so negative. I don't think they should allow themselves to be represented by such an unprofessional staff. No thanks. I will look elsewhere. read more

Great training, great people, great prices. Unpretentious facilities (needs better A/C). Get ready for a maximum workout. I wish they had a slower senior citizens class for us old fogies. read more

Although I have always viewed ratings in making decisions about what businesses to seek out, I never thought I would actually write a review of one. That is, until I visited KMR. The only reason I write this is the hope that someone considering Krav Maga will not be exposed to the subpar version KMR offers. Before I begin, let me mention that I've trained in Krav for a while now, and being a student, I have had the opportunity to train at 3 other schools. When I moved to Chapel Hill, I immediately began searching for a Krav studio to continue my training. KMR has a nice studio so I figured I'd give it a shot. The class began with the instructor asking a random student to run the warm-up drill while he promptly exited the building. He eventually came back, and we began learning a level one technique. Instead of teaching this to the class, he once again picked another random student to perform it, while he put on the attack. I was blown away. Having learned this technique before, I could see that the student had no idea what he was doing. The problem is, in a level 1 class, the other students didn't seem to understand that this was being done improperly. Moving forward, we began practicing the move on partners. The instructor, however, didn't bother to observe us, and instead went and checked the pre-arranged teaching schedule, as he seemed to have forgotten what was on today's agenda. I honestly could not believe this guy's laziness. By the way, this wasn't even a new instructor, this guy teaches upper level classes and has been with the school for many years. I really could go on listing the failures, but I think everyone gets the point by now. What is so sad is that people are paying to be taught to protect themselves and their loved ones. That laziness could ever enter into the classroom is beyond belief. Of every school I've trained at, this one was by far the worst. It was incredibly disheartening to see such an amazing system be "taught" so poorly and with such apathy. To the students at KMR- you are not being taught Krav Maga. I encourage you to check out another school to see what you are missing. To individuals thinking about Krav Maga, go elsewhere. I recommend TKM, where I'm now training. But if you don't believe me, just try one class at each school, and you'll understand completely. read more