From looking through this section previously I knew I had to spend some time finding a reputable trainer. Managed to find a class backed by the British association with the trainer being an ex Royal Marine instructor that had completed the Krav Maga instructor training
Went along last night and had a quick chat initially. He said it's great that people lose weight and get fit, but he doesn't care about any of that and that we're there to learn how to fight. No time for fancy moves or showing off. I like. Tough guys, great attitude, takes the piss but ultimately gets the job done, my favourite type of person.
The dudes were pretty hardcore, a few big strong tattooed guys, one bouncer, couple ex military. Some were friendly, others a little standoffish, need to earn respect in this class. We start with a warm up, move into a close contact game to try to defend and attack, punishment being 5-10 squats. Then into some work on the mitts. Punches, side punches, elbows. I'm paired with a man mountain that is strong as fuck, imagining that swing catching me was a real eye opener.
Then we move into getting out of a front choke hold, paired with different guys who were super helpful in helping me get the technique.
Finally ended with a 'pressure test' where 10 guys were in a circle, the guy in centre had to punch mitts as the instructor called out someone to come in and choke hold them, escape, back to mitts, repeat.
We all had a turn in centre and I was called in multiple times to choke hold.
Review after one class:
Like I said I have no experience so I can't compare to anything else, but so far I'm a big fan. Guys seem serious, trainer is spot on, picking up technique then putting it under pressure was a great way to learn. I ache like fuck today, so you know it was good!
Definitely doing this once a week, twice if I can get to class around work.
