Krav Maga Worldwide: Embracing change and elevating standards

Greetings, Krav Maga enthusiasts! My name is Gerwin Kranenburg, owner and lead instructor of Safety Training Center in Harderwijk, The Netherlands, and the License Coordinator and lead-trainer of Krav Maga Worldwide (KMW) in Europe. With a 4th-degree black belt in Krav Maga and over 35 years of teaching experience, including 19 years specifically in Krav Maga, I have witnessed the evolution of this formidable self-defense system and the exciting transformations currently underway within our organization.

The evolution of Krav Maga Worldwide

Krav Maga Worldwide has long been a cornerstone in the self-defense community, known primarily for its rigorous instructor certification programs. However, since January, the organization has embarked on a journey of significant change, implementing a series of initiatives aimed at enriching our community and enhancing the quality of our training programs. These changes mark a new era for KMW—one that prioritizes excellence, inclusivity, and innovation.

New initiatives and programs: Elevating the standard

Among the notable changes are several free courses, such as the Courage Coaching Program, the Expert I handgun certification, business calls, and online training modules. These initiatives reflect a broader philosophy shift within the leadership of KMW. The organization is now placing a stronger emphasis on community-building and providing valuable resources to its members.

Imagine having access to cutting-edge training programs and resources that not only enhance your skills but also elevate your entire center's reputation. With KMW's new initiatives, this vision is becoming a reality.

A Community-Centric approach: Building together

KMW's new direction is characterized by a commitment to finding solutions that benefit the entire community. This approach includes offering various methods for improvement, all of which are optional but highly recommended. For business owners, this shift means a greater focus on service provision aimed at enhancing the quality of each Krav Maga center worldwide.

At KMW, you are part of a thriving community that values collaboration and continuous improvement. Imagine the benefits of being part of a network that actively supports your growth, provides top-tier training resources, and fosters an environment where your input shapes the future of Krav Maga. This is the essence of the new KMW.

Inclusive curriculum development: A voice for all

A significant aspect of the ongoing transformation is the involvement of higher-ranked instructors in curriculum development. This collaborative approach ensures that drills, essential movements, and even the construction of a clear family tree for the system are developed with insights from experienced practitioners. This inclusive strategy aligns with the vision of Krav Maga's founder, Imi Lichtenfeld, promoting a holistic system where the talents within the organization contribute to its evolution.

This means that your expertise and experience are valued and utilized. KMW is not just a training organization; it’s a community where every instructor has a voice and a stake in the system’s development.

Didactical and methodological shifts: Enhancing understanding

The changes within KMW also encompass shifts in teaching styles. The didactical shift moves away from the traditional "instructor tells you what to do" approach to a more coaching-oriented style that encourages students to understand the reasoning behind techniques. This method fosters a deeper comprehension of the system, enabling students to connect basic and advanced techniques more effectively.

Methodologically, the focus is on simplifying the system by clearly defining essential movements and key elements in each technique. This clarity helps both students and instructors grasp the connections between various techniques, making the learning process more intuitive.

Commitment to quality: The hallmark of Krav Maga Worldwide

The renewed focus on quality is evident in the revision and updating of old manuals and the development of new curricula. Programs like the Courage Coaching are being launched, offering invaluable insights for all phase A instructors and above. Even those without plans to pursue coaching will find this program beneficial, as it equips them with the tools to ask powerful questions and become better coaches for their students.

This unwavering commitment to quality sets KMW apart. The new KMW offers elevated standards and innovative training methods that define our vision for the future.

Looking forward: Join us on this exciting journey

I am optimistic that within a year, the entire Krav Maga community will feel invigorated and motivated by the changes being implemented. These transformations are not just about improving the system but about ensuring that we continue to uphold the highest standards of quality in everything we do.

In conclusion, the ongoing changes within Krav Maga Worldwide are a testament to our commitment to excellence and community. By embracing these changes, we are honoring the legacy of Imi Lichtenfeld and working together to make the world a safer place.

Thank you for your dedication to Krav Maga and for being part of this incredible journey. Let's continue to grow, learn, and elevate the standards of our beloved self-defense system.

Stay safe and train hard!

Gerwin Kranenburg
Owner and Lead Instructor, Safety Training Center
License Coordinator and Lead-Trainer, Krav Maga Worldwide Europe