The J is excited to begin offering youth Krav Maga lessons on March 20. The Israeli martial arts program for ages 8-12 will strive to build character while teaching defensive and offensive techniques.
“For years I’ve been looking for a Krav Maga program for kids that will be a good fit here at The J,” says Athletics Director Kirsten Thomas. “With his black belt and well-developed program geared specifically toward kids, Bobby Dixon has the depth of experience we need.”
Originally developed by a Hungarian Jew named Imi Lichtenfeld in Czechoslovakia in the 1930s to help Jews defend themselves against fascist agitators, Krav Maga was later adopted and developed further by the Israel Defense Forces. The program started showing up in the United States in the 1980s.
“What’s great about Krav Maga is that it takes the best elements of a variety of fighting techniques — judo, karate, boxing, wrestling, and aikido — and combines them with a philosophy that fosters confidence and discipline,” Kirsten explains. “As you can imagine, that all makes for a pretty potent combination for kids.”
You can also expect to see a Krav Maga demonstration by Bobby during the April 30 Jewish Food and Culture Fest.
Class details
- Schedule: Mondays and Wednesdays, 3:30-4:15 p.m.
- Cost: $140/month for members, $150/month for non-members
- Instructor: Bobby Dixon (black belt)