Since starting my Krav Maga journey, my life has transformed in an exhilarating way. Initially, I was motivated by the desire to share this incredible self-defense system with others.
The Decision to Become a Certified Instructor
After more than two years of dedicated training, the decision was made for me to enroll in the General Instructors Course (GIC). Once this choice was clear, the next crucial step was to determine the when and where for the GIC. I had an easy decision to make when I discovered the opportunity to pursue the GIC in Israel, the birthplace of Krav Maga. Israel had captured my heart since my initiation into Krav Maga, and my annual participation in the Master Camps in Israel events solidified this bond.
Israel: The Birthplace of Krav Maga
Following all the necessary preparations, in September 2016, I embarked on my journey to Israel for the first part of the General Instructors Course. This adventure was filled with anticipation and curiosity.
Living the Krav Maga Lifestyle
I arrived at Eyal’s house, where I would spend the next 12 days alongside my fellow participants, sharing the routine of sleep, meals, and rigorous training. With only 10 of us in the group, we had the privilege of utilizing both the gym and accommodations at the house, making it highly convenient yet incredibly immersive. During the course, there was no escaping the Krav Maga environment.
Throughout the days, you couldn’t go anywhere without encountering someone engrossed in the course materials, training techniques, lesson preparation, or other Krav Maga-related activities. It wasn’t just a course; it was a way of life, encompassing every moment.
The diversity of the participants in the course was striking. We had a balanced group of five men and five women hailing from Turkey, Israel, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, and Denmark. Experience levels ranged from minimal to level G3, providing us with a wealth of perspectives. I’ve always cherished diverse viewpoints, as they offer valuable insights.
One of the highlights for me was the variety of instructors we had during the course, each with a unique focus on training and teaching style. Guided by Pavel, Ilya, and Eyal, we embarked on our journey toward becoming instructors.
The Value of the Journey
It’s difficult for me to contain my enthusiasm when I describe this course, and with good reason. It’s a truly fantastic experience, allowing you to delve deeply into the material while gaining fresh perspectives. Moreover, it’s a mental and physical challenge that helps you grow both professionally and personally. This experience also reveals just how much more there is to learn and underscores that this course is merely the beginning of the journey to becoming an instructor.
The second and final part of the course took place at the end of November when we returned to Israel. There were a few changes in the lineup – new participants from Greece and South Korea joined, and we welcomed Moran as an instructor with a guest appearance by Albert. With these additions, we were back in the Krav Maga bubble, where it was all about eat, sleep, Krav Maga, repeat.
Celebrating Milestones
Celebrating my 50th birthday on this course, doing what I love most, and enjoying a delightful dinner with all the other participants and part of HQ was a truly special treat.
After 24 days of intense training, knowledge absorption, teaching, and testing, there was only one thing that saddened me – it had to come to an end!
Joining the General Instructors Course will undoubtedly make you a better Krav Maga practitioner.
Best wishes,
Marianne