Orna's Story: From Student to Instructor

Every instructor was once a beginner. My journey with Krav Maga started over 15 years ago when a friend convinced me to try a self-defense class. I was nervous, unfit, and convinced I’d be terrible at it.

The First Class

I remember walking into that studio feeling completely out of place. The other students seemed so confident, so strong. But within minutes, the instructor had us drilling basic strikes, and something clicked. For the first time, I felt like I had tools to protect myself.

The Transformation

Over the months that followed, Krav Maga changed me — not just physically, but mentally. I walked taller. I was more aware of my surroundings. I stopped avoiding dark parking lots out of fear and started navigating them with confidence and alertness.

Why I Founded KravGirls

After earning my instructor certification, I noticed something: most Krav Maga classes were dominated by men. Women who came often felt intimidated and dropped out. I knew there had to be a better way.

KravGirls was born from a simple idea — create a space where women can learn real self-defense without the intimidation factor. A place where it’s okay to be a beginner, where the scenarios we practice reflect the threats women actually face.

What KravGirls Means to Me

Today, KravGirls has trained hundreds of women across multiple countries. But the number that matters most to me isn’t how many students we’ve had — it’s the stories they share. The woman who talked her way out of a dangerous situation using de-escalation techniques we practiced. The student who escaped a wrist grab from an aggressor. The mother who taught her teenage daughter the basics.

Every one of those stories is why I do this. Every woman who walks into our studio nervous and walks out standing a little taller — that’s the mission.

If you’re reading this and thinking, “Could I do this?” — the answer is yes. You absolutely can. And we’d love to help you start.