The Latest Tests and Workshops

We had a huge Saturday at Krav Maga Raleigh this weekend, with two tests and a women's self-defense workshop. Let's take them in order: [caption id="attachment_2807" align="aligncenter" width="448"] Another large group![/caption] The first event to start was our always-popular women's self-defense workshop. We've been doing these classes on the last Saturday of every month for years, but they exploded in popularity last year. We're always glad to see so many people taking the opportunity to improve their safety. [caption id="attachment_2808" align="aligncenter" width="448"] Vicious elbows on bear hug from behind[/caption] Shortly after the women's workshop started, Gian and Toni got busy with their level 2 test. The level 2 test is a beast, and being only two people in the test probably makes it harder. All of the attention is on you and there is no chance to even get relief from the gaze of the evaluator and audience. [caption id="attachment_2802" align="aligncenter" width="448"] Pom-poms not included with this high kick. [/caption] To no one's surprise, Gian and Toni did an awesome job. The lead up to this test involved probably seven or eight workshops and multiple private lessons, and it all paid off. Plus they managed to get some awesome pictures! [caption id="attachment_2801" align="aligncenter" width="448"] ACTION SHOT![/caption] Finally we finished with the level 1 test. At eight people this was on the larger side for a level 1 test at Krav Maga Raleigh (although based on the size of classes now I think it will become more standard). A larger group made for a lot of energy, and it didn't hurt that they were all extremely well prepared and very tough. [caption id="attachment_2810" align="aligncenter" width="448"] Shawn is a poet; Willis is a lawyer. Time for some (deep voice), "Poetic Justice." [/caption] [caption id="attachment_2811" align="aligncenter" width="448"] Logan was dealing with a damaged rib the whole test, but Sam didn't take it easy on him. [/caption] All in all it was a triumphant and exhausting day. Thanks to all the students who worked so hard, all the instructors who gave their time to the events, and everyone that came to watch and support the people testing. [caption id="attachment_2803" align="aligncenter" width="448"] Sadly Chloe is moving to Tennessee, so Sam gives her a kick to remember. [/caption] [caption id="attachment_2806" align="aligncenter" width="448"] JD attempts to hit Mark hard enough to remove his British accent. [/caption]