KMDI Members - Tell us your story

Ron Engelman
Head Instructor KMDI & Krav Maga Israel

My family traveled a lot when I was a kid. I was a scrawny child, always the new guy, an easy target for bullies. I started Krav Maga when I was 10. It wasn’t so much the self-defense skills as much as it was finding a place where I finally felt accepted and challenged - this is what gave me the confidence to stand up for myself. When I turned 18 I joined the Israeli Army. The mental toughness and determination that I got from Krav helped me pass selections and complete the long and gruelling training process to join the IDF’s 50th airborne infantry regiment. Later I was sent by my commanders to complete the Military Krav Maga instructors course. 

After my military service in Israel, I moved to Australia to study psychology at University. Through teaching Krav Maga I met new friends and I built a community of people with similar values where outsiders feel welcome and that helps people develop into powerful versions of themselves. 

I live back in Israel now and host instructors and students who come to train with me from all over the world - to learn Krav Maga at its birthplace and experience this beautiful country that I am lucky to call my home. I have traveled the globe teaching Krav Maga and have met extraordinary people many of which have become friends.

I can’t imagine my life without Krav Maga.