Frequently asked questions
Class Information
1.1 What is the location of the classes?
Group classes: Young Israel of North Beverly Hills Synagogue Social Hall
9261 Alden Dr, Beverly Hills, CA.
We also offer at-home private classes for your convenience.
1.2 Where should I park?
Metered and street parking is available on the street.
1.3 How long do classes run for?
60 minutes.
1.4 What are the opportunities to train during the week?
You have several options for training with Giborim. Join us for our weekly Wednesday training session, and consider booking a private lesson on a different day of the week. Training as a family is the best option, as it allows you to enjoy the benefits of both group and private lessons at a discounted rate. We may be adding another group training day during the week, so please contact us if you're interested.
1.5 What equipment is recommended or required to bring to class?
No equipment is required for the session, but we recommend coming prepared to sweat. Wear comfortable workout clothes and tennis shoes. We occasionally use gloves, so for hygiene reasons, we suggest bringing your own, although we do have guest gloves available. We recommend MMA sparring gloves as they provide good padding to protect both you and your training partner, while allowing your fingers to remain accessible for drills that involve hand grabbing and grappling. Additionally, you may want to wear a mouthguard for extra safety, in the rare event that you accidentally make contact with your face.
1.6 What style of martial arts is GIborim Self-defense?
Giborim incorporates fundamental, easy-to-learn techniques from various mixed martial arts (MMA) tailored for self-defense. The martial arts included are Shotokan Machida Karate, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Krav Maga, Muay Thai, Wrestling, and Judo. We have adapted techniques from these disciplines to equip individuals to defend themselves effectively at different ranges: from a distance, in close quarters, in clinches, against a wall, or on the ground.
Unlike traditional martial arts such as Karate or Jiu-Jitsu, Giborim is specifically designed to minimize risks to your life or the lives of your loved ones in unregulated street environments. It also addresses the legal implications that may arise from being involved in a violent street altercation.
1.7 What is the structure of the class and curriculum?
Our curriculum focuses on six core threat scenarios, which we cover in each class. Each session begins with a review of the previous class, followed by training on a new skill, if applicable. Classes start with a demonstration by Coach Kalman. After the demonstration, we participate in individual exercises and drills to warm up and review techniques. Students then pair up for partner drills, and throughout the class, each student has the opportunity to engage in live simulation drills with Coach Kalman. There is always time for questions and to address specific situations raised during class. The safety of our students is our top priority.
Situational awareness and threat aversion from afar
De-escalation and verbal/postural deterrence of aggressors approaching and bordering our zone of personal space (2 arm's length)
Counter-attacks to aggressors who disregard our warnings (punching range)
Safely closing the distance with timing, footwork, and hand positioning
Angling and establishing dominant positioning for your defensive counterattacks
Defensive counterattacks to create your escape window
Punch and kick combinations
Knee and elbow striking in close proximity fighting
Takedowns, trips, and throws
Standing escapes to being grabbed (hugging range)
Wrist grab escapes (single hand, double hand)
Body grab/bear hug escapes from front and behind
Neck grab escapes
Hair-pull escapes
Ground escapes
How to safely fall and protect your head and vitals
Keep standing aggressors away from you
Get aggressors off of you
Safely get back up to your feet
In each class, we review a segment from the previous session to help every student sharpen their self-defense instincts. Some weeks, we progress at the pace of the class, working on the same techniques until Coach Kalman determines that the class is ready to incorporate new skills.
1.8 How many classes do you recommend I start with?
We recommend attending classes at least once a week for three to six months to effectively develop your self-defense fundamentals. While you're deciding if this is the right fit for you, we offer a special pricing option to try out a class, along with a flexible monthly membership that allows you to cancel anytime.
1.9 How often should I train to stay improving
We offer weekly classes that help you progress quickly and consistently, and jining our monthly membership. If you are interested in attending multiple times per week, please email our team, and we will be happy to accommodate your request. staff@giborimclub.com
1.10 Is there a men’s class?
We are currently working on it! If you are interested, please email our team and we will include you in our waitlist staff@giborimclub.com
1.11 Can I participate in the class if I do not sign the class waiver?
No. It is mandatory that all adult students and parent guardians of youth students understand and sign the class waiver to participate in the class. You can review and sign the class waiver here.
2. Student Suitability and Participation
2.1 Am I too old for this?
We have dedicated students in their 70s and even 80s! Your age should not limit your ability to participate in and learn from our classes. While the classes involve physical activity and some exercise, our instructors and training partners tailor their approach to meet the specific needs of each student. Safety is our number one priority, ensuring that you have fun while continuing to grow and learn with each session.
2.2 Is my child too young for this?
With parental supervision and active engagement from children, we can start classes as early as six years old. At this age, a parent must be present during the class. We recommend scheduling a private at-home session to see if it’s a good fit for your child. For youth ages seven to fifteen, we offer weekly after-school group classes on Wednesdays. Feel free to book a class to give it a try!
2.3 I have no prior experience, can I join?
Absolutely! Most students begin their self-defense journey here at Giborim.
2.4 I have prior experience in martial arts. Is this still right for me?
Absolutely! We have students who have trained for 10 years in Krav Maga and others who hold black belts in karate. Students with strong fundamentals quickly adapt their techniques for unregulated street scenarios, where there are no gloves or referees. Additionally, you can benefit from training drills designed to de-escalate potential threats of violence and manage the legal implications of engaging in acts of self-defense.
For example, you may have the training to take an opponent to the ground and apply a choke hold. While this is fully legal in the context of Jiu-Jitsu or MMA sports, on the street, you could be liable for excessive force or even attempted murder. Giborim will help you adapt your training to keep you and your family safe outside the dojo. Book a class to try it out!
2.5 Can I participate if I follow strict modesty rules of orthodox Judaism?
Yes, of course. This is a women’s only class, and partner drills are practiced exclusively between women. We have fixed classes at two orthodox synagogues, so we are accustomed to accommodating students with these needs.
Occasionally, there is optional contact with our coach for training on certain safety maneuvers or to demonstrate a drill for the class. Coach Kalman consistently reminds the class that contact with the coach is not mandatory and is entirely optional. Students are always encouraged to do what they are comfortable with. We recommend that you come and participate in a class to see for yourself. We also want to emphasize that you can learn a lot just from observing the class.
2.6 I Have chronic injuries, can I still participate?
Everyone can benefit from learning fundamental safety techniques. You are not required to engage in activities that might aggravate your injuries, and we always encourage you to prioritize your health and safety. This is not a competition; we are a club focused on personal growth and the ability to train again the next day.
Our classes are structured into different segments, where we work on various parts of the body for different situations. Coach Kalman’s number one priority is safety. We start by practicing at a significantly reduced speed, intensity, and resistance to ensure that everyone can safely engage in the drills and take care of their partners.
We have students as young as 6 and women in their 70s. Our primary goal is for all students to return home to their families and go to work the next day in good health. Your age or a chronic injury should not discourage you from building strength and resilience!
2.7 I am not jewish, can I also participate?
Absolutely. Giborim is an inclusive club dedicated to supporting both the local Jewish community and its allies in the neighborhood. While confronting local antisemitic hate crime threats is always central to our mission, we firmly believe that a neighborhood that trains together is safer together. We prepare for a variety of universal scenarios that are applicable to everyone in the community. Come try it out!
3. Training & Philosophy
3.1 What are the credentials of a Giborim Instructor for Self-defense?
Coach Kalman has been training and competing in martial arts for over 30 years across the USA, Israel, and Brazil. He holds a black belt under Sensei Hidetaka Nishiyama and Sensei Avi Rokah. Additionally, he is certified in Machida Karate MMA and self-defense under UFC Champion Lyoto Machida and his coach, Chinzo Machida, and he trains regularly at their headquarters in Lomita, California. Coach Kalman is also certified in Beyond Krav Maga by Aaron Jannetti and is certified for Comprehensive Street Self-Defense by SWAT Police trainer Chad Lyman.
He has trained in Muay Thai under Enn Fairtex in Berkeley, California, and was a nationally ranked sabre fencer who competed in the Junior Olympics. Kalman lived in Brazil, where he trained under Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belts from the highly respected Alliance BJJ club. He continues to train regularly under Rubens “Cobrinha” Charles Maciel in Hollywood and has also trained in MMA Wrestling under top contender Vlad “the Janitor” Matyushenko.
In addition to his extensive martial arts and self-defense background, Coach Kalman is insured for self-defense training and is certified in CPR and First Aid for adults and children by the American Heart Association.
3.2 What is the difference between Giborim and boxing?
Boxing is a traditional Western martial art and a regulated combat sport that uses gloves. Giborim employs fundamental boxing principles such as timing, explosive punching power, combination punches, and various guards and defensive techniques, but it is adapted for the context of bare-knuckle fighting. Additionally, Giborim incorporates MMA techniques that are illegal in boxing, including elbow strikes and knee strikes.
The focus of Giborim is on self-defense applications where there is no referee, and individuals must face legal consequences for engaging in self-defense. While boxing is an effective martial art on its own, Giborim enhances your boxing skills by providing new tools and applications for real-world scenarios. Come try it out!
3.3 What is the difference between Giborim and Krav Maga
Krav Maga and Giborim share significant similarities in training for self-defense scenarios. Krav Maga was developed to provide Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) recruits with survival training for situations where they lose their weapon or run out of ammunition. A key focus of Krav Maga is disarming enemy combatants armed with knives, rifles, or pistols.
On the other hand, Giborim emphasizes civilian self-defense. It prioritizes skills in de-escalation and defending against attackers who invade personal space and threaten with physical aggression, such as punches and grabs. Giborim aims to create a survival advantage for individuals who may be at a disadvantage, such as women in encounters with men or those needing to fend off bullies on the street.
Giborim does not identify as a martial art; instead, it is an evolving set of easy-to-learn techniques derived from various martial arts, designed to enhance personal safety and minimize both physical and legal risks during street confrontations. The program incorporates fundamental techniques from Karate, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), Muay Thai, and Krav Maga, applying them to common self-defense situations that people encounter in their neighborhoods. Come try it out!
3.4 What is the difference between Giborim and Karate?
Karate and Giborim share significant overlaps in training for self-defense scenarios. Karate is a Japanese martial art that has evolved over time to provide a streamlined method for teaching military personnel and university students powerful and fast hand-to-hand combat techniques. It also incorporates a fun and competitive aspect through its sports kumite rules.
In contrast, Giborim focuses on civilian self-defense, emphasizing skills in de-escalation and defending against attackers who invade one's personal space and pose threats with physical aggression. Giborim aims to create a survival advantage for individuals who may be smaller or in situations such as female vs. male confrontations, and it helps to combat bullying on the streets.
Giborim does not consider itself a traditional martial art; instead, it is an evolving set of easy-to-learn techniques adapted from various martial arts, designed to enhance personal safety while minimizing physical and legal risks in threatening situations. Giborim incorporates fundamental techniques from Karate, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), Muay Thai, and Krav Maga, applying them to common self-defense scenarios faced in our neighborhoods. Come try it out!
3.5 What is the difference between Giborim and Brazilian Jiu jitsu, BJJ?
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) and Giborim share significant overlaps in training for self-defense situations. BJJ was developed to provide a grappling advantage in close-range fighting, particularly when the encounter goes to the ground. It emphasizes techniques for escaping bad positions, establishing dominant control, breaking grips, countering chokes, standing back up, and executing chokes, arm locks, and wrist locks.
On the other hand, Giborim focuses on civilian self-defense, prioritizing de-escalation and defending against attackers who invade personal space and threaten with physical aggression. Its goal is to create a survival advantage for individuals who may be at a disadvantage due to size, such as in scenarios involving female versus male encounters, or to help people defend against bullies on the street and schoolyard.
Giborim does not claim to be a formal martial art; rather, it is an evolving set of easy-to-learn techniques borrowed from various martial arts. These techniques are designed to enhance survival and reduce both physical and legal risks when facing threats in everyday environments. Giborim incorporates fundamental techniques from Karate, BJJ/grappling, Muay Thai, and Krav Maga, applying them to common self-defense scenarios encountered in our neighborhoods. Come try it out!
4. Membership and Pricing
4.1 How to book a drop in class?
It's easy! Just click here to book a class for yourself or a friend today. If you can't attend the class on the date you selected, your credit will be valid for 90 days from the purchase date.
4.2 Is there a discount for families?
We offer family discounts and can make special arrangements for private family sessions at home around Los Angeles. The price per participant is significantly reduced when you include another family member in your private session. Our most successful students are families who train together, motivate each other, and serve as drill partners between classes. We strongly encourage you to start training as a family to achieve faster results.
4.3 What are the benefits of the membership over drop-in classes?
With a monthly membership, you receive over a 14% discount per class and the convenience of no longer needing to book each class in advance. If a month has five Wednesdays, you will also receive a bonus class at no extra cost. You can cancel your membership at any time. Additionally, during weeks that coincide with Jewish holidays, Coach Kalman offers make-up group sessions. Active monthly members also receive exclusive 30% off discounts on private sessions
4.4 Do you offer group rates?
Our weekly group classes at YINBH are affordably priced to ensure that our curriculum is accessible to everyone. Many of our students are mothers and their daughters! Occasionally, we offer additional discounts for families on our memberships.
For private classes, we provide significant discounts based on the number of participants from the same household. This is particularly beneficial for families with 2-3 children who wish to share a one-hour class after school. Please call us to discuss how we can accommodate your family's needs.
4.5 Do you handle when Yom tov falls on the same day as a group class?
We offer makeup sessions on days that do not conflict with Yom Tov, either the same week or the following week. Monthly members also receive a discount for private sessions that can be booked to make up for missed training. Come try it out!
4.6 What types of payment do you accept?
Our site accepts major credit cards. Additionally, Venmo and Zelle may be used in certain situations. For custom events, checks and cash might also be accepted. Come try it out!
4.7 Do you offer class cancelations and refunds?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance to rebook without losing your class credit. If you are unable to attend a scheduled group class, please notify us via email, and you can apply that credit to any class within 90 days of the purchase date. If you have remaining class credits that you are unable to use, please contact us via email. We can convert them into a gift certificate valid for 90 days from the date of issue, which you can share with friends and family. Please note that classes are non-refundable and non-transferable.
5. Referral Program
5.1 Is there a referral program? Yes! We offer a referral program as our way of saying thank you for spreading the word. When you refer a friend, you will receive a free group class once they attend their first group session or a free private class after they book their first private session. You’ll earn one free class per person you refer.
Already have a membership? No problem! Your class credit can be applied toward gift cards, upgrading your plan, or even bringing a friend to class.
Terms & Conditions:
The referred student must mention your name at the time of purchase.
Referrals apply only to new students who have never attended a Giborim class or event.
One free class per referral; limited to one per person.
Thank-you credits are valid for 30 days from the date of issue.
6. Safety
6.1 Is Giborim Licensed and insured ?
In addition to his martial arts self-defense background, Coach Kalman is insured for self-defense training and is certified in CPR and First Aid for both adults and children by the American Heart Association and the American Red Cross.
6.2 Is the coach certified in CPR and first aide for adults?
Yes, this is under the guidelines of both the American Heart Association and the Red Cross.
6.3 Is the coach certified in CPR and first aide for children?
Yes, under the American Heart Association.
Any other questions? Call us or email us at staff@giborimclub.com