So you've been attending Krav Maga sessions for a while and you feel confident that you can at least attempt a grading?
In this blog I’ll quickly highlight some of the key considerations to make before and during your preparation for the grading.Preparing for a Krav Maga grading is a crucial part of progressing in your training. Grading tests your proficiency in techniques and provides a clear benchmark for your development.
Our aim at KMW is to provide a student with the ability to prevail in potentially life threatening situations.
A patch or belt is no true indication of how well a student will achieve that. Having said that, the curriculum/grading system that IKMF and many other organisations have in place provides the student with a logical, focused and systematic approach to learning core material which in turn makes the process of learning how to defend oneself easier.
Typically, the Krav Maga grading system is divided into 3 main categories; Practitioner, Graduate and Expert Levels with each step building on the last, ensuring students develop both physically and mentally.
Successfully completing a grading is not just about earning a patch or rank; it’s about pushing yourself beyond your limits and growing as a practitioner.
As a rough guideline, most Krav Maga students are ready for the level 1 test after 3-6 months (mandatory minimum) and thereafter every 6 months (subject to regular and intensive training). IKMF gradings are conducted by expert members of the IKMF global training team.
While it's not mandatory to grade, many students choose to as a way to challenge themselves, set goals, and measure their skills. It offers a unique training experience, often more intense than regular classes, and gives students the chance to interact with practitioners from other schools.
The grading system ranges from Practitioner to Expert levels.
Each level has its own badges of merit which are colour coded as described:
Practioner Level (P1-P5) | These are practitioner grading levels for Krav Maga students. The Students’ uniforms have white trim & logos on black attire. Their grading patches are gold with black bars representing their level i.e. 2 bar = Practitioner Level 2 (P2). The Practitioner Levels of Krav Maga are the core of the system. Students learn how to defend against the most common attacks, as well as building on their fighting skills and learning how to avoid a situation or what to do after a confrontation. Training also improves fitness, strength, flexibility and mental determination. |
Graduate Level (G1-G5) | These are mainly Krav Maga instructors who wear red trim & logos on black attire. There may also be G level students who have not taken the instructor’s certification, thus don’t wear red trimmed uniforms. The grading patches are cobalt blue with black bars representing their level i.e. 1 bar = Graduate Level 1 (G1). Students are eligible to move into the Graduate program 6 months after completing their P5 grade. More advanced skills are taught at G level, including dealing with more complicated situations. Students are expected to have a full understanding of all the P grades and continue to keep those skills at a high level whilst progressing through the Graduate program. |
Expert Level (E1-E5) | These are high level instructors. Usually specialising or assisting in other areas such as Police, Special Units or Military instruction, in addition to their civilian qualification. Expert Instructors’ uniforms have gold trim & logos. Their grading patches are gold with red bars. |
12 Weeks Before Grading – Ideal Time to Start
Let me make one important point here - there are no shortcuts! If you want to not only succeed but truly excel you need to put the work in. Which takes time. You can’t cram for a grading.
Twelve weeks out is the optimal time to start preparing for your grading. This period allows you to focus on both mastering the curriculum and improving your physical conditioning.
Ask your instructor for your syllabus: The syllabus for each level outlines specific techniques that you'll be tested on, so attending classes regularly is essential to ensure you are familiar with all requirements.
Train More: If you only attend one class per week start attending two - you’ll see a massive difference.If your school offers syllabus workshops or intensive classes, make these a priority in your training schedule.
IKMF students can participate in classes, testing or workshops/seminars worldwide where they see the IKMF logo by simply showing their IKMF Passport, which they receive after taking their first test.
Find a Grading Partner: I can’t stress how important it can be to train and test with someone you know and train with regularly. Completing the preparation and grading together can remove 50% of the stress involved in testing. It is always good to have some who will give you a kick up the bum if you're not fully motivated, as well as bring you back to your calmer self when you're stressed out.
Improve Your Cardio: Physically, Krav Maga gradings are demanding, often lasting several hours, so it's important to build up your stamina and strength. Include extra fitness sessions, such as bag work, strength conditioning, or cardio, into your routine. Training consecutively for extended periods will simulate the endurance needed for the grading.
Mental preparation is also key, so start practising mindfulness techniques for visualising yourself performing well under pressure.
1 Week Before Grading – Light Revision and Stretching:
Your instructor will have green-lighted you as ready to go so ensure you book your place, know the location times etc.
One week before the grading, your focus should shift from learning new material to revising what you already know. By this point, you should have a solid understanding of the syllabus, so use the week for light revision, polishing up any techniques you're unsure about, and addressing any last-minute questions with your instructor.
Your training sessions should be lighter to avoid overexertion or injury. Prioritise stretching, mobility exercises, and practising techniques with a focus on precision rather than power.
This will keep your body loose and ready while also reinforcing correct form and technique.Also practise mental visualisation of the techniques if you can.
Get your stuff together: Know what the uniform and kit requirements are for the grading. Ensure you look the part - you are representing your club.
The Night Before Grading
The night before the grading, it’s important to prioritise rest and recovery. Avoid intense physical activity, and instead focus on mental preparation. A good night’s sleep is essential for optimal performance, so aim for at least 8 hours of rest. Mentally, run through the techniques in your head, visualising yourself executing them correctly. Positive visualisation can help reduce anxiety and boost your confidence.
Avoid heavy meals or alcohol the night before. Opt for balanced, nutritious food that will fuel your body for the big day. Hydration is equally important, so ensure you drink plenty of water.
Day of Grading
On the day of the grading, arrive early with all necessary equipment –
Your IKMF passport (P2 and above),
Appropriate uniform,
Shin guards
Boxing gloves
Mouth and groin guards.
It’s also wise to bring snacks like bananas or energy bars and plenty of water, as the grading will be physically exhausting with minimal breaks.
During the grading, focus on giving your best effort. Gradings are designed to push you physically and mentally, but your instructors are looking for determination and perseverance, not perfection. When you get tired, remember that your ability to keep going is what’s being tested. Maintain a positive attitude, and if you’ve done the work in the lead-up to the grading, trust in your preparation.
Post Grading
You’ve got the certificate, taken all the photos and thanked everyone. Flying high with a sense of self accomplishment. And why not? You deserve it!
Now the grading is complete, take time to recover. Your body will need rest, and activities like stretching, yoga, or soaking in hot or cold baths can aid in your recovery. Reflect on your performance and any feedback from your instructors. Whether you pass or not, the experience is invaluable for your growth in Krav Maga.
Celebrate the effort you put in, regardless of the outcome.
Gradings are designed to challenge you, and participating in one is an achievement in itself.
Best of Luck. Remember to scan!
Harj Sohal @ KMW
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