OWINGS MILLS, Md. -- Those seeking self-defense lessons or even just a good workout may find interest in tapping into basic training techniques developed for the Israeli military.

WBAL-TV 11 Health Alert reporter Donna Hamilton recently tried Krav Maga, which is taught to law enforcement personnel throughout the United States.

Tzviel "B.K." Blankchtein, the general manager of Krav Maga in Owings Mills, said while you do learn to defend yourself, you will also get one heck of a workout.

"You have 18-year-old kids going into the military, and they have to able to defend themselves in real-life situations pretty quickly. They don't have years to spend on learning martial arts," he said.

Krav Maga literally means "combat contact" and it's based on human instinctive movements.

"Half of the membership comes for fitness, half for self-defense. Regardless, you're going to get both," Blankchtein said.

Harel Turkel started Krav Maga courses six months ago.

"I've worked out six or seven years. This workout uses sprints, pushups, working with partners. It's like having a personal trainer at all times, it's phenomenal," he said.

The facility also has a gym replete with cardio machines and various weights and lifting machines. For Olga Khazanova, Krav Maga provides an energy source and the confidence that she can handle herself.

"I might work to 11 p.m. to 12 at night, you have to watch your back," she said.

The training demonstrates how it feels to be hit, so you will not be so shocked if it does happen. Additionally, the training also provides how it feels like to hit someone -- and most people start off a little timid.

A new facility opens this weekend in Columbia.

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