Krav Maga Self-Defense Program in Crown Heights Launches Boys Division, Following Successful Separate Men’s & Women’s Classes

After a series of antisemitic attacks in New York during the summer of 2019, Guardian Self Defense (GSD) was created. Founder Joe Richards brought together community members, including volunteers from Crown Heights Shomrim, to organize weekly Krav Maga–based self-defense sessions with a clear mission: empower everyday people with practical tools to protect themselves and each other.

“GSD teaches students how to become their own first responders. Krav Maga is the simplest and most effective method of self-defense and violence prevention, sharpening natural instincts to react quickly to danger,” Joe Richard explained.

Krav Maga, meaning “Contact Combat,” teaches real-world self-defense skills alongside situational awareness, confidence, and improved fitness. GSD’s instructors are trained under Traditional Krav Maga (TKM) New York, creating a highly skilled team dedicated to strengthening our community. Over the past five years, GSD has trained more than 500 men and women, across multiple locations, with measurable impact:

– 98% of students reported feeling more confident protecting themselves

– 91% said they were more inclined to help protect Jews if witnessing an attack

GSD is not a gym—it is a nonprofit initiative focused on community safety, empowerment, and preparedness.

Introducing TKM Brooklyn — A New Crown Heights Krav Maga School

After years of collaboration between GSD and Traditional Krav Maga New York, we are proud to launch TKM Brooklyn, a dedicated training studio serving the Crown Heights community. The first programs begin with boys ages 8–14, with girls’ programs coming soon.

TKM Brooklyn brings the same proven approach and expert instruction you know from GSD, now designed specifically for youth. Students develop:

– Practical self-defense skills
– Physical fitness and conditioning
– Confidence, resilience, and situational awareness

“Our long-term goal is to offer programs for all ages, including separate classes for boys and girls,” says Ben Cousin, founder and instructor at TKM Brooklyn. “It’s time to teach our youth how to defend themselves and protect others. We hope they never need it, but having the skills, awareness, and confidence matters.”

Join the Movement

Kids (TKM Brooklyn)

For questions, email: Brooklyntkm@gmail.com

Adults (GSD) — Separate Men’s & Women’s Classes

GSD runs three-month training cycles on Sunday evenings at Crunch Crown Heights. No experience necessary.

– Women’s Program: apply at gsdw.gymdesk.com
– Men’s Program: apply at gsd.gymdesk.com

Next cycle begins December 28th – March 22nd.

For questions, email: membership@gsdadvisers.com