Katalyst Krav Maga

I started here as a total beginner a few months ago and have absolutely loved my experience. Everyone - the instructors and members, both - are so welcoming, which made it easy to get over my anxiety and feel comfortable right away. Each lesson is taught in a way that’s accessible and intuitive, even for beginners. It has been really rewarding for me to see an improvement in self-defense skills that are useful for my safety and that help build my confidence as a younger woman. The classes and the people in them are so energetic and a lot of fun, and attending them is the highlight of my day. I highly recommend joining!

I love it so much!!! Not once did I ever feel like I didn't belong. Everyone that works there is amazing. They always have helpful suggestions for any questions I have ever asked. All around it is a very fluid environment that makes me feel like I have been going there for years. I tell everyone I know about them and how much fun I have learning how to protect myself.

I decided to take self-defense so I would never have to live in fear. From the moment I walked into Katalyst, I was welcomed with open arms by the teachers and mentors. The owners, David and Sarah, are truly exceptional—warm, dedicated, and deeply involved in every aspect of the experience. Although the classes aren’t strictly step-by-step, the instructors are incredibly patient and make sure everyone understands the curriculum. Coach David, Sarah, Asia, and Heidi have all made a lasting impact on me. Through both their words and actions, they show how deeply they care about each student's growth. Since I began training at Katalyst, I’ve gained confidence, developed stronger discipline, and significantly improved my stamina. The community here feels like a family—everyone supports and uplifts one another. If I had found the courage to begin self-defense training sooner, I absolutely would have. But I’m so grateful I found Katalyst now. It’s changed me for the better.

I can’t recommend Katalyst enough. From the moment I first walked in back in March 2024, I knew I had found something special. David and his group of homegrown student-instructors, welcomed me that day, set the tone for what became an unforgettable experience. I've never had a better martial arts—or overall gym—experience in my life. The community at Katalyst is second to none. The coaches, are not only highly skilled but also incredibly supportive. They truly invest in their students' growth, and the encouraged partnering of beginners with more experienced members during drills ensures that effective teaching can result in an effective curriculum for a beginner and an opportunity for an experienced practician to sharpen their skills. Every training session felt like a chance to learn something new and challenge myself, no matter how hectic life outside the gym got. Commuting from NC, balancing night school and work—it wasn’t always easy, but it was always worth it. Now, due to a work relocation out of state, I am unfortunately away from Katalyst. While I’ll miss it, I’m so thankful for the time I had there. If you’re looking for a gym where you’ll not only grow in your martial arts journey but also become part of a truly empowering and welcoming community, Katalyst is the place. They’ve earned my highest rating—five stars, no question. Thank you, David and everybody at Katalyst!

I’ve been training with David for over a year. Not only has the community been such a blessing to me, but the training itself has improved my self-confidence, posture, and overall mentality towards life. I believe this is due to David & Sara’s values when running their business. For instance, classes include more than martial arts defensive tactics; they include self-awareness, situational awareness, “Stop the Bleed” courses, team building, Virginia’s laws around self-defense, and basic anatomy. He values ensuring students understand the “why” behind what he does. During our class recap, he explains his methods of teaching and how his personal learning experiences contribute to who he is as an instructor and what he teaches in the gym. I’m so thankful for the community and instructors at Katalyst!