GET HOME SAFE.
We’re Direct Krav Maga
We work with businesses, organisations and independent creatives who truly value safety and wellbeing. Our goal is to offer training that could save lives.No frills. No fancy tricks. Direct, real-world training - applicable from the very first session.
We understand the threats you face
Solo travel to unfamiliar locations, long shifts, arriving and leaving alone, carrying expensive equipment, working with (or being) high-profile talent, traveling home after late finishes.Our trauma-informed training is for everybody and designed to be applicable form the very first session to help you and your loved ones get home safe. Our plans are bespoke for you as an individual and tailored to your personal requirements, experience and goals. 
New Residency at Playhouse East
Brand new group, introductory sessions coming to Playhouse East.
Playhouse East and Actors East members and affiliates - register now to join our (always free), introductory group sessions.
Start your self defence journey now
Three ways to train. One goal…
The fastest way to progress. Private sessions are tailored entirely to your schedule, your goals and your starting point - whether you're a complete beginner or returning to training after a break. You'll cover awareness, real-world technique and the mindset that makes all the difference, at a pace that works for you.
Ideal for professionals with unpredictable schedules, anyone who prefers to learn without an audience, or those who want to get up to speed quickly before joining a group.
One-to-one - Built around you
Semi-private - Train with people you trust
The most popular option. Semi-private sessions work brilliantly for friends, partners, colleagues or flatmates who want to train together - combining the focus of a private session with the energy of training with someone you know.
You'll learn faster, push each other harder, and split the cost. The session is still tailored to the group - not a generic class - so you get genuine instruction, not just supervision.
Groups of 2-6 · Flexible scheduling · Bring friends or meet likeminded people
Free sessions Playhouse East - For the community
Free fortnightly sessions open to everyone - no experience, no kit, no commitment required. This is the best way to try Krav Maga for the first time, meet the community and understand whether training is for you.
Sessions cover the foundations: situational awareness, personal safety principles and practical technique you can apply from the very first class. Currently running at Playhouse East, Haggerston.
Free · Every two weeks · Playhouse East, East London
Corporate and organisations - Safety training for your people
Personal safety matters at work - particularly in industries where late nights, solo travel and unfamiliar locations are the norm. We design and deliver bespoke workshops for businesses, production companies, creative agencies, media organisations and professional teams of all sizes.
Sessions can run as a one-off workshops, a series or an ongoing staff wellbeing programmes. We handle everything - all you need to do is tell us who we're training and what matters most to them.
Meet the founder
Hi, I’m Ainsley - a black belt in Krav Maga and the lead instructor of Direct Krav Maga.
I’m also a media professional and over the past 15 years have produced and directed entertainment and comedy TV series for broadcasters and platforms including BBC, ITV, Amazon Prime, Spotify, Channel 4. I also specialise in branded content and have created content for brands including; Red Bull, Vodafone, Continental, Currys, Compare The Market, eBay.
I’ve trained Krav Maga for over a decade along with other disciplines including; Muay Thai, Kickboxing, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and MMA.
We established DKM as a response to the increasing levels of threats and violence being faced and as a method of training that works for EVERYBODY.
Working as a creative around the UK and internationally, I understand the challenges of our fast paced industries and have witnessed the dangers and threats creatives and professionals face first hand.
Personally, self defence training has had a profound impact on my life. From confidence, to self esteem, to discipline, to helping with mental health wellbeing and physical fitness - the training has made huge improvements to my relationships, friendships and creative career.