READY TO LEVEL UP YOUR COACHING?
Become an MMA Self Defence Instructor and level up on what you offer
Book your spot on our self defence instructor course below and begin offering self defence classes in your gym or martial arts area.
Gain an official certification from the:
* MMA Self Defense Federation.
* MMA Krav Maga Federation.
* British Combat Association
* World Combat Association
* British Karate Combat Association
Our course provides step by step instruction, allowing you to create a blueprint to transfer the self defence techniques and mindsets effectively and efficiently.
Self defence classes have been a staple in the martial arts industry for years, however there has never been a clear cut programm for instructing and relaying the information.
This is where our course changes this.
Self Defence Instructor Course
Is your gym currently offering MMA, Boxing, BJJ or traditional martial arts? These sports and martial arts are perfect for the demographics who want to pursue sporting endeavours.
But what about those who just want to learn some practical self defence. Is putting this person in a cage in a MMA class really the best fit for them? In fact, there are a lot people that would stay away from a martial arts Gym for exactly those reasons.
Providing a Self Defence Class where people don’t feel that they will be having to fight anybody but will learn to defend themselves, grow their confidence and self esteem is a great way of building a whole new community of people for your gym.
This course will offer specific self defence classes with a structured syllabus, allowing you to cater to everyone in your community.
Gain New Certification
Gain certification accredited with the MMA Self Defence Federation, MMA Krav Maga Federation, British Combat Association, World Combat Association and get new clients by bolstering your gyms offerings.
Learn the skills of instructing
Our course will teach you how to teach the syllabus. Allowing you to become a proficient instructor in no time.
Gain access to our Community
Alongside the practical skills you will have access to our instructors and their philosophies forever, allowing your skills to continue to grow.
About Your Instructor; Ricky Manetta
Ricky Manetta is the Founder and Senior Instructor of MMA Self Defence & MMA Krav Maga, bringing over 30 years of martial arts expertise to his comprehensive self-defence training programs.
His martial arts journey began at the age of 9, and since then, he has trained extensively across multiple disciplines, seeking instruction from some of the world’s top martial artists. This commitment to excellence has shaped Ricky’s open-minded and adaptive approach to self-defence, ensuring that his techniques remain relevant and effective.
Today, Ricky leads a network of affiliated MMA Self Defence & MMA Krav Maga instructors and clubs across London and the surrounding counties, helping individuals of all backgrounds master self-defence and combat techniques.
His core philosophy, “less is more,” underpins his teaching, focusing on simplicity and effectiveness in the art of confrontation and self-defence.
Key Accomplishments:
- Innovative Teaching: Creator of a best-selling self-defence iPhone app, which reached #1 in 12 countries.
- Corporate Training: Trusted by organisations like the Bank of England, Nuffield Health and Financial Conduct Authority to deliver tailored self-defence and awareness programmes.
High-Profile Roles:
- Head Coordinator for the UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship) worldwide for 14 Years
- Key security team leader for major events, including the Virgin London Marathon and the 2012 London Olympics.
- Industry Expertise: Self-defence instructor for leading trade organisations, including the LTDA (London Taxi Drivers Association) and Dial-A-Cab, serving thousands of member
- Community Impact: Active in schools, promoting his Anti-bullying, Meditation,Mindfulness and self Defence Campaign, “Humanettiq” and teaching workplace safety and awareness.
- Media Recognition: Featured for his expertise in outlets like London Tonight News, OK Magazine, Evening Standard, and Martial Arts Illustrated.
- Has had two short programs dedicated to him and his work with martial arts and Anti Bullying featured on the BBC, Amazing humans and Crimewatch.
Ricky’s programs blend cutting-edge MMA techniques with practical self-defence strategies, making them suitable for both beginners and advanced practitioners.
Whether training individuals, corporate teams, or law enforcement, Ricky is passionate about empowering others with the skills and confidence to protect themselves and others.
For a deeper look into Ricky’s journey, read his featured article in Martial Arts Illustrated.
My Journey – From Martial Arts to Real-World Self-Defence
Hi, I’m glad you’re here — because it was not that long ago, I was in the same place you’re in now!
I have been involved in Martial Arts for 35 years and started teaching over 20 years ago. I’ve trained and taught in boxing, grappling, MMA — you name it. But over time, I realised something was missing. While martial arts gave me discipline and confidence, what really clicked for me was helping everyday people feel safe, strong, and prepared in the real world. That’s what led me to focus on self-defence.
I did instructor courses with several different instructors some good and some not so and eventually was lucky to train under Itay Gil to get an idea of what real world Self defence looked like.
I had the opportunities to join a few different federations, but I knew my goal was different due to my life and my background. I recognised what people really needed for their physical mental and spiritual growth. I just knew that self-defence needed to be more visible, more available and taught in a way that was modern, realistic, and built on solid martial arts foundations.
That’s how this course was born. It’s always been more than just an instructor certification — it’s a platform to build something of your own, whether that’s part-time, full-time, or simply a way to give back to your community. To date, dozens of instructors have come through this journey, and it’s been incredible to watch them thrive. Some have launched their own schools, others are running successful private lesson businesses, and many are out there making a real impact in their own unique ways. Whatever path you choose, I’ll be in your corner.
You’re Not Alone on This Journey
Whether you want to affiliate with us and teach under the MMA Self-Defence banner, or you’re planning to go completely independent with your own brand, we are here to support you. You’ll have access to our experience, guidance, and resources — not just during the course, but for the long run.
For Gyms – This Could Be a Game-Changer
If you run a gym that mainly offers weights or fitness, adding a self-defence class can open your doors to a whole new group of people — people who may never have stepped into your space before, but are actively looking for something exactly like this.
And if you’re a martial arts gym that already teaches boxing, BJJ, MMA, or kickboxing — but don’t currently offer a structured self-defence program — this is your opportunity. Some of your current instructors can get certified and become your in-house MMA Self-Defence Coaches, bringing new energy and income into your space. Also perfect if they already teach private lessons to add to their arsenal.
They can stay connected to my program, or go on to build yours or their own brand with merchandise, workshops, and their own following. The flexibility is there — and I’ll support either path.
Start Small or Go Big — It’s Your Call
Whether you’re looking to run a few classes a week, build a side hustle, or launch a full-blown business, this course gives you the tools to do it. You don’t need to have it all figured out right now — you just need to start.
Let’s bring real, effective self-defence to more people — and make it something that truly changes lives, including your own.
Level up your gym's offerings.
Incorporating new self defence classes, allowing you to reach a new demographic in your area.
BECOME CERTIFIED
Gain an official instructor certificate from the MMA Self Defence & MMA Krav Maga Federation.
TRUSTED INSTRUCTORS
Our instructors have been there and done it at the highest level.
BUILD YOUR GYM
Start building the classes in your gym and reaching new demographics.
100% QUALITY GUARANTEE
Finishing the course you will be ready to begin instructing immediately.
Instructor Success Stories
Gary James
MMA Self Defence Instructor
Achievements:
- 5th Dan Shotokan Karate Instructor
- Level 2 MMA Self Defence Instructor
- 40 Years Martial Arts Experience
Paul Norton
MMA Self Defence Instructor
Achievements:
- Founder Of Strike Wisdom
- Striking Coach
- Self-employed through instructing
- Self-employed through instructing
JAZZ SINGH
MMA Fighter
Achievements:
- Founder of wHEALTH Programme
- Kick Boxing Instructor
- Personal Trainer
- Self-employed through instructing
Mark Ebulue
MMA Self Defence Instructor
Achievements:
- Close Protection Operative
- Actor & Voice Actor
- Fight Choreographer
- Self-employed through instructing
The MMA Self Defence Instructor Course
What will you learn? Through this intensive course you will learn the core elements of MMA Self Defence. Packed with real world scenarios and cutting edge techniques, you will begin to formulate a complete self defence playbook which you will be able to translate to your students.
In this course, you’ll gain a solid understanding of all the techniques you’ll be teaching your future students. You’ll also learn how to provide clear, supportive feedback—offering corrections in a way that builds confidence and encourages growth.
Our ultimate goal, as we always say, is to empower students to feel so confident in their abilities that they can choose to walk away.
Learn. Teach. Lead. Become a Certified Self-Defence Instructor.
This course is not just about learning self-defence techniques—it’s a complete, transformative experience that equips you to teach, inspire, and run your own successful self-defence programs. Whether you’re looking to give back to your community, start your own business, or build a fulfilling career, this course provides everything you need to achieve your goals.
Self Defence Techniques
Weapon & Knife Defence
Stand Up Grappling
Striking & Defence
Takedown & Floor Defence
Avoidance & Awareness
Situational Awareness
Instructing Framework
What's in the Syllabus?
Master Critical Street Self-Defence Techniques
Our syllabus focuses on teaching the most practical and effective self-defence skills, including:
All Major Tactical Street DefenceTechniques
• Have an answer to all the major street attacks - Punches, kicks, Head butts - Strangles - Headlocks - Wrist, Tee Shirt and hair Grabs -
Weapon Defence:
• Learn how to handle threats involving - Knives - Bottles - Baseball Bats, and other common street weapons.
Takedown and Floor Defence:
• Discover how to escape dangerous situations, defend against takedowns, and learn escapes to the majot threats on the floor - Ground and Pound - The Mount, Side Mount and how to to get back on your feet quickly.
Avoidance & Awareness:
• Understand how to de-escalate confrontations and avoid dangerous situations before they occur—the most valuable self-defence skill of all.
Choke Defences:
• We all recognise how dangerous chokes are so we give you real defences to all the major threats : Rear Naked Choke - Guilotine Choke and Arm Triangle Choke.
Create and teach your own programmes
This course goes beyond teaching self-defence techniques. You’ll learn how to:
• Develop your own syllabus and lesson plans tailored to specific groups.
• Design specialised courses, such as:
• Female-Only Self-Defence Workshops
• Weapon Defence Courses to address the increasing threat of knife crime.
• Community Programs focused on empowering individuals of all ages.
Build a thriving Business.
We don’t just train you to teach—we train you to succeed. You’ll gain the knowledge and tools to:
• Set up your own classes and workshops.
• Offer martial arts insurance, club memberships, and merchandise to grow your income.
• Run your programs as a business, giving you the freedom to work part-time or full-time while shaping your own future.
Why this course is different.
This isn’t just a one-time course—it’s a long-term investment in yourself, your community, and your career. You’ll walk away with:
COMPREHENSIVE SKILLS
Learn practical, proven self-defence techniques alongside the art of teaching and inspiring others.
PROFESSIONAL RECOGNITION
Become a certified and registered instructor under the MMA Self-Defence Organisation, with credentials recognised by both the British Combat Association and the World Combat Association.
LIMITLESS OPPORTUNITIES
Whether you want to teach part-time for fun, build a full-time career, or make a difference in your community, this course gives you the tools to succeed.
A LASTING IMPACT
Help others feel safer, more confident, and better prepared to handle life’s challenges while building a rewarding career for yourself.
Why Choose MMA Krav Maga
REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD CHOOSE US
if you are serious about becoming an instructor, you have probably checked out a few different providers. Here are some reasons why MMA Krav Maga is the right one for you.
1.
MODERN MMA + KRAV MAGA – YOUR WAY
We don’t teach legacy drills from the 90s. Our system fuses modern MMA techniques—striking, takedowns, clinch work, and ground defense—with street-proven Krav Maga.
This makes your teaching more relevant, realistic, and marketable in today’s evolving martial arts and self-defense world.
You can stay linked to us or create your own club and Brand.
Our focus is to help you become the best Instructor you can your future and what you see for yourself belongs to you.
2.
TIME TRAINING EFFICIENT - FAST TRACK CERTIFICATION
Our instructor programs are designed for maximum efficiency without compromising quality. You’ll gain high-level skills and certifications in a streamlined format that gets you teaching faster—and smarter.
3.
AFFORDABLE, TRANSPARENT, WORTH EVERY PENNY
We believe in high value without the hype. Our pricing is competitive, with no hidden fees and no inflated egos. You’ll walk away with real skills, real support, and a clear plan to build a thriving program.
4.
REAL - WORLD, PRESSURE TESTED TEACHING
We don’t certify theory—only action. You’ll learn how to coach students under stress, using live drills, resistance training and realistic fight scenarios.
This builds instructors who don’t just teach—they transform lives.
5.
FULL INSTRUCTOR SUPPORT– FROM THE MATS TO MARKETING
Most instructor courses leave you on your own once the certificate is in hand. We don’t. At MMA Krav Maga Instructor Courses, we’re committed to your long-term success—not just passing you through a weekend course.
We provide a complete support system so you can grow a real business, build a loyal student base, and become a respected figure in your community.
All instructors receive a full package of done-for-you resources, including:
- Student waiver & registration templates
- Class structure blueprints (beginner to advanced)
- Grading syllabus and criteria
- Progress tracking sheets
- Promotional graphics and flyers
6.
BUSINESS BLUEPRINT
More Than a Certification – Build Your Own Martial Arts Business
Becoming a certified instructor with us isn’t just about self-defense—it’s about financial freedom and career growth.
Whether you want to go full-time or keep it as a profitable side hustle, our program shows you how to:
• ✅ Run your own classes (group, 1-to-1, or corporate)
• ✅ Offer private lessons at a premium rate
• ✅ Host seminars and bootcamps in your local area
• ✅ Sell branded merchandise (gloves, shirts, hoodies)
• ✅ Earn recurring income through grading fees
• ✅ Bundle insurance and membership packages for your students
You’re not just learning how to teach—you’re learning how to launch and grow a self-defense business with real earning potential.
7.
VERSATILE INSTRUCTOR TRAINING ADAPTABLE ACROSS ALL MARKETS
Our adaptable training model works whether you’re teaching civilians, security professionals, youth programs, or private clients.
We’ll show you how to tailor your instruction to any environment or audience.
8.
INSTRUCTOR PROGRESSION PATHWAY:
Once you’ve completed your MMA Krav Maga Instructor Certification, you’ll be officially recognised as a Registered Instructor under our federation and the World CombatAssociation. But that’s just the beginning.
To continue developing your skills—and stand out as a top-level coach—you’ll have the opportunity to take part in our exclusive Bolt-On Instructor Courses.
: Control & Restraints
: Close-Quarter Knife Defence & Control
: Weapons Defence and Disarm Tactics
: Multiple Attacker
Each bolt-on course focuses on a specialised area of real-world self-defence, helping you:
- Sharpen your teaching toolkit
- Expand your offerings to students
- Progress toward Advanced and eventually Senior Instructor status
Who is the course for?
This course is ideal for:
• Martial arts enthusiasts who want to share their passion with others.
• Gyms who would like to add a Self-Defence Class to the timetable and attract a new audience who may not normally use their facility. It’s a smart way to diversify your offerings and bring in fresh members seeking practical, real-world training.
• Professionals looking to build a second, part time income or full-time business in self-defence.
• Anyone driven to make a positive impact by teaching life-saving skills.
When you complete this course, you’ll have:
• The skills to teach self-defence to a wide range of audiences.
• Confidence to start and grow your own classes or workshops.
• Tools to build a business that offers financial freedom and personal fulfilment.
What's your next steps?
This is your chance to become a leader, a teacher, and a trusted expert in self-defence.
Look forward to meeting you soon and as the famous saying goes..“
"If you wait until you’re ready, you’ll be waiting the rest of your life.” – Lemony Snicket
JOIN THE INSTRUCTOR COURSE TODAY
- Krav Maga Federation Certificate allowing you to teach across the world via a trusted and established certification.
- 4 day intensive course teaching you all the skills required to become an elite self defence instructor.
- Structured syllabus providing the optimal learning experience, covering all essential and advanced topics.
- Gain lifelong access to our instructors allowing you to check in and continuously learn throughout your career.
- Level up your gym offerings allowing you to reach new clients within your local community.
One off Payment
- Secure your space now.
£800
Refer a friend
- If you refer or bring a friend receive a 25 % Discount
£600
Pay In Instalments
- Pay a deposit to hold your place
- Then pay remainder over 2 or 3 instalments.
£200 Deposit
(Total £850)
FAQ's
How long is the course?
They are typically run over 4 days and we offer weekend and weekday courses.
Where is the course?
We hold courses throughout the year, in various locations. Following you registering your interest we are able to work with you to find the best date and location for you.
What do I need to bring with me?
We will provide all weapons and equipment related to the course, so you will just need boxing gloves, shin pads and sports clothing which you are happy to train in.
What The Professional Community say
British Combat Association (BCA)
Peter Consterdine 10th Dan Karate
Chairman & Chief Instructor.
British Combat Association.
British Combat Karate Association.
World Combat Association
Regarding Ricky Manetta
I just want to put a few words together as a reference for Ricky Manetta, who apart from being a long-term friend was one of our early members of the BCA and today one of its Senior Instructors.
Ricky is probably one of the most experienced martial artists with a skill set encompassing traditional martial arts and defensive tactics, both melding into his MMA, of which he is recognised as a national level instructor.
Ricky has taught and mentored numerous instructors, many who have gone on to full-time instruction and anyone who is thinking of working with him will be in safe hands.
Above all else, Ricky is one of nature’s nice people – a trustworthy and reliable individual who has a patient and empathetic approach to the teaching of martial arts and self defence.
What The Professional Community say
Regarding Ricky Manetta
MittMaster Matt
Matt is the creator of the Mitt Master System and a Globally recognised Online Instructor and Certifier.
Graded to black belt/ Instructor level in multiple disciplines
Former British Undefeated Welterweight MMA Title holder
Author Of Several Martial Arts Best Sellers
Business Coach To Schools From 200 to 600 Members.
I've known Ricky for over a decade.
He is dedicated, passionate, and a great teacher of effective self defence.
If you get the chance to train with him, take it
Highly recommended
What The Professional Community say
Regarding Ricky Manetta
Paul Hines
Former MMA Head Coach for The MMA Clinic London
Licensed second… British Boxing Board of Control
Bjj Black belt
Head BJJ Coach for combat lab Weymouth
I’ve known Ricky for over 30 years and is one of my oldest friends. We started our journey in combat sports training together and both went on to build careers in martial arts. Ricky has always been committed to helping others improve. He’s a very knowledgeable instructor who takes the time to support his students and make sure they’re progressing.
If you’re considering the instructor course, I’d definitely recommend it. Show up, stay consistent, and you will really benefit from his experience and guidance.
Free Bonus from
Mitt Master Matt
Pad Holding for Self-Defence:
When you enrol in this course, you’ll receive an exclusive bonus training module from Mitt Master Matt — completely free.
This Pad Holding for Self-Defence course will teach you how to hold pads safely, effectively, and purposefully for self-defence scenarios. Whether you’re teaching classes, private sessions, or running courses, this bonus will help you:
Improve student accuracy and timing
- Deliver more dynamic, realistic training
- Add variety and value to every session you run
It’s the perfect add-on to help you become a more skilled, confident, and in-demand instructor.
💥 Enhance your coaching and sharpen your sessions.
All included — free with your enrolment.
©2024 MMA Self Defence. All rights reserved.
Privacy Policy