Learn Self-Defense at Hammerfist Krav Maga

Jason Carrio knows what it feels like to be bullied, pushed around and afraid.

“I grew up dealing with violence and being scared – always having that gnawing fear,” he said.

That’s why Carrio eventually joined the Army. It’s also why he became enamored with self-defense. It also explains his passion for Krav Maga.

Krav Maga is a self-defense fighting system used by the Israeli Defense Forces. Unlike other forms of martial arts, this style is designed to arm practitioners with the skills and knowledge they need to escape dangerous situations. The techniques taught in this discipline were created so that anyone of any age or physical conditioning can perform them, Carrio said.

“There’s Krav Maga for every person,” Carrio explained. “It’s not meant for sport or competition. (Students) right away learn to defend (themselves).”

Carrio is ready to introduce Krav Maga to the community this Saturday. His school hosts its official Grand Opening from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Nov. 5. During the open house, potential students can stop by and learn more.

A free ABCs of success through board breaking seminar will be taught for children ages 7 to 14 from 11 a.m. to noon. From 1 to 4 p.m. the U.S. director of the International Krav Maga Federation will conduct a family protection seminar. That seminar costs $50 a person or $90 per couple and is designed to teach people the techniques they need to know to protect others.

“Moms, Dads should be the ones at this program,” Carrio said.

Carrio owns the new school along with his wife Ashley.

“She’s the backbone,” Carrio said of his wife.

Jason Carrio has been studying Krav Maga since 2003. He is a certified instructor with federation.

Steven Faison teaches the youth programs at the school.

For more information about Hammerfist, stop by the school, 27213 State Road 56, or call 813-907-9544.

The open house will also include free nutritional consultations courtesy of Max Muscle in Wesley Chapel and a bounce house for smaller children. To register for the family protection seminar, call or stop by the school.