There's lots of advice out there on how to improve your fitness levels and how to really make the most of different training styles. However, what if you are an absolute beginner and need some solid tips on how to get off the starting blocks? If you want to set out on a fitness journey that's going to take you down the right track for the rest of the year, rather than be an uphill struggle, then you just need to follow some simple ideas.

2014 might be the Year of the Horse in Chinese astrology but there's no reason why it cannot be the Year of the Man too. For any man who wants to lead a fit and healthy lifestyle, the start of 2014 might be just the catalyst to get you going.

First Defense Krav Maga is returning to Maryland for a 6-week Krav Maga Foundations Course beginning February 3rd, 2014. The Course runs 6-weeks from February 3rd to March 10th and classes are on Monday evenings from 7:30-8:30pm. What we'll cover during the course: *Basic Striking Using Hands, Elbows, Knees, & Legs *Defending Strikes *Releases from Chokes *Releases from Headlocks *Releases From Bearhugs *Releases from Wrist Grabs *Using Common Weapons for Self-Defense *Defending Yourself on the Ground *Dealing with Stress *Developing the Proper Mental Attitude Location: Ohr Kodesh Congregation 8300 Meadowbrook Lane Chevy Chase, MD 20815 Cost: $175 REGISTER HERE

The January class is completely full, but not to worry, First Defense is hosting another 4-week Krav Maga Foundations Course starting on February 3rd! What we’ll cover in the Foundations Course: *Basic Striking Using Hands, Elbows, Knees, & Legs *Defending Strikes *Releases from Chokes *Releases from Headlocks *Releases From Bearhugs *Releases from Wrist Grabs *Using Common Weapons for Self-Defense *Defending Yourself on the Ground *Dealing with Stress *Developing the Proper Mental Attitude Every registrant will receive a First Defense t-shirt and access to our brand new First Defense app.

On February 1, 2014, First Defense has the honor of hosting (once again) Eyal Yanilov for a Krav Maga workshop. This is Eyal''s first stop in the States on his World Tour, so let''s show our support! Check out our 2014 KMG World Tour Page for more information and to register.

Whatever age you are, make 2014 the year when you really come into your own as the woman you've always wanted to be. This is the Year of the Horse in Chinese astrology and this symbolizes a relentless nature to improve yourself through positive, intelligent and energetic efforts.

While you might have made and broken resolutions in the past, let's face it, if you don't make them in the first place then you definitely are not going to be able to see them through. New Year resolutions are not about rolling out the same old ideas but taking the opportunity to set the tone for the year ahead, especially when it comes to your health, fitness and lifestyle.

With the best will in the world, it's a challenge to create a healthy end of year season for adults and kids alike. However, after a sugary festive time, why not add some balance to children's diets by focusing on health and diet awareness this January.

First Defense Krav Maga will be closed for the Holidays From Tuesday, December 24th to Wednesday, January 1st. Classes will resume on Thursday, January 2nd.

It's that time of year when people start to look at what changes they want to make in the year ahead. So, what are your plans for 2014? You no doubt have some resolutions ready that relate to your health, diet and perhaps your lifestyle in general. It's positive to have a sense of a new chapter and New Year is a good time to really take stock.