Group Classes
Krav Maga
Krav Maga is a practical self-defense system that’s easy to learn, retain, and apply under stress. It focuses on common real-world threats such as grabs, chokes, ground fighting, weapon attacks, and multiple attackers. The system utilizes a wide range of striking techniques using punches, kicks, elbows, knees, and headbutts.
Because of its direct and effective approach, Krav Maga is taught worldwide to civilians, law enforcement, security professionals, and military personnel. It is an excellent choice for anyone seeking to learn practical self-defense skills in a relatively short period of time.
Classes include warm-up exercises, technical instruction, partner practice, pad work, and scenario-based drills. Each class places a strong emphasis on proper form, effective execution, and self-defense strategy.
The Himalayan Academy of Martial Arts is an official training center of the International Krav Maga Federation (IKMF), the world’s oldest Krav Maga organization, founded by Imi Lichtenfeld, the creator of the system. All Krav Maga classes are led by Richard Syrop, a certified IKMF civilian and women’s self-defense instructor.
Boxing
Our boxing class emphasizes proper technique, strategic movement, and conditioning. Students will learn both fundamental and advanced boxing skills while enjoying a challenging and rewarding workout. Throughout each session, participants are guided in executing combinations, developing solid defense, and refining their technique. Our classes cater to all levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners.
Sessions include warm-ups, technical instruction, pad work, partner drills, and strength & conditioning exercises. These high-energy classes not only teach strong boxing fundamentals but also help you build endurance, power, and overall fitness.
Boxing classes are taught by Richard Syrop, who brings over three decades of boxing experience. He was mentored at a young age by former Featherweight World Champion Kevin Kelley and his longtime trainer Phil Borga and has trained at legendary gyms across the United States, including Wildcard Gym, home of Hall of Fame trainer Freddie Roach. In addition, Richad is a USA certified boxing coach.
Kickboxing
Our kickboxing classes draw primarily from Muay Thai, while incorporating influences from other kickboxing styles across Southeast Asia and beyond. Training focuses on powerful striking techniques using the hands, feet, elbows, and knees, along with a wide variety of defensive strategies.
These sessions teach kickboxing techniques that are highly practical for self-defense, while providing a full-body workout that builds strength and stamina.
Classes include warm-up exercises, technical instruction, pad work, partner drills, and strength & conditioning exercises. Designed to enhance your skills and overall fitness, every session is a dynamic mix of skill-building and high-intensity training.
Kickboxing classes are taught by Así Ben Dror and Richard Syrop. Así brings nearly ten years of Muay Thai training, while Richard has extensive experience in Muay Thai along with a deep background in Western boxing.
Jeet Kune Do
Jeet Kune Do (JKD) was developed by Sijo Bruce Lee and later expanded and preserved by Guro/Sifu Dan Inosanto. With Wing Chun as its foundation, Bruce Lee incorporated techniques from Western boxing, various forms of kickboxing, and numerous other martial arts. Many consider JKD to be the first true mixed martial art. JKD has lost none of its effectiveness over time and is still one of the most practical well-rounded martial arts for serious practitioners.
Classes include warm-up exercises, technical instruction, pad work, partner drills, and sensitivity training. Strong emphasis is placed on proper form, clean execution, mindfulness, and intelligent fighting strategy.
All JKD classes are taught by Richard Syrop, an Apprentice Instructor directly under Guro/Sifu Dan Inosanto, one of only three individuals authorized by Bruce Lee to teach the art and a living legend in martial arts. Richard is among the few instructors in Asia certified under Guro Dan.
Filipino Martial Arts
Filipino Martial Arts (FMA) encompass traditional systems from the Philippines, including Kali, Eskrima, Arnis, and Panantukan. Our program follows the curriculum of Guro Dan Inosanto, one of the world’s foremost authorities on FMA and a four-time Black Belt Hall of Fame inductee.
Classes focus on weapons and empty-hand combat, including stick, knife, and hand-to-hand techniques. Training emphasizes clean execution, coordination, timing, and combat strategy.
All FMA classes are taught by Richard Syrop, an Apprentice Instructor under Guro Dan Inosanto and one of the few instructors in Asia certified under him.
Women’s Self-Defense
Our Women’s Self-Defense classes follow the curriculum of the International Krav Maga Federation’s ”Stay Away!” program. “Stay Away!” is the world’s most widely taught women’s self-defense program, crafted specifically to address the unique threats and attacks women may encounter in their daily lives. Since 1994, “Stay Away!” has been taught all over the world to countless women.
Classes include warm-up exercises, technical instruction, partner practice, punching and kicking striking shields, and scenario-based drills. Each class places strong emphasis on proper form, effective execution, and self-defense strategy.
These classes are taught by Richard Syrop and Navya Kundar. Richard is one of the few IKMF instructors in Asia certified to teach this program. Navya has studied Krav Maga under Richard for several years and has over five years of MMA training. “Stay Away!” is offered throughout the year in both course and seminar formats.
Martial Arts for Children & Teens
Our children’s and teens martial arts classes teach foundational self-defense skills in a fun, supportive, and empowering environment. These classes help young students build confidence, improve focus and coordination, prevent bullying, and improve physical fitness.
Classes include warm-ups, technical instruction, punching and kicking striking shields, partner drills, and strength & conditioning exercises. Emphasis is placed on good form, clean execution, discipline and camaraderie.
Children and teens classes are led by Richard Syrop and Navya Kundar. With over three decades of martial arts expertise, Richard brings a wealth of knowledge. Navya has over five years of MMA training, and has also studied Krav Maga, Jeet Kune Do, and boxing under Richard for several years.
Sparring
Sparring classes are by invitation only and are reserved for students who have demonstrated solid martial arts fundamentals, along with good control and range management.
Both boxing and kickboxing rounds are conducted. Participants will spar with multiple partners, gaining experience against a variety of styles and challenges in a controlled and respectful environment.
Contact us for our current weekly schedule.
Testimonials
Posted on Machig LabdronTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Our son (14 years old) started training with Richard last year, and it has been an important experience for our whole family. Richard managed to instill a genuine love for martial arts in him, inspiring our son with his enthusiasm and positive mindset. The training sessions are very dynamic. Richard does not go easy on the students, but at the same time he is always attentive, fair, and supportive. There is a clear individual approach and real involvement in the training process. Richard is a high-level coach who has learned from great masters of martial arts, including Guro Dan Inosanto, one of the few instructors certified by Bruce Lee and Kevin Kelly, the former Featherweight World Boxing Champion. We can see not only physical progress, but also increased motivation, confidence, and discipline in our son. We sincerely recommend training with Richard.Posted on Sandesh AdhikariTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I have been training here for the last two months. The last few months have been an amazing experience. This place is perfect for beginners as well as experienced ones. Richard is an outstanding trainer, very patient, experienced, and highly skilled. His guidance makes the class very interesting and he really cares about every single detail. He is really focused on helping you improve. I feel more confident and I can see great progress within myself since joining even though it’s been a short time. Highly recommended!Posted on Vaibhav SharmaTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. trained at this academy for a week and saw a noticeable improvement in my stamina, punch speed, and power....My overall fitness and shape improved in a very short time! 🥊 The coach is highly skilled, supportive, and very humble in nature, which makes training even better! Overall, this is an excellent academy for anyone who wants serious and quality training. Highly recommended!!! 🦍🥊Posted on Surya SimonTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Himalayan Academy of Martial Arts is awesome!!! I love training there and Richard is an excellent teacher. He’s well rounded and has a lot of experience, he brings something unique to every session with many surprising technique and skills. I love the vibe and would say that the place is both beginner and advanced friendly. I have a decent martial arts background and I can see how I improved and evolved quickly in my journey training at this academy. Highly recommend it.Posted on Neha MoluguTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The best martial arts school in the area. I spent a few months learning krav maga , self defense for women and boxing with Richard and it was one the best experiences! I left feeling stronger and empowered. I also made a lot of new friends who made me more confident in myself. If you’re in the region, I’d highly recommend you drop in for one of the classes with Richard. You won’t regret it!Posted on Or WinfieldTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I went to Richard with my 5 year old son for private lessons thinking I'm doing it for my son but I also got SO MUCH out of these lessons (as well as my son) and was so empowered. Richard's energy and attitude is so warm and friendly, we both felt very comfortable very quickly. I highly recommend!Posted on Mikhail KovalevTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The best place to study martial arts and build your body with an amazing teacherPosted on Kishan sakseriaTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Training at Richard’s Martial Arts Academy has been a life changing experience for me. I was really drawn to the Jeet Kune Do and Filipino Martial Arts classes. Training under Richard gave me far more than just techniques, it changed the way I move, think, and approach challenges. Richard trained under Guro Dan Inosanto, who learned from Bruce Lee himself, and that authentic lineage is clearly reflected in his teaching. He is patient, deeply knowledgeable, and truly cares about his students growth. Training with Richard has also greatly helped me in my spiritual journey. I’m genuinely grateful for this experience and highly recommend his Academy.Posted on YanikTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Can highly recommend this place. Richard really knows his stuff and is a great Teacher. The group sizes are perfect, you get a good mix of fun people and the coach can really take time and focus on each and every one.Posted on Lisa BoshuizenTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I have been boxing almost my entire life and only a few times have I met trainers that have helped me grow so much as Richard did. He really cares and quickly sees where you can improve. This school was a big part of why Dharamshala felt like home to me. I truly hope that I will get the chance to train here again.