Profile
Luc Van Laere is the founder and chief instructor of the European Krav Maga Academy in Antwerp, Belgium. With over 35 years of experience in self-defense training, he holds the rank of Krav Maga Expert Level 5 and is an Advanced Specialized Instructor. His journey began in 1987 when he was first certified by Yaacov Giladi of the European Contact Combat Federation (ECKMF).
At his academy, Van Laere emphasizes a holistic approach to self-protection, integrating mental, verbal, and physical resilience. His training programs are designed not only to teach physical defense techniques but also to enhance psychological preparedness and stress management.
In addition to his instructional work, Van Laere has been featured in various media, including a 2011 documentary highlighting the European Krav Maga Academy's philosophy and training methods.
At the 20th EBCA Convention in November 2025, Van Laere will share his insights on dealing with failure and anxiety, drawing from his extensive experience in high-stress training environments. His session aims to provide coaches with practical tools to build mental resilience and effectively manage pressure, both on and off the field.
For more information about Luc Van Laere and his work, visit the European Krav Maga Academy website (link under name).
Funny detail: the European Krav Maga Academy is neighbors with the baseball shop The Cage.
