SAMI stands for Self-defense and Martial Arts Institute. Our mission is to teach martial arts and self-defense techniques to individuals and professionals of all ages and backgrounds. We focus on physical fitness, mental discipline, and personal growth while promoting a sense of community and respect among our members. We do this by teaching in-person and online courses for students, instructors, and professionals.

I'm a beginner. What combat system should I do first?

Choosing the right Combat System to start with depends on your personal goals, preferences, and physical abilities. If you want to learn self-defense, start with one of our Defense systems. If you prefer martial arts, look into our Fighting Art systems. If you are a professional (authorities, security, police, special forces, etc.), we offer SAMI-X Pro.

Do I need any prior experience to start?

No prior experience is necessary to start with one of our SAMI Combat Systems. Our online and in-person classes cater to individuals of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners. Our experienced instructors will help you progress at your own pace.

What age groups do you cater to?

We welcome students of all ages, typically starting from age 12 and up. Some of our SAMI Centers also offer classes specifically tailored for kids and women to ensuring an appropriate learning environment.

What are the membership fees?

You can start SAMI-X Online for free. The prices of the paid online memberships are listed in the pricing table above. If you train at a SAMI Center, the fee depends on the center, how often you train and the program you choose — your local SAMI Center will tell you its prices. On top of your Center fee there is a SAMI International Membership every student needs to have to be able to receive their official SAMI diploma.

How long does it take to become proficient in a SAMI Combat System?

The time it takes to become proficient in a martial art varies depending on factors such as your dedication, consistency, and the complexity of the system. On average, it takes several years to achieve a high level of skill and understanding.

Can I try a class before committing to a membership?

Yes, normally we offer trial classes for prospective members to experience our training environment and meet our instructors. Please contact your local SAMI Center to schedule a trial class. If you want to try SAMI-X Online, you can sign up for free, and try some of our free trainings.

Master Martial Arts. Train Anywhere.

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Which Combat System fits me? (1 min)

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60,000+ Members

Join a global community of martial arts enthusiasts.

5,200+ Videos

On-demand lessons from world-class instructors.

280+ Instructors

Certified SAMI instructors teaching worldwide.

32 Centers

Train in person at a SAMI center near you.

Train anywhere with a complete online course

Structured video lessons and clear learning paths — train at your own pace, wherever you are.

SAMI-X Knife

SAMI-X KNIFE Combat – First Contact with the Blade

Start anytime

Online

This online course offers a structured and comprehensive entry into SAMI-X KNIFE Combat and the handling of the blade as a martial art. It is designed for beginners who want to explore, experience, and evaluate this discipline without immediately committing to the full Level 1 program. The course introduces the fundamental principles, movement structures, and technical concepts of the SAMI-X KNIFE Combat system. The focus is on clean technique, body mechanics, coordination, and the conscious, controlled use of the blade as a martial arts training tool—clearly distinguished from conventional self-defense training. Structured online courses in the field of knife martial arts are still rare. SAMI-X KNIFE Combat – First Contact with the Blade therefore provides a unique opportunity to access high-quality, system-based instruction anytime and anywhere. You train at your own pace and are guided through clear demonstrations and precise explanations by experienced SAMI-X instructors. This course is suitable both for complete beginners and for martial artists from other disciplines who are seeking a first, systematic introduction to knife martial arts before progressing to advanced training levels.

€18.90

SAMI-X Core

SAMI-X Core Module 1

Certification

Start anytime

Online

Learn the fundamentals of modern self-protection in this online course led by SAMI founder Peter Weckauf and senior instructor Robert Exl. The Core Defense Module 1 is your gateway into a practical, mindset-based self-defense system designed for real-world threats — no matter your experience level.

€290

SAMI-X Karambit

SAMI-X Karambit Modul 1

Certification

Start anytime

Online

Discover the unique art of the Karambit — a curved-blade tool originally designed for utility, now one of the most effective and visually distinctive self-defense weapons in the world. Whether you’re training for personal development or aspiring to become an instructor, Karambit Module 1 offers a comprehensive, structured path into one of the most dynamic tools in martial arts.

€290

SAMI-X Krav Maga

Krav Maga - Level 1

Certification

Start anytime

Online

The Level 1 program is designed for beginners. The essential elements of Krav Maga self-defense are taught to provide a solid foundation for further training. By the end of the Level 1 program, students should be able to perform all exercises and techniques with the necessary charisma, agility, control and fluidity.

€390

SAMI-X Panantukan

Panantukan - Level 1

Certification

Start anytime

Online

Panantukan Level 1 – Your Entry into a Functional Combat System Panantukan is a combat art from the Filipino martial arts, closely connected to weapon-based training. Many of its movement principles originate from stick and knife fighting and are adapted to empty-hand combat. This creates a system that combines multiple fighting elements into one functional approach. In training, you will use striking techniques from boxing, kicks from kickboxing, basic ground elements, and close-range control methods. At the same time, concepts influenced by weapon defense are integrated – not as isolated techniques, but as a way of understanding distance, timing, and control. The system is built around key concepts such as: Destruction – disrupting or damaging the opponent’s attack Manipulation – controlling balance and positioning Trapping – controlling limbs and creating openings Flow & transitions – connecting movements instead of isolating them Throughout the course, you will develop practical striking skills, including: straight punches, hammerfists, and slap strikes elbow techniques for close range kicks and knees for distance control and disruption The focus is not on perfection, but on functionality. Movements are kept compact and efficient so they can work under pressure. The course is clearly structured and designed so that you can: train solo or with a partner build a solid understanding of movement and timing apply techniques through drills and simple applications understand the system, not just individual techniques Panantukan is not a sport-based system or a collection of techniques. It is a practical approach to combat, built around clear principles and direct solutions. The pre-sale gives you the opportunity to be part of the course from the very beginning and experience its development step by step.

€390

SAMI-X Karambit

SAMI-X Karambit Modul 2

Certification

Start anytime

Online

Deployment in motion, arm destruction and disarms against the six angles.

€290

SAMI-X Karambit

SAMI-X Karambit Modul 3

Certification

Start anytime

Online

Become a SAMI-X Karambit Expert

€290

SAMI-X Weapon Protection

SAMI-X PRO WEAPON PROTECTION | MODULE 1

Certification

Start anytime

Online

Maintain Control of Your Weapon For professional weapon carriers, losing control of a firearm can turn a situation into a life-threatening confrontation within seconds. Weapon Protection is about preventing exactly that. SAMI-X PRO Weapon Protection Module 1 is designed for police, corrections, military, customs, security personnel, and other professional weapon carriers. The training focuses on situations where distance is lost and direct physical contact occurs. The first priority is prevention. Participants learn to recognize potential threats early and use positioning, distance, and body orientation to prevent access to the holster or weapon. If physical access occurs, simple and stress-resistant principles are used to secure the weapon, break the attacker’s grip, and regain control. Training includes weapon grabs from different directions and positions, including situations combined with grabbing, striking, or physical resistance. Self-protection and weapon protection are trained as one concept. Defensive actions, distance creation, body and arm control, and transitions into control or takedown options are integrated into the training. SAMI-X PRO focuses on simple principles and transferable movement patterns rather than large numbers of isolated techniques. Recognize the threat. Prevent access. Protect the weapon. Regain control.

€290

How do you want to train?

Whether you prefer training from home, at a center, or want to teach — we have the right path for you.

Train Online

Learn self-defense at your own pace with online courses, live video sessions, guided trainings, and a library of 5,200+ technique videos.

Train In-Person

Find a SAMI center near you and train with certified instructors. Attend seminars, take exams, and earn your official SAMI diplomas.

Become an Instructor

Turn your passion into a career. Get certified, access professional teaching materials, and build your own training business.

For companies, authorities and women

Find the perfect Combat System for you

Choose your goal and discover the Combat Systems that match you best.

SAMI-X Defense

Krav Maga · CORE · SDS · Defender

SAMI-X Fighting Art

Panantukan · Stick · Knife · Karambit · Axe

SAMI-X Pro

EBC · SAMI-X Pro

View all Combat Systems

Founded by Peter Weckauf

20+ years developing real-world self-defense systems

“I am convinced that self-defense and martial arts undergo constant transformation when you are prepared to bring knowledge, experience, and passion.”

Trained police & special forces in 50+ countries
Austrian Cobra, WEGA, Bahrain Royal Guard, Spanish GEO
300,000+ social media followers
12.6 million YouTube views
Author, professional trainer and coach

About SAMI

The all-in-one platform for martial arts & self-defense

Learn combat systems, practice with guided trainings, and get officially certified — at your own pace.

LEARN

Structured online courses

Follow step-by-step courses from beginner to advanced. Each course includes video lessons, assignments, and official SAMI certification upon completion.

PRACTICE

Live training with real instructors

Join live video sessions with certified SAMI instructors. Train in real-time, get feedback, and connect with other members — all from your living room.

EXPLORE

5,200+ technique videos

Browse the largest video library for self-defense and martial arts techniques. Filter by combat system, level, and type. New content added every week.

TRAIN

Custom workout builder

Create your own training routines or use AI-generated workouts. Set rounds, rest times, and exercises — then follow along with the built-in player.

TRACK

Your personal training dashboard

Track your progress with XP, achievements, training streaks, and an activity heatmap. See personalized recommendations based on your training history.