About Us

The Kore Standard: Proven Expertise, Real-World Resilience

Founded in 2012 by Dr. Tammy McCracken, Kore Self Defense is more than a training center; it is a laboratory for human potential and personal safety. Located in Northern Virginia, we provide world-class instruction in Krav Maga, functional fitness, and specialized self-defense. As a proud Krav Maga Global (KMG) Certified Training Center, we deliver an elite curriculum that is recognized and respected worldwide for its efficacy and rigorous standards.

At Kore, we believe that self-defense is a holistic discipline. Our programs go beyond physical movement to integrate the psychological and emotional attributes required to navigate conflict. From the foundational skills taught in our Kore Warriors youth program to the high-stakes conditioning of our Adult Krav Maga and Valkyries divisions, we cultivate the focus, confidence, and resilience necessary for the modern world.

Leadership in Action: Head Instructor Steven Fisher

As an owner of Kore Defense Industries and our Head Instructor, Steven Fisher exemplifies the dedication to multifaceted excellence that defines our center. Steve leads our daily operations and instructional team, bringing a rich background in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), Judo, and Muay Thai to the mats.

A Pedigree of Technical Mastery

Steve’s approach to instruction is rooted in elite global standards. His credentials include:

Certified Instructor, Krav Maga Global (KMG): Maintaining the rigorous international standards of the KMG system.
Specialized Women’s Self-Defense: Licensed in Instructional Foundations through the 500 Rising non-profit.
Muay Thai University: Level 1 Instructor certified under Buck Grant.
Academic Precision: With a Master’s in Information Systems from George Mason University, Steve uses his analytical background to deconstruct complex technical movements into logical, digestible steps for every student.

Community Impact & Resilience

Beyond the studio, Steve is a pivotal figure in regional safety, leading our partnership with the Community Security Service (CSS) to provide Krav Maga training at DC Metro universities and the Edlavitch JCC. His coaching philosophy is further forged by a legacy of “extreme” endurance, having completed over 60 Obstacle Course Races, including three Spartan World Championships. This competitive spirit informs the mental toughness we instill in every Kore student.

Our Legacy: Dr. Tammy McCracken

The foundational “Kore” curriculum was developed by our founder, Dr. Tammy McCracken. While Tammy now focuses her efforts on global solutions and specialized consultancy, she remains an integral part of our community, teaching at Kore on a limited basis and overseeing the high standards of our instructional staff.

A Formidable Foundation

A KMG Expert Rank practitioner—trained in Israel and certified by Eyal Yanilov—Tammy was the first fully certified female instructor on the East Coast. With a Doctorate in Psychology and 25 years as a practicing psychotherapist, her research on mindfulness and situational awareness remains the bedrock of our training. A sought-after expert for Women in Federal Law Enforcement (WIFLE) and the Airline Pilots Association (ALPA), her influence ensures that Kore students receive training that is as psychologically sound as it is physically effective.

Kore Self Defense Instructor Team

Meet the experts behind the Kore experience. Our instructors are more than just teachers—they are dedicated practitioners and industry professionals committed to the highest standards of reality-based self-defense. Every member of our team is vetted through the most rigorous training requirements in the industry, ensuring that the instruction you receive is technically precise, psychologically sound, and immediately relevant.

Whether leading a high-intensity Krav Maga session or a foundational youth class, our instructors bring a unique fusion of tactical expertise and a passion for fostering a resilient, empowered community. At Kore, we don’t just train students; we forge leaders.

Steven FisherOwner/Head Instructor

Kevin BosmanOwner/Instructor

Tammy McCrackenFounder/Instructor

Mikayla RodarteLead Instructor

Sophie FisherInstructor

Andrea LucenteInstructor

John DashiellInstructor

Oscar MosquedaInstructor

Amy MaxwellInstructor

Jack QuilantangAssistant Instructor

Join Our Community

Whether you are here to master the world’s most effective self-defense system, build an elite level of fitness, or find balance through traditional yoga, you are entering a community dedicated to your success. At Kore, we don’t just teach you how to fight; we teach you how to thrive.

Experience the difference that elite instruction and psychological insight can make. Step onto the mats and begin your journey toward your extraordinary potential.

START YOUR JOURNEY WITH A TRIAL CLASS

ABOUT US

Our History and Instructors