So, you’ve signed up to learn martial arts. You know it’s a time-honoured practice with spiritual, mental, and physical benefits. You may be tired of the treadmill and looking for a less monotonous workout. Perhaps your child is in martial arts and you’ve decided to give it a try. After all, it’s a great sport for the whole family.
Your first class is now around the corner and you’re probably getting nervous. You might not know what to expect.
With these tips, you can ensure your first class is a success.
1. Have an Open Mind
Learning martial arts will probably be unlike any other workout you’ve ever had. To get the full experience, go in with an open mind and leave any preconceptions behind. This will help you truly relax and enjoy the class.
2. You Should Be Dedicated
Martial arts isn’t a hobby per se; it’s a lifestyle. You should be willing to jump in with two feet. It takes significant practice and time to see real progress. You will learn new techniques every day and be tested every class. You should plan to attend classes regularly, rather than once every couple weeks, if you want to gain the full experience and see results.
3. Come Prepared with the Right Equipment
Martial arts is a contact sport, so you’ll need the right gear to protect yourself. The equipment required differs from class to class, but you should come prepared with a groin protector and mouthpiece at the very least. If you’re learning Jiu-Jitsu, you’ll need a gi, while you’ll require boxing gloves for Muay Thai.
Check in with the studio if you’re unsure of what gear you should bring on your first day.
4. Get to Know Your Group
Just like martial arts is a lifestyle rather than a hobby, it’s also a community rather than a gym. You’ll likely get very close to those you train with, and this is a good thing. Having trust can go a long way when you’re fighting and training with others. Having a comradery with your instructor and the other students can also help when you’re losing motivation or struggling to progress.
5. Get Ready for a Tough Workout
You may not realize it, but martial arts can be exhausting, both in mind and body. You can burn over 1,000 calories per one-hour workout, and the training itself requires significant focus and clarity.
Come to your first class ready to work out and try to clear your mind of any distracting emotions or thoughts so you can focus on the task at hand.
6. Stay Positive
You’re not going to be able to execute all martial arts moves perfectly the first time around. And that’s OK. Your instructor may make it look easy, but they’ve dedicated years to learning.
Don’t get down on yourself because you don’t have the skills or the mindset to chop bricks or execute perfect kicks.
With determination, practice, and focus, it’ll come. Always stay positive.
7. Listen to Your Instructor
There’s plenty of time to talk to your classmates after training is over. That’s also the opportune time to ask any lingering questions. But while you’re in class, be prepared to just listen and soak in all the new knowledge like a sponge. Not only will listening show respect to your instructor and the other students, but it’ll help you learn faster as well.
8. Stretch
Martial arts is very physical in nature. Stretching before class can help you become nimbler, kick higher, and move faster. A flexible body can also help you avoid injuries.
9. Get Enough Sleep
Finally, make sure you get a good night’s rest the evening before your first martial arts class. It will help ensure you have the mental and physical energy you need to train more effectively.
