What you can expect at your first martial arts training session can vary depending on the specific style of martial arts and the school you attend. However, here are some things that are generally common among martial arts classes:
- Warm-up exercises: Most classes will begin with a warm-up period that may include stretching, calisthenics, or other exercises to prepare your body for the physical demands of training.
- Instruction in basic techniques: Depending on the level of the class, the instructor may start with teaching some of the most fundamental techniques such as strikes, kicks, throws, or submission holds.
- Drilling: You will likely spend some time practicing the techniques you have learned in a controlled, repetitive manner to help ingrain the movement patterns into your muscle memory.
- Sparring or live drilling: Some styles will have sparring or live drilling as part of the regular training. It’s an opportunity to practice the techniques in a more realistic setting, with a resisting partner.
- Cool-down: At the end of the class, there may be a cool-down period that includes stretching and other exercises to help your body recover from the physical demands of training.
- Etiquette: Many martial arts schools have a strong culture, thus you may learn some etiquette, such as bowing, respect and other cultural tradition, depending on the style of martial arts.
It’s important to keep in mind that the first class can be a little overwhelming, especially if you’re new to martial arts. But with time, you’ll get familiar with the techniques, language, and culture and you will have a better understanding of what’s expected of you in each class.