January is one of the most popular times to start a new activity, particularly new sports and fitness classes, like martial arts.

While improving your health and fitness is always a fantastic goal and something to be supported, it will not happen overnight.

Consequently, it is important to find an activity that will help you achieve your fitness goals but also keep you motivated and coming back time after time.

This is one of the major reasons people start martial arts training. Martial Arts classes are fun, will develop your fitness and teach you some useful skills, but there is also a lot to learn.

If starting martial arts classes is something you would like to do, we have put together five tips to help you get started.

“You Don’t Need To “Get In Shape Before I Start”

This is probably the most common statement people make before they start martial arts. 

It comes from a fear of embarrassment.

However, the truth is a good martial arts academy will build your fitness from zero to hero with a structured programme. They will encourage you to work at your own pace but push you to achieve more than you thought possible.

If you are attending classes 2 – 3 per week (something we suggest for more new students) your fitness will quickly develop and adapt to the demands on martial arts.

Note: Whether you are an elite athlete or a complete beginner you will experience some muscle soreness after your first couple of classes.

Don’t worry that is perfectly normal, it will pass after a few sessions and just means your muscles are getting stronger.

You Don’t Need Every Piece Of Equipment To Start

Let’s be honest, everyone wants to look good, and there is some awesome looking equipment out there, but to start you really don’t need a lot of equipment.

In fact, all you really need to start is your uniform, your belt, and a pair of gloves and focus pads (depending on the martial art you start)

As your training and skill level progress, we will suggest you get some more equipment. However, this only for your safety and depends on your goals.

It Will Be Challenging Early On

As with any new skill, there will be an initial learning curve. Martial Arts are no different. The first few month’s of martial arts training are all about understanding how to move, the terminology, and the basic techniques.

But don’t worry, this is part of the enjoyment of learning a new skill. Within a few months, you will have grasped the basics and you will be looking at new ways to develop your skills.

Try A Class Before You Join

The ONLY real way to know if martial arts or a particular school is right for you is by trying a class. 

Here are a few things to look out for:

• Is the academy conveniently located for you?
• Do the class times suit your schedule?
• How are you greeted when you arrive?
• Do they ask about any medical issues?
• What are the other students like?
• Are the instructors insured, first aid trained, and DBS checked?
• How are you treated by the instructors and staff?
• Do they pressure you into joining?

Those are a few important things to consider before joining an academy. Above all you should feel safe, and that the instructors have YOUR best interests at heart.

Keep Showing Up

Martial Arts training is a roller-coaster journey, you will have day’s where you feel like the second coming of Bruce Lee and days where you will feel frustrated and like you are not progressing.

This is perfectly normal. 

You will have highs and lows in your motivation and confidence but if you just keep showing up you will reach your goals.

Commit to coming at least 2 to 3 times per week and within a few short month’s you will be amazed at what you can achieve.

Book your free trial and start achieving you goals with US at Evolution Martial Arts and Fitness Academy…