You’ve taken the plunge and booked yourself in for your first ever karate class at your nearest Academy of Martial Arts. Well done! Here are some tips that can help you to prepare for your new adventure.
Arrive early
It’s always better to be early than late. And when it comes to starting something new, it’s better to be early than to be on time. Arriving early will give you the opportunity to settle yourself into your surroundings. You will be able to take some time to breathe and get yourself into a calm state for the task ahead.
Introduce yourself to front staff
Introduce yourself to the front staff and let them know that this is your first Karate class. They will be well versed in dealing with nervous beginners and will likely offer you some much-needed words of comfort and advice. It’s also worth it to make as many acquaintances as possible, the more comfortable and at home you feel in your environment the easier the entire process will be and the more you will enjoy it.
Locate change rooms, bathrooms, training space
Find out where all of the amenities are so, you don’t have the awkward situation of missing half the class because you couldn’t find the bathroom. Settle yourself into the training area and organize your gear. Take your time to change and try to feel as comfortable as possible.
Introduce yourself to instructor
Introduce yourself directly to the instructor. Karate is a very interactive martial art, and being a wallflower is not going to benefit you too much. So, take the plunge and make yourself known. Let them know that this your first class and you’re slightly nervous but also excited. This will make it easier for them to subtly give you a bit of extra help if you need it.
Get set in the training area
Have a look around the training area and get yourself acquainted with it. Make sure you have all the equipment you need and set yourself up in a space where you feel prepared and comfortable.
Enjoy the experience!
You’re in. You’re prepared. You’ve made a few new friends and you’re excited to get started. Now is the time to enjoy it. Karate is a brilliant form of exercise and can also help to release pent up feelings of irritation and anger. You will likely come out of your first lesson feeling tired and achy but also calm and happy. If you’re like most new students, you won’t be able to wait to get back on the floor and practice those new moves!
