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FAQs
Frequently asked questions
Yes. The Beginners Academy at New Generation Martial Arts (NGMA) in Woolston, Southampton welcomes complete beginners. You don’t need any previous martial arts experience. Our coaches will explain the drills and help you learn at your own pace.
The NGMA Beginners Academy is a starting point for people who are new to martial arts. You’ll learn foundational skills, become familiar with training and build confidence with support from our coaches. Reception staff can help you understand the available classes and choose where to begin.
Arrive a little early and check in at reception. Our reception team will welcome you, show you where to go and help you complete a short waiver. You’ll then join the class and take part alongside the group. Let your coach know it’s your first session so they can guide you through the exercises.
No. You can start at your current fitness level and gradually build fitness through training. Take breaks when you need them and work at a manageable pace. Our coaches can help you adjust exercises as you get used to the class. Lots of people join NGMA to get fit, many members have had fantastic success stories through training martial arts.
Wear comfortable sports clothes that allow you to move freely, such as a T-shirt with shorts or leggings. Avoid jewellery and clothing with exposed zips or metal fastenings. Bring a bottle of water and check with reception before your first session about any equipment needed for your chosen class.
The best starting class depends on your interests and what you want from training. You might enjoy striking, grappling or a combination of both. Tell us whether you’re interested in fitness, learning practical skills, building confidence or simply trying something new, and we can help you choose a suitable first session.
You don’t need to have started as a child to enjoy martial arts. Adults can begin with no previous experience and develop their skills over time. If you’re unsure which class would suit you, speak to our team about your goals and any concerns before booking. Lots of our members train to simply keep fit and others who have started as an adult have gone on to compete at high levels or locally to push themselves. You're never to old to start something new. Our weekday lunch classes are the perfect non - contact classes to get started with.
Yes. You don’t need to bring a friend or training partner. Many people attend their first martial arts class alone. Reception will welcome you, and your coach will help you find a partner when an exercise involves working in pairs. Many of our members join to make friends in the local area.
Yes. NGMA offers a free trial class so you can meet the team, experience training and see how you feel before joining. Use the free trial booking option on our website and tell us you’re a beginner so we can help you choose an appropriate class.
The NGMA Beginners Academy membership costs £65 per month. Our reception team can explain which classes are included, how to join and how to book your training through the MAAT app. We so not have any joining fees and you can cancel via email, we just require 5 days notice.
Two classes a week is a manageable starting point for many beginners. Consistent attendance helps you remember what you learn and feel more comfortable in class. Start with a routine that fits your schedule and allows time to recover between sessions.
The Beginners Academy is based at New Generation Martial Arts, 12 Hazel Road, Woolston, Southampton, SO19 7GA. Check our timetable and book your first session before attending.
Speak to your coach about your progress and the training you enjoy most. They can advise you on suitable next classes, while reception can explain the membership options. You can build your skills at your own pace without feeling rushed.
For your first session, please bring:• A bottle of water• Clean, comfortable gym clothes such as shorts, joggers and a T-shirt• Any equipment you already have, such as gloves, a gumshield or shin guardsWe train barefoot, so please make sure your feet are clean and your nails are trimmed.If you’re attending BJJ Gi, you’ll need a suitable Gi. Don’t worry if you don’t have one yet, as we will be able to lend you one for your first session. Just let us know beforehand. We can also lend you some striking equipment for your first class if required.Please arrive around 10–15 minutes early so you have time to complete a short waiver. We’ll welcome you, show you where everything is and introduce you to your coach so you feel comfortable before the class begins.Most importantly, bring a positive attitude and be ready to learn. Our coaches and members will help you feel welcome from the moment you arrive.
For your first session, please bring:• A bottle of water• Clean, comfortable gym clothes such as shorts, joggers and a T-shirt• Any equipment you already have, such as gloves, a gumshield or shin guardsWe train barefoot, so please make sure your feet are clean and your nails are trimmed.If you’re attending BJJ Gi, you’ll need a suitable Gi. Don’t worry if you don’t have one yet, as we will be able to lend you one for your first session. Just let us know beforehand. We can also lend you some striking equipment for your first class if required.Please arrive around 10–15 minutes early so you have time to complete a short waiver. We’ll welcome you, show you where everything is and introduce you to your coach so you feel comfortable before the class begins.Most importantly, bring a positive attitude and be ready to learn. Our coaches and members will help you feel welcome from the moment you arrive.
When you arrive at our Woolston gym, come through the main entrance, head straight up the stairs and enter through the first door you come to.Let our reception team know it’s your first session and we’ll give you a warm welcome, show you where everything is and introduce you to your coach.Please arrive around 10–15 minutes early so you have time to complete a short waiver and get settled before the class begins.If you have any injuries, medical conditions or anything else you feel we should know about, please let us or your coach know before training so we can help you train safely.
Free customer parking is located in Oakbank Road car park, just a 3 minute walk away.
Press machine for a free 2 hour ticket and display in window or download the parking app.
Free from 6pm and Sunday.
PLEASE DO NOT PARK AT THE FRONT OF THE BUILDING OR IN THE ROWING CLUB.
No, we're sorry. We do not keep any cash on premises.
Yes, all members must book their classes in advance using the MAAT App. This helps us manage safe numbers to train. It also helps coaches plan their sessions, get to know the members names and improve our services.
PAYG members must also pay and book in advance at reception or via the MAAT app.
contact us via WhatsApp or email to book in your free trial. We will then direct you to the correct MAAT app based on what disciplines you would like to train.
All memberships are monthly rolling. You are never tied into a lengthy contact.
If you wish to cancel you must contact us stating your full name and the date you would like your membership to be cancelled. You MUST email at least 5 working days before the payment is due to be taken from your account.
Refunds will not be given if you fail to cancel your payment with us by the above method.
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