Your First Martial Arts Class

Everything You Need to Know

Starting martial arts for the first time can feel exciting, but it’s completely normal to feel a little nervous too. You might be wondering whether you’re fit enough, what you should wear or whether everyone else will be more experienced than you.

At New Generation Martial Arts, we welcome complete beginners every week. You don’t need previous experience, specialist equipment or a particular level of fitness before you begin. Our coaches and members understand what it feels like to be new and will help you settle in from the moment you arrive.

Here’s everything you need to know before attending your first martial arts class at NGMA in Woolston, Southampton.

Are NGMA classes suitable for complete beginners?

Absolutely. You don’t need any previous martial arts experience to start training at NGMA.

We offer classes across Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, MMA, Muay Thai, kickboxing, boxing, wrestling and strength and conditioning. Beginners are introduced to techniques gradually, with coaches explaining each movement and helping you work at an appropriate pace.

You won’t be expected to understand everything immediately. Every experienced member was once a beginner too, and learning something unfamiliar is part of the process.

Do I need to get fit before starting martial arts?

No. You don’t need to get fit before joining a martial arts gym.

Training itself will help you gradually improve your fitness, strength, mobility, coordination and confidence. You can take breaks when necessary and build your fitness over time.

Our members train for many different reasons. Some want to compete, while others want to improve their health, learn a new skill, relieve stress or meet new people. You don’t need to be an athlete to belong at NGMA.

Which martial art should I choose?

The best discipline depends on what interests you and what you hope to gain from training.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu focuses on grappling, positional control and submissions. We offer both Gi and No-Gi training.

MMA combines striking, wrestling and grappling into one complete combat sport.

Muay Thai and kickboxing develop punches, kicks, movement, fitness and controlled partner work.

Boxing focuses on punching technique, footwork, combinations and defence.

Wrestling teaches takedowns, control and strong foundational grappling skills.

Strength and conditioning helps improve general fitness, strength, movement and athletic performance.

If you’re uncertain, contact the NGMA team and tell us what you’re looking for. We’ll help you choose the most suitable first session.

What should I wear?

For most first sessions, clean and comfortable gym clothes are perfect. Wear something that allows you to move freely, such as:

• Shorts, leggings or joggers• A comfortable T-shirt or sports top• A rash guard if you already own one

Avoid clothing with exposed zips, sharp fastenings or anything that could catch on your training partner.

We train barefoot on the mats, so please make sure your feet are clean and your fingernails and toenails are trimmed.

If you’re attending a BJJ Gi class, you’ll need a suitable Gi. If you don’t own one yet, we can lend you one for your first session. Please let us know beforehand so we can arrange this for you.

What should I bring?

Please bring:

• A bottle of water• Clean gym clothing• Any equipment you already own• A positive attitude and willingness to learn

For striking classes, bring any gloves, hand wraps, shin guards or gumshield you already have. Don’t worry if you haven’t purchased equipment yet, as we can lend you some for your first session if you contact us beforehand.

There’s no need to spend money on a complete equipment set before discovering which class is right for you.

What happens when I arrive?

NGMA is located on the first floor at 12 Hazel Road in Woolston, Southampton.

Come through the main entrance, head straight up the stairs and enter through the first door you reach.

Please arrive approximately 10–15 minutes early. Let our reception team know it’s your first session and we’ll welcome you, ask you to complete a short waiver, show you where everything is and introduce you to your coach.

What happens during the class?

Every discipline is slightly different, but most classes include:

• A warm-up

• An introduction to the techniques being taught

• Time to practise with a partner

• Guidance and corrections from the coach

• Optional controlled rounds or additional practice where appropriate

Nobody expects you to perform perfectly during your first session! Your main goal is simply to listen, try the movements and enjoy learning something new.

Our coaches focus on strong fundamentals and practical techniques, creating an environment where beginners can learn safely without ego or unnecessary pressure.

Will I have to spar or fight?

You won’t be thrown into hard sparring or expected to prove yourself.

Any partner training is introduced in a controlled and appropriate way. Your coach will explain what is happening, match you with a suitable training partner and make sure you understand how to train safely.

Competition is available for members who want it, but it is never compulsory. Many people train at NGMA for fitness, confidence, personal development and enjoyment without ever competing.

What if I have an injury or medical condition?

If you have an existing injury, medical condition or anything else that may affect your training, please tell us before the class begins.

You can include it on your waiver and speak privately with the reception team or your coach. This helps us understand how best to support you and whether any exercises should be adapted.

If you’re uncertain whether it is safe for you to train, seek advice from a GP first.

What facilities are available?

NGMA is a fully equipped martial arts facility with dedicated training areas, including:

• A Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and grappling room

• A boxing ring

• An MMA cage

• Strength and conditioning equipment

• Changing and shower facilities

• An infrared sauna

Our Woolston gym overlooks the River Itchen and is within easy reach of Woolston train station, local bus services and Southampton city centre.

What if I feel nervous?

Feeling nervous before your first class is completely normal. Walking into an unfamiliar gym can feel like a big step, especially if you have never trained in martial arts before.

You don’t need to arrive feeling confident. Confidence is something you build by showing up, learning and realising that you’re capable of more than you expected.

NGMA is built around a simple culture: no politics, no cliques and no ego. We’re a community of real people training for different reasons, and new members are always welcome.

Ready to try your first class?

Whether you want to improve your fitness, learn practical martial arts, build confidence, compete or simply try something new, NGMA will help you find the right place to start.

Contact the NGMA team to arrange your first session or view our timetable to explore martial arts classes in Woolston, Southampton.

You don’t need to be fit, experienced or confident before you begin. You just need to take the first step.