What To Expect At Your First Kickboxing Class
Kickboxing is one of the more exciting striking arts, which is why millions of dedicated practitioners from all over the world find solace in practicing the discipline.
From hobbyists to hardcore professionals, each person walks away from kickboxing class having learned something new about themselves and what they are capable of achieving.
If you’ve recently decided to train in kickboxing, here’s what you can expect on your first day of class.
You’re Going To Get Sweaty
Take it from ONE Lightweight Kickboxing World Champion Alexis Nicolas — when you’re doing an intense body workout like kickboxing, you’re going to sweat a lot, so dress to keep yourself comfortable and dry.
Wear athletic clothing that wicks away sweat and doesn’t rub against your skin in an uncomfortable way. Some kickboxing practitioners opt to wear Muay Thai shorts and a comfortable t-shirt in addition to hand wraps and ankle guards.
It’s also a good idea to keep a hand towel and water bottle close by to stay hydrated.
Prepare To Push Your Cardio To The Max
Kickboxing is one of those martial arts that oftentimes requires an intense amount of cardiovascular conditioning.
Remember to keep breathing and take each move one step at a time. Moreover, since you’ll be moving your hands and feet in a way that you may not be accustomed to, be sure to pace yourself.
But you don’t need to be a professional athlete or have any athletic experience to make it through your first intense cardio workout. Just be prepared to leave your first day a little sore and tired.
Hopefully, though, the energy you get from the class will entice you to come back the next day.
You’re Not There To Hurt Or Be Hurt
When hitting the gym for the first time, you may be punching and kicking bags and pads, and you may even do some light drill work. But don’t expect to go hard or get hurt.
Training in kickboxing is all about learning a new martial art and having fun without causing harm to your training partner. In other words, it should be an effective workout – not something done aimlessly.
So, make sure you go easy and hit with 50 percent of your power or less. Remember, the goal isn’t to make your partner a punching bag, but rather a person you can flow and practice with.
Putting out good energy during your first class will not only make you an awesome training partner, but it will also help everyone improve overall because people can try new things without being afraid of getting hurt.
You’re Going To Be Challenged
If you’re familiar with martial arts movies, you know that most of them share a common theme — a student goes to a teacher for instruction, is faced with multiple obstacles, overcomes them, and then becomes a master.
You may not want to become a ONE Kickboxing World Champion, but your first kickboxing workout will sure present you with challenges you’ve never experienced before.
Whether it’s doing burpees until you feel like you’re going to drop or keeping your hands up even if your shoulders are burning, you’re going to be pulled out of your comfort zone.
You’ll Have More Fun Than You Thought Possible
In addition to the confidence you’ll gain from taking one kickboxing class, you’ll also meet people from all walks of life and maybe even make friendships that last a lifetime.
While kickboxing is a sport, it is also a fun exercise that brings like-minded people together, to push one another and help each other grow.
Although there will be times when you’ll be challenged, remember to enjoy the experience and have fun.
