Martial arts training has much to offer students. Along with providing an essential skill, it can also increase self-confidence and focus. Because taking lessons for the first time can be intimidating, new students should arrive at their martial arts classes well prepared. 

How to Get Ready for Your First Martial Arts Class

1. Don’t Arrive With Preconceived Notions

Many people are familiar with martial arts through film and television. These portrayals are often inaccurate, which leads students to arrive at their first class with misinformation. Leave your opinions at the door, and be willing to face your lessons with an open mind. 

2. Prime Your Body

As with any other physical activity, you should prime your body beforehand. Stretching will help prevent injuries. Also, if you’re not getting enough sleep, chances are you aren’t reaching your full potential. When you’re well rested, you’ll have more energy to tackle your lessons.

3. Research the Style

Whether you’ve signed up for kobudō or karate classes, you’ll benefit from having background knowledge of the specific type of martial art you want to learn. For example, karate involves hand-to-hand techniques while kobudō involves various Okinawan weapons, which is something you should know before showing up for training. Each style also teaches a philosophy to accompany the techniques, often emphasizing discipline and patience. Though people often focus on the “martial” part, martial arts are so named because they’re as much an art as a self-defense method and should be respected as such.

If you’re interested in trying martial arts, Shito-Kai Ohio welcomes you to their dojo. Located in West Chester, OH, this center is led by 8th-degree black belt Hanshi Minobu Miki who has more than four decades of experience. Classes accommodate students of all ages, with beginner lessons available to children as young as seven. They also offer self-defense and weapons training. Learn more about the class schedule online, and call (513) 860-4386 to sign up.