Getting Started
Whether you are looking to start a martial art for the first time, or you are coming back to the arts after some time away, you are starting a journey that people have taken for 1000s of years. People start martial arts for all sorts of reasons, including:
- To get fitter
- Self defence
- To gain confidence
- Spiritual reasons
- Inspired by film and TV
- Become a Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fighter
Whatever your reasons, it is important that you find the art and the class that is right for you. That's where we at Bear Martial Arts are here to help!
Which Martial Art Is Right For You?
Each martial art is very different. They concentrate on different styles of fighting, different styles of fitness. Some are more spiritual than others. Some are more hands on than others. The first questions you need to ask yourself are:
- Why am I starting a martial art?
- Do I want to learn more kicking, punching or throwing?
- Do I want a very hands on martial art, or something a little more relaxed?
Once you know the answers to the above, we suggest you read through our Martial Arts Styles section. Here you will learn all about the different arts, watch videos, and can compare each one to what you are looking to get out of your training.
Finding a Martial Arts Club
So you have an idea of which art (or arts) you want to try. Now you need to find a club near you. Luckily our site has the perfect free tool to help you with this. Simply use our Club Locator Map to find the clubs in your area.
Once you know where the clubs near to you are, you can go along and try them out.
Picking The Right Club and Martial Art
It is important that you feel relaxed, safe and secure at whichever club you choose, and in whichever art you train. Training in martial arts can be tough, especially if your goal is a black belt, so you need to be happy in the environment, and you need to make sure that you enjoy it!
When you visit a club, chat with the students and with the instructor. It's important that you like the "feel" of the club, as you will be trusting these people when it comes to training with them.
Also, don't sign up to any long term financial commitment until you are 100% sure that it is the club for you. More and more clubs are adopting long term membership plans, which can be quite pricey up front, so do not financially commit yourself until you are happy.
Check out our guide to finding the right martial arts club for you here.
What To Take To Class
To your very first class wear loose clothing, and be prepared to train in either bare feet or in trainers. Also, bring water! Staying hydrated when training is essential, especially if you are currently out of shape. Once you are started you can chat to your instructor about what you need in the more long term.
Good luck with your training, we are sure that it will be an exciting adventure! If you ever have any questions about anything to do with your training, our team are more than happy to help. Simply post your questions below, or email us at team@bearmartialarts.com if you would like a more private response, and one of our experienced team will happily respond.
