Starting martial arts can be exciting—but also a little intimidating if you don’t know what to expect. Whether you’re joining karate, taekwondo, jiu-jitsu, judo, or any other discipline, your first class is all about learning the basics and getting comfortable in a new environment.

This beginner’s guide will walk you through exactly what will happen, how to prepare, and how to get the most out of your very first martial arts experience.

1. A Warm Welcome and Quick Introduction

Most martial arts schools are friendly and welcoming. When you arrive:

An instructor or assistant will greet you
You may fill out a short form
They’ll explain how the class works
You’ll be introduced to other students

This helps break the ice and makes you feel at ease right away.

2. Learning Dojo Etiquette

Every martial arts school has its own traditions. During your first class, you’ll learn basic etiquette such as:

How to bow when entering or leaving the mat
Where to stand or line up
Respectful behavior toward instructors and classmates
Simple commands used during training

Don’t worry—beginners aren’t expected to get everything perfect on day one.

3. A Gentle Warm-Up to Prepare Your Body

Before the real training starts, you’ll go through a warm-up. This typically includes:

Stretching
Light cardio (jogging, jumping jacks)
Mobility exercises
Basic body conditioning

The goal is to loosen your muscles, improve blood flow, and reduce the risk of injury.

4. Introduction to Basic Techniques

Your instructor will introduce foundational movements based on the martial art you’re studying:

Karate / Taekwondo: stances, blocks, simple punches, and kicks
Judo / BJJ: breakfalls, hip movements, simple grips
Muay Thai / Kickboxing: stance, footwork, straight punches, basic kicks

These techniques will be slow, simple, and beginner-friendly. No pressure, no expectation to be perfect.

5. Practicing with a Partner or by Yourself

Depending on the class, you may:

Practice moves alone (“shadow”)
Work with a partner
Try drills with pads or shields

Partner work is controlled and safe. Instructors will pair you with someone who is experienced or gentle.

6. Encouragement, Guidance, and Lots of Help

Instructors understand that beginners are nervous. Expect:

Step-by-step demonstrations
Clear guidance
Correction in a supportive way
Encouragement when you get something right

Martial arts instructors are trained to help you progress at your own pace.

7. A Cool-Down and Final Bow

At the end of class, you’ll do a short cool-down and bow out as a sign of respect. Sometimes instructors give:

A motivational message
Tips for practice
Guidance on what to expect next time

This helps you leave feeling inspired and confident.

8. You’ll Probably Feel Tired—But in a Good Way

A first martial arts class uses muscles and movements that may be new to you. It’s normal to:

Feel sore
Be more tired than usual
Sweat a lot (everyone does!)

This is part of the journey. With each class, your endurance increases.

9. You Do NOT Need to Be Fit or Flexible

Many beginners feel shy because they think martial arts require fitness or flexibility. The truth?

Martial arts GET you fit. You don’t need to start fit.

Everyone begins as a beginner.

10. You’ll Walk Out Feeling Proud

Most students leave their first class feeling:

Accomplished
Motivated
A little tired
Excited for the next class

The hardest part is walking through the door—everything else becomes fun.

Final Thoughts

Your first martial arts class is all about learning the basics, meeting new people, and understanding the flow of training. There’s no pressure to be perfect. Every black belt started exactly where you are: as a beginner.

Beginner’s Guide: What to Expect in Your First Martial Arts Class