If you’re interested in trying out a kickboxing or muay thai class, there’s a few things you’ll want to know before you get started.

Last week, I wrote an article on what I’ve learnt from my first few months of training (Introduction to Kickboxing, Muay Thai & Boxing). My first article touched very briefly on how to get started but a lot the feedback I’ve received is to expand on that part of the article.

What is kickboxing?

Kickboxing is pretty self explanatory, it’s boxing that incorporates kicks. There’s a few styles of Kickboxing, American kickboxing incorporates boxing and kicks that are only above the waist, it’s very similar to full contact Karate. Savate or French Kickboxing, incorporates boxing and kicks that only make contact with the feet and there are a few other styles that have rules that vary slightly.

Some fitness clubs have “kickboxing” classes for fitness, these are basically hight intensity cardio classes that incorporate some punching and kicks.

What is Muay Thai?

Muay Thai is the “art of eight limbs”, Muay Thai fighters incorporate their hands, knees, elbows and legs. Muay Thai is the national sport of Thailand and it was created in the 19th century and has been evolving ever since.

If the classes you’re taking include elbows, knees, clinches etc. you’re essentially doing Muay Thai or a variation of it. Traditional Muay Thai gyms uphold Thai traditions such as instructors being reffered to as “Kru”, headbands and armbands are blessed and are used during fights, pre-fight rituals etc. MMA gyms typically use all of the techniques of Muay Thai but do not incorporate the Thai traditions of the martial art.

Where to start training

First things first, you’ll want to decide what you’re interested in learning. If you’re looking to learn Kickboxing/Muay Thai specificcally for MMA, you’ll want to join your local MMA gym. If you have no interest in grappling and you want to exclusively train Kickboxing/Muay Thai, you should join a gym that focuses on those disciplines.

If you live in a small city or town, there may not be a Muay Thai club and in that case, most MMA gyms will have classes in their schedule that are exclusively Muay Thai/Kickboxing.

Your First Class

Once you’ve decided on where you’ll be taking your first class, there’s a few things you should know before you step into the gym.

Do some research online. It’s a really good idea to get some basic knowledge of boxing and kicking before you start. I’d recommend having basic knowledge of what a jab, cross, hook, upper-cut is and to know what a roundhouse kick and push kick is. That way, there’s a lot less confusion for you on your first day. Try and bring a partner. Your first class is a lot less intimidating when you have a partner that’s also in their first class. Another great option is to go with someone who’s already a member. Going with someone you know helps but if that’s not an option, don’t let that stop you. Bring appropriate clothing. Most kickboxing/Muay Thai classes are extremely fast paced and will push your cardio to the limit. You’ll want to wear comfortable/flexible shorts or tights and a light top. I recommend a change of clothes for after your class and to shower afterwards. Let your coach know it’s your first class. Introduce yourself to your instructor(s) and let them know it’s your first class. If it’s a good gym, they’ll pay special attention to you and show you the basics throughout your first class. Stretch out before and after class. Your body is not used to punching or kicking and unless you stretch before and after your class, you’ll be feeling it the next day. Ask questions if you have them. Don’t be afraid to ask your instructor(s) questions but also don’t overwhelm them during class. If you have a lot of questions, work through the drills in the class and ask the bigger questions after class. Private lessons can go a long way. Many people at my gym take one or several private lessons to get their fundamentals in order before taking group classes. I don’t think it’s essential but if you can afford it, it will certainly help. Don’t be discouraged and have fun! Your technique will be awful and you’ll feel as though you’re miles behind everyone else in your class but don’t be discouraged. Most of the people around you in class have only been training for a few months and with hard work you’ll be at their level in no time. You’ll most likely be hooked after your first class and you just have to fall in love with the learning process.

Martial Arts are very humbling and they give you a very honest return on your investment. If you work your ass off, you’ll see great results and they’ll happen pretty quickly. If you train once a week and don’t listen to your instructors/partner’s feedback, you’ll have a very slow progression.

After my first class, I was absolutely exhausted and I was completely hooked. Within a week I had purchased boxing gloves, thai shorts, shin guards etc. and I’ve been going nearly every day for months now. I learn something new every class and training has truly changed me for the better.