Do's and Don'ts of Joining a Martial Art

We are on our way home from Jasper and were discussing our Ju Jitsu class we are teaching later on today. It got me thinking about all the new kids we have coming into our class and some new adults we will be seeing in our adult classes.  I've decided to write a list of Do's and Don'ts of Joining a Martial Art class. Now it can be any Martial art so this is a general list.

1. DO some research into the styles you are interested in and compare to your personal capabilities. For example if you are out of shape and have little experience then maybe join a beginner kickboxing class that will give you a good fitness base. Or if you know you have a bad back, then Judo may not be the best option at first because it involves throws and falling on your back. 

1. DON'T assume all martial arts are the same. There are many different styles out there that include different ways of fighting. Some focus on stand up, throws, striking or grappling. Each that are originated in different parts of the world and include different types of fighting.

2. DO wear comfortable clothing that you can move in. Depending on what type of Martial Art it is, you may need to buy a uniform. But for the first few classes, sweats, sport bra (if you're a girl), and a t-shirt will do just fine. 

2. DON'T wear jewelry (earrings, facial piercings, necklaces, etc), low cut tops, or short shorts. You will be moving lots and in close contact with people. The last thing you'll want is to catch your nose ring on someone's shirt or a nip slip or show your ass to the whole class. Keep it classy!

3. DO shower and look after personal hygiene before class. No one wants to work with the person who smells like bad BO. Hair should be tied back in braid, pony tail, bun, etc. 

3. DON'T wear lots of makeup (preferably none!) perfume/cologne (because of allergies), etc.  You'll be sweating so you don't want your makeup running on your face or your partners uniform. It's impossible to get makeup out of a Gi (Ju Jitsu or Judo uniform). 

4. DO Try your best. Even if you're scared or unsure, just give it a shot. You're not going to be an expert right away. You will be surprised how well you can do if you push yourself. 

4.  DON'T be overconfident.  These types of people are most likely to get hurt.  They think they can do it all and most of the time they end up hurting themselves or others. 

5. DO ask questions. The teachers are there to instruct you. Ask them so you can understand how to do something or find out more information.

5. DON'T talk the whole time. There is nothing more annoying for a teacher than explaining something and having someone make you repeat yourself because they were talking. It's very disrespectful!

6.  DO be prepared to be sore after your first few classes. You're trying something your body is not used to, expect some muscle soreness.

6.  DON'T get discouraged by your soreness or lack of fitness. It WILL get better, you just have to work at it and stick with it! You will be amazed at your abilities!

And a bonus one that should be common sense, but you'd be surprised!

7. DO respect your teacher and higher ranks!  Do the drills you were shown to do, practice lots and show up on time. 

7. DON'T be disrespectful. Don't say things like "I already know that." Or "will that really work" or my favourite "but if I did this, your move wouldn't work". That's just being a dick, and no instructor wants those types of people in their class

    Myself in my Gi (yes, that belt is black!)

Practicing a move at a seminar