What Should I Expect In My First Kickboxing Class?
A Beginner's Guide
Article by : Zawen Anwar
Kickboxing Master Trainer, Combat Strength and Conditioning Specialist, ACE CPT
- What Should I Expect in My First Kickboxing Class?
Walking into your first kickboxing class can be exciting—but it’s also completely normal to feel a little nervous.
Many beginners wonder:
- Will I be fit enough?
- Will I have to spar?
- What should I wear?
- What if I’ve never done martial arts before?
The good news is that everyone starts somewhere. At Gloves & Glory, we welcome beginners of all fitness levels and backgrounds. Our goal is to help you learn, improve, and enjoy the process in a safe and supportive environment.
If you’re thinking about trying kickboxing for the first time, here’s exactly what you can expect.
2. Before You Arrive
For your first class, keep things simple.
What to Wear
Comfortable workout attire is all you need:
- T-shirt or sports top
- Shorts or training pants
- Suitable hijabwear
- Water bottle
- Towel
If you already own hand wraps or gloves, bring them along. If not, don’t worry—our coaches can advise you on the equipment you’ll need as you progress.
Arrive Early
Try to arrive 10 – 15 minutes before class starts.
This gives you time to:
- Meet the coach
- Complete any registration
- Get familiar with the gym
- Ask any questions you may have
Remember, no one expects you to know everything on day one.
3. The Warm-Up
Every class begins with a warm-up designed to prepare your body for training.
You may perform:
- Light Shadow box
- Dynamic stretching
- Mobility exercises
- Bodyweight movements
The warm-up helps:
- Increase heart rate
- Improve joint mobility
- Reduce injury risk
- Prepare your muscles for movements and exercise
Don’t worry if you get tired, take your time and work at your own pace.
4. Learning the Fundamentals
Your first class will focus on basic techniques rather than advanced combinations.
You’ll likely learn:
Basic Stance
The stance is the foundation of kickboxing.
You’ll learn:
- Proper foot positioning
- Balance and posture
- Hand positioning
- How to move safely
Basic Punches
Most beginners start with:
- Jab
- Cross
- Hook
- Uppercut
Your coach will demonstrate each technique and help you develop proper form.
Basic Kicks
Depending on the class structure, you may also learn:
- Front Kick
- Roundhouse Kick
- Knee Strike
The focus will be on technique rather than power.
Our fundamental is
- First learn : TECHNIQUE
- Then get the : FLOW
- Once you get to know the techniques, increase : SPEED
- Then gradually increase : POWER
5. Pad Work and Drills
One of the most enjoyable parts of kickboxing is hitting pads.
You may work with:
- Punching bag
- Focus mitts
- Thai pads
- Kick shields
Punching bag and pad work helps develop:
- Coordination
- Timing
- Accuracy
- Confidence
- Endurance
Don’t worry if you miss a target or forget a combination. Learning is part of the process.
Every experienced kickboxer was once a beginner.
6. Fitness and Conditioning
Kickboxing is known for being an incredible workout.
Most classes include bodyweight conditioning exercises such as:
- Squats
- Push-ups
- Planks
- Sit-ups
- Burpees
- Core exercises
The intensity can usually be adjusted to suit your fitness level.
The goal isn’t to exhaust you, it’s to help you gradually improve your strength and endurance over time.
7. Will I Have to Spar?
One of the most common questions beginners ask is:
“Will I have to fight someone?”
The answer is simple:
NO.
At Gloves & Glory, beginners are not expected to spar during their first class.
Your first sessions are focused on:
- Learning technique
- Building fitness
- Developing confidence
- Understanding safety
Sparring is optional and only introduced when students are ready.
8. Expect to Make Mistakes
Your first class is not about being perfect. You can’t be Bruce Lee in 1 day, remember that.
Your training It’s all about:
- Learning something new
- Having fun
- Challenging yourself
You may:
- Forget combinations
- Lose balance occasionally
- Feel awkward at first
- Out of breath
That’s completely normal. Improvement comes through practice and consistency.
9. Expect a Great Workout
Many first-time students are surprised by how much of the body kickboxing uses.
You’ll work:
- Upper Body
- Lower Body
- Core
Don’t be surprised if you’re a little sore the next day. That’s completely normal if you’re a beginners.
This is simply your body adapting to new movements and challenges.
10. The Benefits Begin Immediately
Even after your first class, many people notice:
- Increased energy
- Reduced stress
- Improved mood, you’ll be happier after class.
- Greater confidence
- A sense of accomplishment
Kickboxing isn’t just about fitness, it’s about becoming a stronger version of yourself.
Master Tips for Your First Class
DO | DONT |
Arrive early | Compare yourself to others |
Bring water | Worry about making mistakes |
Listen to your coach | Try to go too hard too soon |
Focus on technique before power | Be afraid to ask questions |
Just have fun | Rushing to learn every movement |
Join the Gloves & Glory Family
Starting something new can feel intimidating, but your first kickboxing class could be the beginning of an incredible journey.
Whether your goal is:
- Weight loss
- Improving your fitness level
- Self-defense
- Gain confidence
- Aiming to compete
Our coaches are here to support you every step of the way.
At Gloves & Glory, we pride ourselves on creating a welcoming environment where beginners feel comfortable, motivated, and empowered to succeed.
The hardest part are always taking the first step. Let us guide you.
Book your first class today and discover why so many people fall in love with kickboxing.
