Starting a martial arts practice can be a daunting task, especially if you're new to the world of martial arts or if you're feeling intimidated by the idea of learning something new.
Maybe you've always wanted to start training and learning practical self-defense skills, but something is holding you back...
Beyond the benefits for personal safety, martial arts a great way to get in shape and improve your overall health. Plus it's also an incredibly rewarding and fulfilling practice that can help you build confidence, discipline, and self-esteem.
With the right mindset and a bit of motivation, anyone can start a martial arts practice and begin reaping the many benefits it has to offer.
Let's explore some tips and strategies for getting started practicing your martial arts, from finding the right school or instructor to setting goals and staying motivated.
Evaluate your interests and set clear goals: Setting clear goals will help you stay motivated and focused. But first you need to understand what will drive your motivation. Are you primarily interested in learning self-defense? Are you looking for fun way to get in shape? Are you looking to develop self-confidence and discipline? Do you want a particular type of community to practice with? If you know what you want, you'll have more success in finding the right place to train.
Find the right school and instructor that aligns with your goals and interests. At Fight Flow Academy, our approach emphasizes the following:
Practical mixed martial arts skills that work in the real world, and in competition.
A supportive community of instructors and students who help each other learn and improve in the spirit of friendship.
A fully-equipped 24-hour fitness facility so students can achieve all of their training goals at any time of day.
A curriculum that is centered on the specific disciplines of Brazilian Jiujitsu, Muay Thai, Western Boxing and Kickboxing, and practical self-defense.
Flexible training that allows students to focus on their own goals. Students can pursue a highly technical program to maximize skills development, or focus on martial arts-infused fitness and HIIT classes. On the other hand, we do not follow a strictly traditional methodology. Therefore, we have less emphasis on belts (though we do promote belts in Jiujitsu) and the more ritualistic aspects of some martial arts programs.
Once you start, be consistent and patient: Starting a martial arts practice requires consistency and patience. Focus on getting your body to class regularly — once you are there the training takes care of itself! Practice regularly, and be open to learning new techniques and concepts. Remember, martial arts is a journey, not a destination. You will not master it overnight and that's okay. The key is to keep moving forward and to enjoy the process.
Remember that everyone starts at the same level, and nobody is judging you: Nobody is born knowing how to perform a roundhouse kick or an arm lock. Everyone starts as a beginner, and everyone goes through the process of learning and improving. It's easy to feel self-conscious or intimidated when you're new to a martial arts class, but remember that everyone else in the class is in the same boat. Nobody is judging you for not knowing the techniques or for making mistakes. Everyone is there to learn and to improve.
Stay motivated! This is crucial. There will be days when it is hard to stay motivated, but remind yourself why you started your martial arts practice. Whether it's to get in shape, learn self-defense, or gain confidence, keep your goals in mind and remind yourself of the benefits you're gaining from your practice. There are countless ways to cultivate your own motivation and resilience. Setting goals and tracking progress will help. Your fellow students will also continually reinforce your motivation. Be sure to create variety in your training routine by attending different classes, working with new styles and techniques. Train with a variety of partners to get new perspectives and keep your learning fresh and stimulating.
Lastly, your martial arts practice should push you to grow, and it should be fun! Stay loose, bring your focused attention, and enjoy the friends you make during your martial arts journey.
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