Thinking about trying Muay Thai but feeling a bit nervous? You are not alone. Almost everyone who walks into a gym for the first time feels the same flutter of “what have I signed up for?” The good news: that feeling fades fast, usually within the first ten minutes. This guide walks you through exactly what happens at your first class at Shin Kick in Guildford, so you know what to expect and can turn up relaxed.
Will I be the only beginner?
No. People start Muay Thai at every age and fitness level, and most classes have a mix of brand-new faces and regulars. You don’t have to be fit, flexible or sporty to begin. You don’t have to be a fighter either. At Shin Kick we welcome all standards, and plenty of our members train purely for fitness, stress relief and a bit of fun after work.
If you’re a parent, a student, or a woman wondering whether you’ll fit in: you will. Muay Thai is for everyone, and a friendly, family atmosphere is something we care about a lot.
What to wear and bring
Keep it simple for your first session:
- Comfortable workout clothes — shorts or leggings and a t-shirt are perfect.
- A water bottle — you’ll want it.
- A small towel — Muay Thai is a good workout and you will sweat.
You don’t need gloves, wraps or any kit to start. Come as you are, see if you enjoy it, and worry about equipment later. Bare feet are normal on the mats, so no special footwear is needed.
What actually happens in the class
Every coach runs things slightly differently, but a typical beginner-friendly Muay Thai class follows a familiar shape:
1. Warm-up
You’ll start by getting your body moving and your heart rate up. Expect skipping, light movement and some stretching. It eases you in and helps prevent niggles.
2. Technique
This is the heart of the class. A coach breaks down a few moves — maybe a jab, a kick or some footwork — and shows you how to do them step by step. You’ll go slowly. Nobody expects it to look pretty on day one.
3. Pad work or partner drills
You’ll practise what you’ve learned, often with a partner holding pads. This is where it clicks and where it gets genuinely fun. Your partner is on your side; they want you to get it right just as much as you do.
4. Cool-down
A gentle wind-down and stretch to finish. You’ll leave tired in a good way.
Do I have to spar or get hit?
This is the big worry for most beginners, so let’s settle it: no. As a beginner you are learning technique, not fighting. Sparring is something people only do later, by choice, once they’re comfortable and ready. You set the pace. If you ever feel unsure about anything, tell your coach — that’s exactly what they’re there for.
Will I be able to keep up?
Go at your own speed. It is completely fine to take a breather, ask for a move to be repeated, or sit something out. Our coaches are used to teaching complete beginners and will adjust things to suit you. With 16 coaches across the timetable, there’s always someone close by to help you feel settled. The only goal for your first class is to give it a go and enjoy it.
A few small tips to feel at ease
- Arrive about ten minutes early so you can find us, get changed and settle in.
- Introduce yourself to the coach when you arrive — they’ll point you in the right direction.
- Don’t compare yourself to anyone else. Everyone in the room was a beginner once.
- Expect to mess up. That’s how everyone learns. Have a laugh with it.
Finding us
Shin Kick Martial Arts & Fitness Centre is at Weyford House, 21/22 Woodbridge Meadows, Guildford, Surrey GU1 1BA — around a ten-minute walk from Guildford town centre and the mainline station, so it’s easy to reach by train. We’re a full-time gym with three matted areas, open Monday to Friday 09:00–21:00 and Saturday and Sunday 09:00–14:00. If you’re driving or have any questions before you come, give us a ring on 01483 578358.
Your first class is free
The best way to find out if Muay Thai is for you is to try it. Your first class at Shin Kick is completely free, with no pressure and no commitment. Come along, give it a go, and see how you feel afterwards. Whether you fall in love with the sport or simply discover a brilliant new way to get fit, you’ll be glad you took the first step.
Ready to give it a try? Book your free trial class at Shin Kick in Guildford and we’ll see you on the mats.