Beginner-Friendly First Class — What to Expect
For Kids and Parents
Children will be welcomed into a structured, age and/or skill-appropriate class with students of different experience levels. They’ll learn some basic dojo etiquette, join the warm-up and practise introductory movements, coordination drills/games and pad techniques.
The instructor will explain activities as the class progresses. No previous experience is expected, and children will not be placed into contact sparring during their trial class.
Parents are welcome to stay for the first class when their child needs the reassurance. When possible, however, we encourage parents to let their child participate independently. Trying something new without a parent beside them is a small but valuable part of developing confidence and independence.
Give them permission to have fun, make mistakes and not know everything immediately. Looking a little awkward while learning new movements is perfectly normal—even for the grown-ups.
For Teens and Adults
You don’t need previous martial-arts experience or a particular level of fitness. Classes include beginners and experienced students training together, so you’ll have people to learn from and often other newer students learning alongside you.
Your first class will normally include basic etiquette, warm-ups, fitness and coordination drills, fundamental karate movements, combinations and pad work. Depending on the class, you may also practise introductory fighting or self-defence techniques on pads.
Some movements will feel unfamiliar at first. That doesn’t mean you’re doing badly—it means you’re learning to use your body differently. Coordination, fitness and body awareness develop through regular practice.
You will not be expected to spar in your first class. Contact training is introduced later, when you have developed the necessary skills and understand how to train safely.
Before You Arrive
- Wear comfortable clothes that allow you to move freely; a karate uniform is not needed.
- Bring a water bottle and arrive about 10 minutes early.
- Training is done barefoot, so outdoor footwear is left outside the training area.
- Tell the instructor about any injuries, medical concerns or support needs before class.
- Parents who leave during a child’s class should remain reachable and return before the class finishes.
Choose Your Class and Time
Select the appropriate class and complete the short registration form
below. Your first class is free and there is no obligation to enrol.
Having trouble with the form?
Open the free-trial registration form