Before Your First Class

Everything you need to know before you arrive at Martial Health & Fitness.

The short version

  • Comfortable clothes you can train in — no uniform needed.
  • A full drink bottle.
  • Shoes that are easy to slip off. Shoes come off on the mats.
  • Leave jewellery and watches at home.
  • Gloves and shin guards are provided for your trial.
  • Arrive about 10 minutes early.

Tap any question to see the answer.

What should I wear and bring?

Wear comfortable clothes you can move and train in. Most people come to their first class wearing a t-shirt and shorts or leggings. You don't need a uniform for your trial.

Please bring:

  • A full drink bottle.
  • Shoes that are easy to remove.
  • A positive attitude and a willingness to learn.
Do I need my own boxing gloves or shin guards?

No. If you don't have your own equipment yet, don't worry — we'll provide boxing gloves and shin guards for your trial class.

If you decide to continue training with us, you'll eventually need your own equipment for hygiene, safety and personal fit. Our team will happily recommend suitable equipment when you're ready.

What happens when I arrive?

Please arrive about 10 minutes early. This gives you time to check in, meet your instructor and settle in before class begins.

Simply let us know it's your first class and we'll introduce you to the group and explain everything before you start.

I've never done martial arts before. Will I keep up?

Absolutely. Our trial classes are designed for beginners. You'll work at your own pace and our instructors will make sure you're comfortable throughout the session.

Nobody expects you to know anything. We're here to teach you.

What if I have an injury or something doesn't feel right?

Please tell your instructor before class begins if you have any injuries or concerns.

If something changes during training, stop immediately and let your instructor know. There is never any pressure to push through pain.

What are the main training rules?

To help keep everyone safe:

  • Remove your shoes before stepping onto the mats.
  • Leave jewellery and watches at home, or remove them before training.
  • Stay in control when training with your partner.
  • If your partner asks you to ease off, do so immediately.
  • Ask questions — we'd much rather explain something twice than have you guess.
Can I wear religious or cultural items?

Yes. Items worn for religious or cultural reasons are always welcome.

Please let your instructor know before class so they can be made safe for training.

Anything else I should know?

Most importantly — relax and enjoy yourself. Everyone in the gym was new once.

Our instructors and members are here to help, and we want your first experience at Martial to be enjoyable, safe and welcoming. We look forward to meeting you.

A Little About Martial

At Martial Health & Fitness, we believe martial arts is about far more than learning to fight.

It's about building confidence, discipline, resilience and respect.

We welcome people of all ages and backgrounds, and we're proud to be a family-focused academy where everyone deserves to feel safe, supported and challenged.

Everything we ask of our members exists for one reason: to protect the culture we've worked hard to build.

Martial Health & Fitness · Papakura