This year, you decided to finally subscribe to a Kung Fu School; you can feel mixed excitement and anxiety about what to expect from your first class! That is completely normal as you are approaching a new discipline and have some expectations such as discipline, physical exercise and anxiety relief. Kung Fu is a practice that combines physical training with a solid philosophy, which can bring you more than other sports combat. This article will break down what you can expect in most classical Kung Fu classes to prepare you for your first class at Kung Fu school,
Presentation and warm-up
As a new student, you must meet with your instructor, who will introduce you to another fellow. This step is essential to familiarise yourself with the environment and people. Your instructor will tell you about the place and put you at ease in the group. They will show you how to bow when entering the training area to show respect to your practice environment and surroundings. Like most physical practice classes, you will begin with a warm-up to prepare your body for the training with stretching, basic exercises and light cardio.
Basic techniques learning
Every beginner should start with basic techniques independent of their experience in other martial arts. Your instructor will teach you foundational stances like horse stance and bow stance. Mastering those basic stances is crucial for your balance and strength. Once your instructor teaches you about stance, it will add basic strikes and blocks that Kung Fu students first learn. Your instructor will focus on breathing techniques and teach you how to coordinate your breathing and movements.
Forms or Kata
One of Kung Fu’s specificities is the Forms, a sequence of movement that stimulates combat against imaginary opponents. These forms are called Kata. You will be slowly introduced to a simple form, and you can focus on memorising the sequence before executing it with precision.
Partner drills
You will practice some basic drills with a classmate to learn about controlled techniques such as blocking and counter-attacking. These techniques help develop timing and coordination. When working with a partner, the focus is on safety so you can practice with someone without causing harm.
Cool down and reflection.
The last part of your class is an essential cold down that will include stretching to release tension built up in your muscles, meditation to develop your attention to the present moment, and breathing exercises.
Those moments are essential to integrate the practice you just done and reflect on your experience.
What to bring and where
Come to your first class with adequate clothes, such as loose-fitting clothes that allow for easy movements. If the school sticks to traditional Kung Fu, you may get a uniform after you sign up. You will not need shoes, as Kung Fu is practised barefoot. Of course, bring some water to stay hydrated during your practice.
Mindset
Attend your kung fu class with respect and humility toward the discipline you are willing to learn. Martial arts, in general, teach respect for oneself and others and encourage each student to stay humble on the mat. Keep your expectations and goals reachable so you won’t be discouraged by the first moves; patience and perseverance are required for you to enjoy your kung fu class.
After class
Your instructor may offer a moment of feedback so you can ask your questions or share your experience. Take advantage of this moment to start building a trustworthy relationship with your classmates and structure, seek advice from experienced practitioners and learn more about the Kung Fu school.
