Start MMA
Your first MMA class, from the door to the mat
Book an adult fundamentals class and tell the coach it is your first time. Your first job is to learn the starting position, the goal of the drill and how either partner stops it.
On this page
Before you leave home
Ask whether the booking is a taught class or an open mat. An open mat usually gives members practice time without a beginner lesson. Ask what the session covers and whether the club has clean loan equipment for that session.
Pack pocketless training clothes, water, a towel and footwear for leaving the mat. Remove rings, watches and piercings before class. If you cannot remove an item, tell the coach before taking a partner.
When the coach demonstrates
Find a spot where you can see both sets of feet. Look first at the starting distance, then at where each person finishes. If you miss a grip, ask for another look before trying to copy it.
In a first clinch drill, for instance, one person might find inside arm position and both might pause there. Establish who starts, whether resistance is allowed and when to swap. A clean reset counts as a good rep.
Stop signals come before resistance
Ask the coach to demonstrate a physical tap and a clear verbal stop. Release immediately when either happens, even if you think you have barely applied pressure. Never wait for your partner to explain the tap.
Take one thing home
Write down the name of the position and the one correction that changed your balance or distance. Ask which class repeats that skill. One dependable cue is easier to use next time than a list of moves you cannot place.