First Class Questions

First timers often have similar questions about what to expect for their first class.

We’ll try to answer some of them here:

How do I start?

TaeKwonDo Classes Chesapeake

First, check our programs and schedule page and decide which class you would like to attend. Then go to our Contact page and make an appointment for a trial class.

Plan to arrive 10 – 15 minutes before your class begins. We will meet with you then, answer any questions you may have and show you around the facility, this may take up to 15 minutes.

What equipment do I need to bring?

For your first class, all you will need are some sweat pants and a t-shirt.  At the end of class we will advise you on the equipment you will need for your chosen program.  All of our classes are conducted on a matted area and practice is done barefoot.

Jewelry is not to be worn while training. This includes earrings, rings, necklaces, watches, etc.  It could get broken or possibly injure you or another student.  Please bring a duffel bag or backpack to put your belongings in and store it on our bag shelves.

We encourage bringing your own water bottle that can be filled up at our water station.

Any advice?

To the average person, the first class can be overwhelming with new information.  Plus, everyone in the class seems to know what they are doing except you.  But, if you relax, listen to your instructor, follow along, and just accept that this is a part of beginning a new experience, you’ll find that training at Virginia TaeKwonDo and Jiu-Jitsu Academy will be as rewarding as it is challenging.  Soon, with consistent practice, Virginia TaeKwonDo Instructorsyou too will know what you are doing.

Most people who have never trained in a Martial Art usually don’t understand the code of ethics inside a Martial Arts school.  Here are a few things to keep in mind when you get started:

  • Be respectful ~ One of the most important aspects is having respect for the instructors, the academy and everyone else inside it.  Upon arriving and before you do anything else, shake hands and introduce yourself to the front desk, the instructor, as well as other students.
  • Listen and try your best ~ Come to class with open ears and an open mind.
  • Watch and Learn ~ Follow along with what other students that have been there for a while are doing.  If you have any questions, please ask at appropriate time.
  • Pace yourself ~ For two reasons ~ 1) Combat sports are very physically demanding, so to avoid injury you will need to take a little bit of time to acclimate. 2) Training in the academy is not a life or death situation.  Everyone is there to learn safely and not get hurt.  You will be asked to sit out and possibly leave if you can not control yourself.
  • Good attitude ~ A positive attitude is an absolute key to success.  Bring it with you and you will see!

When the class is over and before you leave it’s respectful to walk up to the instructor to shake hands and thank them for the lesson.  Next head over to the front desk to discuss what you thought of the class and what you would like to do next and we will take it from there.

See you soon!

Set up your Trial Class Here