Nervous about your first kung fu class? That is completely normal. Almost every student who walks through the door for the first time feels the same way. Here is exactly what happens at the Reading School of Martial Arts so you know what to expect before you arrive.
The short version: you will be welcomed, you will not be thrown in at the deep end, and you will leave knowing more than you arrived with. No experience is required. The first class is free.
You do not need to buy a uniform for your first class. Wear comfortable, flexible clothing — tracksuit bottoms and a t-shirt work perfectly. Remove any jewellery before arriving. If you have long hair, tie it back.
Arrive a few minutes early. This gives you time to meet Sifu Wayne, ask any questions you have, and settle in before the class begins.
Hung Gar classes open with a bow. This is not a religious gesture — it is a mark of respect for the training environment, the instructor, and the other students. You will learn what the bow means and how to perform it correctly.
The bow signals that the class has formally begun. From this point, the energy in the room shifts. Students are present and focused.
Every class starts with a structured warm-up. This includes:
The warm-up takes approximately 10-15 minutes. It prepares your body for the demands of training and reduces injury risk. You do not need to be fit to complete it. Sifu Wayne scales intensity to the level of the student.
After the warm-up, beginners are introduced to foundational stances. The horse stance — ma bu — is typically the first technique taught. You stand with your feet wide, knees bent, back straight, and fists held at your hips.
This stance looks simple. Holding it correctly for any length of time is a genuine challenge. That is intentional — the horse stance builds the leg strength, stability, and structural integrity that every other Hung Gar technique depends on.
Do not worry if your legs shake or your knees ache. Every student starts here. The discomfort reduces quickly with consistent training.
Once stances are introduced, you will learn basic striking techniques. These include:
Sifu Wayne explains each technique clearly before you attempt it. You practise slowly at first to develop correct structure before adding speed or power. Correct form matters more than force — especially at this stage.
As the class progresses, you may work briefly with a partner. This is always supervised and always at a pace appropriate for your level. Partner work in a first class is basic — simple blocking and striking combinations — not sparring.
The partner dynamic teaches you something solo drilling cannot: how to read distance, timing, and another person's intention. It is where the practical application of your techniques becomes clear.
Classes finish with a cool-down. This includes static stretching to improve flexibility over time and breathing exercises to settle the body and focus the mind.
The class closes with a bow — mirroring the opening. This gives the session a clear beginning and end. It reinforces the discipline and respect that Hung Gar requires.
Tired. Genuinely worked. But also calm, focused, and — most likely — eager to return.
New students consistently report that their first class was less intimidating and more accessible than they expected. The training environment is supportive. Everyone remembers what it was like to be new.
Progress depends on consistent attendance. Students who attend twice a week develop noticeably faster than those who attend once a week. There is no rush — the curriculum is designed for long-term development.
The first class at the Reading School of Martial Arts is free. Classes are held at Saint Bart's Church, London Road, Reading, RG1 3QA.
Adult classes, children's classes (ages 5-17), and women's classes are all available.
Contact Sifu Wayne to book your place:
Phone: 07916 938105
Email: Sifu@ReadingSchoolOfMartialarts.co.uk
