Beginner’s Guide to MMA

What to Expect in Your First Class

Stepping into the world of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) for the first time can feel both exciting and a little intimidating. However, at Sassom MMA, we’re here to make your journey as welcoming and enjoyable as possible. Whether you’re aiming to improve your fitness, learn self-defence, start a new sport, or simply explore a new hobby, MMA offers a challenging yet rewarding experience for everyone. With our free 7-day trial, you can dive into the action risk-free and discover why so many people are hooked on this incredible sport.

What is MMA

Mixed Martial Arts combines techniques from a variety of combat sports, such as Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), Muay Thai, Boxing, Wrestling, and Kickboxing. It’s a full-body workout that develops strength, agility, and endurance while teaching practical skills that are great for self-defence. It’s no wonder that MMA has grown to be so popular around the world.

Before Your First Class

Before arriving at your first session, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Comfortable Clothing: Opt for athletic wear that allows you to move freely, such as shorts and a breathable T-shirt, that have a sung fit. No zippers or metal on the shorts, it preferred that shorts have no pockets as well.
  • Open Mind: Be ready to learn and step outside of your comfort zone.

At Sassom MMA, we provide a welcoming atmosphere where all fitness levels are supported. There’s no need to feel intimidated – everyone was a beginner once!

What Happens in Your First Class?

At SASSOM MMA we make starting easy, we break the elements of MMA into 3 different groups:

  • Brazilian Jiu Jitsu – Gi (Uniform) and NoGi (Fight Shorts and Rashie),
  • Wrestling,
  • Striking – Muay Thai / Kickboxing / Boxing

We recommend trying as many different elements and as many classes as you can during your free trial at SASSOM MMA, some people love it all, others decide they like one or two of the elements of MMA and choose to focus on those.

Whatever disciplines you choose to try or pursue, your first class will introduce you to the basics skills of MMA. The session is designed to be engaging, educational, and suited to all skill levels. Here’s what you can typically expect:

1. Warm-Up

To begin, the instructor will lead the group through a warm-up session. This may include light jogging, skipping, shadow sparring, drills or bodyweight exercises like squats and push-ups. The goal is to loosen up your muscles and get your heart rate going.

2. Technique Drills

Next, you’ll learn fundamental techniques, which may include striking combinations, grappling positions, or basic takedowns, depending on the element your trying. The instructor will demonstrate each move and guide you step-by-step, ensuring you understand the correct form.

3. Partner Work

Partner drills are a big part of MMA training. You’ll practise techniques with a partner, allowing you to get a feel for how the moves work in a real scenario. Don’t worry – it’s all done in a controlled and safe environment.

4. Pad Work or Wrestling

Our striking classes often include Pad Work this is where you have a partner, one person is holding the Thai Pads and the other is hitting the pads. This is a skill that takes time to develop, don’t worry we will teach you and help you learn, most people find Pad Work the best part of and striking discipline.

Our Wrestling and BJJ classes always finish with sparring, in Wrestling we simply call sparring “rounds”, in BJJ we call sparring “rolling”. There is never a requirement that you take part in sparring but we do highly recommend it and we help you ease your way in.

Note: Striking Sparring – Muay Thai, Kickboxing, Boxing

At SASSOM MMA all striking sparring is a seperate class and is optional. If you choose to have a go at striking sparring you need a mouth guard, we recommend a dentist fitted one, 16oz Gloves and Muay Thai shin guards. There are no egos at SASSOM MMA so everyone will help you learn, and contact is light. Our competitive fighters we mix it up a little bit harder with each other, but will also work with you at your level to help you learn.

What Are the Benefits of MMA?

Joining an MMA class offers a wealth of benefits:

  • Improved Fitness: MMA provides a full-body workout, improving cardiovascular health, strength, and flexibility.
  • Stress Relief: Training allows you to channel your energy positively, reducing stress and boosting mental clarity.
  • Self-Defence Skills: You’ll learn practical techniques that can be applied in real-life self-defence situations.
  • Confidence Boost: As you develop your skills, you’ll gain confidence in your abilities both on and off the mat.

Why Choose Sassom Fitness & MMA?

At Sassom Fitness & MMA, we pride ourselves on being a supportive and inclusive gym. Whether you’re completely new to martial arts or have some experience, our expert coaches are dedicated to helping you achieve your goals.

Our free 7-day trial allows you to try out different classes and find the training style that suits you best. During this period, you can explore our Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Wrestling, Muay Thai / Kickboxing, all led by highly skilled instructors.

Tips for Beginners

  • Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask your instructor for clarification – they’re there to help.
  • Pace Yourself: It’s normal to feel tired during your first class. Listen to your body and take breaks as needed.
  • Be Consistent: The key to progress is regular practice. Make a commitment to attend classes consistently, and you’ll see results.

Start Your MMA Journey Today

If you’ve been considering giving MMA a go, there’s no better time to start. At Sassom MMA, we’re passionate about helping beginners build confidence, improve fitness, and develop new skills.

Take advantage of our free 7-day trial to experience the energy and camaraderie of our classes. Whether you’re looking to challenge yourself or simply stay active, we’ll provide the guidance and support you need to succeed.

Step onto the mat, and let Sassom MMA help you unlock your potential – your MMA journey awaits!

The below images are one of SASSOM MMA’ young up and comers, Max Mellor who has been training for 2-years and is now an assistant instructor at SASSOM. You can see all the elements of MMA coming together (Striking, Wrestling and BJJ) to secure the win for Max.

This fight was on Eternal MMA, a local show that streams the main card on UFC Fights Pass, this show was in December 2024.