Thinking about trying Muay Thai but feeling a bit nervous? You’re in good company. Almost everyone who walks through the doors at Shin Kick for the first time feels the same way. The good news: that feeling fades fast. This guide walks you through your first month, step by step, so you know exactly what to expect before you even book.
You don’t have to be fit, sporty, or “a fighter” to start. You just have to turn up.
What is Muay Thai, really?
Muay Thai is a striking martial art from Thailand, sometimes called “the art of eight limbs” because you learn to use your fists, elbows, knees and shins. But here’s what matters for you as a beginner: at its heart, it’s a brilliant full-body workout that also teaches you genuine skill. You’ll move better, feel stronger, and pick up something new every session.
At Shin Kick, you don’t have to be a fighter to train with us. Most people come to get fit, build confidence, and enjoy themselves. That’s exactly what the classes are built around.
Before your first class
A few simple things to sort out, and none of them are a big deal.
What to wear. Comfortable gym kit is perfect to start. Shorts or leggings and a t-shirt, plus a water bottle. You don’t need to buy special clothing for your first session.
What you don’t need yet. Don’t rush out and buy gloves, wraps or shin guards before you’ve tried it. The gym can point you in the right direction once you know you’re enjoying it. Spend your first class finding your feet, not your wallet.
Arrive a little early. Give yourself ten minutes to find us, say hello, and settle in. Shin Kick is at Weyford House, 21/22 Woodbridge Meadows, Guildford GU1 1BA — about a ten-minute walk from Guildford town centre and the mainline station. If you’re driving or getting the train, that’s an easy trip.
Tell the coach you’re new. This is the single most useful thing you can do. The coaches are used to first-timers and will keep an eye on you, slow things down, and make sure you’re never lost.
What actually happens in a beginner session
Every class is a little different, but the shape is usually familiar:
- A warm-up to get your body moving and your heart rate up.
- Technique where you learn or practise a few moves — a jab, a kick, how to stand.
- Pad work or partner drills where you put it into practice with a partner holding pads. This is the fun part.
- A cool-down to finish.
You go at your own pace. Nobody expects you to be good on day one. You’ll throw a few clumsy punches, laugh at yourself, and already feel a bit better by the end. That’s completely normal.
The first-month nerves (and why they fade)
“I’ll be the worst one there.” Everyone starts somewhere, and the room is full of people who were once exactly where you are. Shin Kick welcomes all standards and all ages, and the atmosphere is friendly and family-feeling on purpose.
“Will I get hurt?” Beginner training is about learning control, not getting hit. You build up slowly. Partner drills are cooperative, not combative.
“I’m not fit enough.” You get fitter by coming, not before you come. The classes are for all levels. You’ll be surprised how quickly your stamina improves over a month.
By your third or fourth session, the room starts to feel familiar. You’ll recognise faces, know where the kit lives, and stop worrying about looking silly. That’s the moment it clicks.
Membership and prices, kept simple
Your first class is free, so you can try it with zero commitment. After that, here’s how it works:
- Adult Muay Thai (18+): £90/month
- Student Muay Thai (14–17): £75/month
- Junior Muay Thai (5–13): £60/month
- Pay-as-you-go: £15 per class
A Muay Thai membership covers all Muay Thai classes plus use of the gym during opening hours. There’s a one-off £25 joining fee, and direct debit is the standard payment method. If you’d rather dip in occasionally, pay-as-you-go is there for you.
We’re open Monday to Friday 09:00–21:00, and Saturday and Sunday 09:00–14:00, with three matted areas, so there’s plenty of room and plenty of times to fit around your week.
A small extra for sore legs
Your shins and legs might feel it after your first few sessions — that’s part of the journey. Many members swear by Athlon Muay Thai Rub, a liniment made for exactly this, at £25 per 100ml bottle. Handy to have in your bag from week two onwards.
Ready to give it a go?
The hardest part is the decision to start. After that, the gym takes care of the rest. As Surrey’s premier full-time Muay Thai gym, Shin Kick is set up to make beginners feel at home from the very first class.
Your first class is free, so there’s nothing to lose. Pop in, or call us on 01483 578358 to book your free trial — we’d love to welcome you to the mats.