Time: < 1 Hour

STEP 1: There are various types of martial arts courses – karate, taekwondo, jiu jitsu, and MMA (mixed martial arts). Consider your physical capability, comfort level, and interest in what you are looking to gain during the experience (increased self-defense, competitions, hand-to-hand combat, improving muscle and cardiovascular fitness, enhanced focus, etc.), then research which one best fits your needs.

STEP 2: Look for local courses in your area. Ask friends/family/social media groups for suggestions and feedback. Consider inviting friends and family to join in this empowering and exciting endeavor.

STEP 3: Call the studio and see if they have a free or discounted class for newcomers—many places will have cheap or free beginner classes, discounted drop-in or package rates, or discounted full-time membership prices.

STEP 4: Try it out. If it’s not exactly what you had hoped, talk to the owner and ask him or her for other classes or suggestions that will provide the same results. DON’T GIVE UP! If you feel this isn’t the path for you, there are plenty of other options to achieve similar results (physically and mentally).

STEP 5: Many times, martial arts can be similar to yoga…from the perspective of if you don’t like one class, TRY ANOTHER ONE. There are so many possibilities out there, you WILL be able to find one that you enjoy and meets your needs.