First self-defense class? Feeling intimidated? 6 ways to alleviate your anxiety.

You walk into the studio, there are various people – some look friendly, some don’t.  Some might be practicing moves that you don't understand but look very formidable.  They look how you don't feel-comfortable.

These feelings are natural and shared by many Krav Maga beginners. 

Here are 6 ways to ease your anxieties.

1. Meet/talk with your instructor before your first class. Get a sense of their teaching philosophy, background, and personality. Ask questions.  Share your concerns.

2. Talk with other students. A conversation will help humanize the students. They have work stress, kids, vacation plans, etc – much like you.

3. Read some testimonials.  Besides talking to students in person, find out what other people say about their experience.

3. Partner with other beginners.  There is something reassuring about training with another person who is adjusting to a new experience.

4. Manage Your Expectations.  Don’t be hard on yourself.  Mistakes will be made and some techniques/exercises will be more difficult than others.  Be patient, train consistently, and you will see significant progress. 

5.  Have Fun.  Yes, self-defense is a serious topic but that doesn’t mean you have to be.  Train hard but have fun. 

New experiences can be daunting.  By taking steps to ease your anxieties you can make your introduction to self defense a more enjoyable one.

Stay Safe,

Christopher Gagne

Lead Instructor, International Krav Maga Federation, Toronto

torontokrav@rogers.com

416-657-1028
Ikmftoronto.com