The 1st time entering a MMA gym can be a very intimidating experiance.  When I first decided to start training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Muay Thai I had very little idea of what I was getting my self into.  I made some mistakes and did some stuff right.  Here is a list of things to do and things not to do and what to bring.

Must have:

1. Athletic attire:  Shorts, T-Shirt, etc
2. Positive attitude.  This is not going to be easy.  This is not running on a tread mill.  It’s going to be hard, especially on the 1st day.  No one is particularly splendid on their 1st day of classes.
3. Your ID.  Bring you driver’s license or state ID.  We keep your license while you are in the building if you are not a member.  We do this mainly to keep out the riff-raff and for the safety of our members.  If you don’t have your ID you don’t train.
4. Flip flops or sandals.  We do most activities here bare foot.  If you want to leave the mats you must wear shoes or sandals if you want to get back on the mats. You can wear your regular shoes while not on the mats but flip flops are more convenient.

Nice to have:

1. We have loaner equipment for every class for trial members.  However, if you have your own equipment (boxing gloves, gi, etc.), please bring it.
2. Change of cloths. Antibacterial body-wash. Towel. We have showers and we recommend that you use them. If you do Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu you need to shower after class. If you don’t shower it at the gym then do it as soon as possible. We clean the mats regularly but showering after rolling is always a good thing!

What to do:

1. Check your ego at the door.  No matter how tough you think you are there is always someone that can kick your butt.  People here are very nice and we promote a team atmosphere.  If your goal is to be the tough guy here then please find another gym.
2. Expect to be asked to join the gym.  We are not pushy salesmen but we will ask if you want to become part of the team.
3. Bathe/wear deodorant/wear clean cloths.  Martial Arts are contact sports.  No one wants to get paired up with someone that smells funky.