Part of the guide: MMA in Great Yarmouth: the complete guide
Many people start martial arts to get fitter. Some also hope to lose weight. This guide is honest about both. We make no promises, because results depend on you. We can tell you what a session involves and why people stick with it.
Is martial arts a good way to get fit?
Yes. A class works your whole body. You build stamina, strength, balance and coordination.
You do not need to be fit to start. You get fit by training. A good session at Union Thai has a warm-up, technique work and conditioning. Each part asks something different from your body.
Will martial arts help me lose weight?
It can help, but it is not magic. Training burns energy. What you eat, how you sleep and how often you train all matter as well.
We do not promise weight loss. If you have a health worry or a weight goal, speak to your doctor. What we can say is that training regularly is a good habit, and people tend to look after themselves better once they have a sport they enjoy.
What does a Muay Thai session do for fitness?
It builds stamina, power and coordination. A session has skipping, pad work, partner work and conditioning.
Skipping and pad rounds raise your heart rate. Conditioning at the end tests your stamina. Strikes use your legs, hips, core and arms together, so it is a whole body effort.
What about MMA and BJJ?
Both are hard workouts in different ways. MMA mixes striking, wrestling and ground work. That keeps your body guessing.
BJJ is slower but still tiring. Moving a partner around on the ground uses your whole body. Many people are surprised by how hard it is on the first day. You can read more in our complete MMA guide and our complete BJJ guide.
How often should I train to see a difference?
Twice a week is a good start. Come more as you get comfortable.
Regular practice matters more than one big session. Many people notice they breathe better and feel stronger within a few weeks. Everyone is different, so do not compare yourself with others.
Why do people stick with martial arts?
Because it is not boring. You are learning a skill, not just counting reps.
There is also the community. You train with the same people each week. You push each other on and you want to turn up. That is why many people who never liked gyms find they love training here.
Do I need to be fit before I start?
No. That is the most common worry and it is not a problem. Beginners go at their own pace.
The coach will tell you to rest when you need it. Nobody is counting. Tell the coach if you have an injury or health worry.
What should I eat and drink around training?
Keep it simple. Eat a light meal a couple of hours before class and drink water through the day. Do not train on a very full stomach.
After class, eat something with protein and give your body time to rest. We are not nutritionists, so if you have a diet or health goal, speak to your doctor first.
How do I keep going when it gets hard?
Set a small goal. Make it turning up twice a week. Not a number on a scale. Habits beat hard weeks.
Train with someone if you can. A friend makes it harder to skip. Tell the coach what you want. They can pace you and cheer you on.
How do I get started?
Pick a class on the timetable. Pay as you go has no commitment. Check the memberships page for how to pay.
Wear comfortable clothes and bring water. Tell the coach it is your first time. They will look after you.
