What should you bring to your first class?
For most beginner sessions, clean sports clothing and water are the essentials. Choose clothes that allow you to lift your knees, rotate your hips and move freely without loose zips, jewellery or hard fittings.
If you already own suitable boxing or kickboxing gloves, bring them. If you do not, ask the gym before buying anything. Different clubs have different expectations around shared equipment and glove sizes.
Boxing gloves
Gloves are usually one of the first pieces of equipment a regular kickboxer buys. They protect your hands and provide padding for pad work and controlled partner drills.
The right glove depends on your body size, the type of training and the gym's rules. Do not assume that one glove weight is correct for every situation. Ask your coach before purchasing if you are unsure.
Hand wraps
Hand wraps sit underneath the gloves and help support the hand and wrist. They are inexpensive, washable and worth learning to use correctly once you begin training regularly.
A coach can show you a simple wrapping method. The aim is support without cutting off circulation or creating bulky folds inside the glove.
Shin guards
Shin guards are commonly used when partner drills or controlled sparring include kicks. A complete beginner may not need to buy them before the first class, especially if the early sessions focus on stance, movement, pads and basic technique.
When you do buy a pair, fit matters. Guards that constantly rotate or slide can become distracting during training.
Mouthguard
A properly fitted mouthguard is important before any activity where contact to the head or face may occur. You may not need one for a purely introductory technical session, but you should have your own before taking part in contact work that requires it.
Do you need kickboxing shorts?
No. Specialist shorts can be comfortable, but they are not necessary for learning the basics. Normal training shorts, leggings or suitable sports trousers are usually enough at first, provided they do not restrict movement.
What about headgear?
Whether headgear is used depends on the training format, competition rules and coaching environment. It is not something most beginners need to purchase before attending their first class.
Do not overspend before you know what you need
It is easy to buy expensive gloves, branded clothing and protective equipment before you have established a routine. Attend the first session, speak to the coach and find out what is actually used in that gym.
Spend first on the items that improve hygiene, fit and safe participation. Specialist extras can come later.
What does Onyx recommend for a first visit?
Come in clean sports clothing, remove jewellery and bring water. If you own gloves, bring them. If not, mention it when booking your free first class so you know what is available for the session.
For a fuller overview of the session itself, read what to expect from your first Kickboxing class.
Start without buying everything first.
Your first Onyx class is free, so you can experience the training before committing to equipment or membership.
Book your free first class