I know how intimidating it can be walking into any gym for the first time—yes, even Round 1. I try sessions at other gyms regularly, and despite a lifetime of training (and owning a gym for 15 years!), I still get anxiety sitting in the car park before I walk inside: “What if I struggle”, “What if I can’t do it”, “What if I look stupid” etc. Most of those thoughts are baseless but you can’t stop them circling…then the longer you sit out the front it becomes “I don’t want to be too early” (as a reason not to go inside) and then “Geez, I hope I’m not late…”.
But I’d argue that Round 1 is even more intimidating than most.
Most gyms have rows of treadmills, dumbbells, and machines. When you walk into Round 1, it looks different. The first thing you see is a sea of punching bags. There’s loud music, fast-moving workouts, and people hammering away at bags, bikes, and barbells. It’s high-energy. It’s intense. And if you’ve never done boxing training before, it can be a lot to take in.
But here’s the thing: looks can be deceiving.
Because once you step inside, past that initial “whoa” moment, you’ll find a place that’s incredibly welcoming. You’ll meet people of all ages, backgrounds, and fitness levels, all training together and supporting each other. The workouts are designed to push you—but at your level. You don’t need to be a fighter, and you don’t need to be fit. You just need to start.
Still, I know getting through that door is the hardest part. So, here’s how to make it easier:
1. Bring a Friend or Get a Friendly Face in Advance
Nothing makes a new environment easier than having someone to guide you. If you can, bring a friend! If that’s not an option, book a Free Consult with one of our coaches before your first session. You’ll get a friendly face, a game plan, and a much better idea of what to expect—so you’re not walking in blind. Book yours here.
2. Ask Questions Before You Start
No one expects you to know everything when you start—so don’t put that pressure on yourself. The more you know in advance, the easier your first session will feel. Want to know what to bring? What the class will involve? Where to stand? Just ask. Seriously, we love when people ask because it is hard for US when you come along unprepared as well!
3. Wear What Makes You Feel Comfortable
You don’t need to go shopping for ‘gym gear’—just wear something you feel good moving in. A favorite t-shirt, shorts or leggings, and comfortable sneakers are perfect. You don’t need to ‘dress up’ to go to the gym – Round 1 simply isn’t that sort of ‘place’ – but it is important that you feel yourself…remember, you are putting yourself in an environment where you will probably already feel ‘anxious’ so being stressed about whether or not your outfit will pass some sort of non-existent test is something you need to put out of your mind…there is no such test! Where stuff that makes you feel comfortable – and if not confident, at least ‘OK’.
4. Arrive Early & Settle In
Nothing makes anxiety worse than rushing. Arriving 10-15 minutes early gives you time to check in, get comfortable, and maybe even chat with a coach before class starts…I know, I know – there’s very few things worse than standing in a room full of people where everyone else is chatting away and you’re standing solo feeling like a goose…but being there early and having a few minutes to get your bearings and ‘get ready’ is so much better than walking in ‘On the whistle’ and finding everyone else ready to go – and now they’re all waiting for you!
Plus – if you are standing in a room full of people, you never know…you might just strike up a conversation with someone and well, now you’ve ticked off box #1 as well – “Bring a Friend”…but this friend actually knows what they’re doing and can help you through the class!
5. Remember: No One Is Watching You
This is a big one. I promise—no one is judging how fit you are, how well you know the exercises, or how much weight you’re lifting. Everyone is too focused on their own workout! Just focus on yourself, go at your own pace, and enjoy the process.
6. Give Yourself Permission to Be a Beginner
You don’t need to be fit before you join a gym. You don’t need to be perfect. You just need to start. Your only job is to show up, try your best, and give yourself time to improve.
You belong here. And after one or two sessions, that feeling of anxiety will be replaced with confidence.
Ready to take the first step? Book a Free Consult here or come down for a class—we’ll make sure you feel at home.
