One of the most common messages I get before someone’s first class is, “What should I wear?” It’s a fair question. Nobody wants to turn up in the wrong kit and feel out of place. The good news is that for Wing Chun the answer is refreshingly simple. This is a practical checklist of what to wear, what to bring and what to leave at home for your first session with us in Halesowen.
The short answer
Wear comfortable clothes you can move in. That’s it. You don’t need a uniform, you don’t need to buy anything and you don’t need any equipment for your trial. Tracksuit bottoms and a T-shirt or hoodie are perfect.
Your first-class kit list
On your legs
Tracksuit bottoms, joggers or loose training trousers work best. You’ll be standing in a bent-knee stance and stepping, so anything that restricts your knees or hips will get in the way. Avoid jeans, tight trousers and anything with a heavy buckle or zips that could dig in.
On top
A T-shirt is ideal. A light hoodie or sweatshirt is fine if it’s a cold evening, and you can take it off once you’ve warmed up. Choose something that lets your arms move freely at the shoulder and elbow, because Wing Chun uses a lot of arm movement close to the body.
On your feet
Wear comfortable shoes to arrive in. We’ll tell you on the night what footwear suits the training area. What matters is being able to feel the floor and move without slipping.
In your bag
- A bottle of water. You’ll want it.
- A small towel if you tend to get warm.
- Any medication you might need, such as an inhaler.
- A hair tie if you have long hair.
What not to bring (or wear)
- Jewellery and watches. Rings, bracelets, necklaces and watches can catch or scratch during partner work. Take them off before class, or better still, leave them at home.
- Big, loose hoodies with drawstrings. Dangling cords get in the way of close-range hand work.
- Chewing gum. It’s a choking risk when you’re moving and breathing hard.
- Long nails. Keep them short for your own comfort and your partner’s.
- Your own gloves or pads. You won’t need them for your first session.
When does the club T-shirt come in?
Once you’ve decided Wing Chun is for you and you join as a member, you’ll wear the club T-shirt in class. It’s our uniform, and it’s a simple one: the Official Wing Chun Halesowen Starter T-shirt. Wearing the same shirt helps everyone feel part of the school, and it’s practical: light, comfortable and easy to wash.
There’s no need to buy it before your trial. Come in whatever you’re comfortable in, and if you decide to carry on, we’ll talk about club kit then.
A few practical tips for the night
Arrive ten minutes early
We’re at Unit 1C, Eagle Trading Estate, Stourbridge Road, Halesowen B63 3UA, with parking at the centre. Arriving early gives you time to find us, get changed if you need to and meet the instructors before we start. Adult classes run Monday to Thursday from 7:15 pm to 8:15 pm, and Friday from 7:05 pm to 8:05 pm, and the children’s class runs from 6:00 pm to 6:55 pm.
Eat lightly beforehand
A light snack an hour or two before class is better than a big meal just before. You’ll be moving, breathing hard and working close to a partner.
Tell us about injuries
If you have an old knee, back or shoulder problem, let us know when you arrive. We’ll adapt what you do.
Bring a friend if you like
Our centre has a viewing area, so a friend or family member can come and watch. Even better, they can train alongside you.
For parents: what should my child wear?
The same rules apply. Comfortable clothes like joggers and a T-shirt, no jewellery, hair tied back and a water bottle. Children who join as members wear the kids’ club T-shirt in class.
What happens once you’re dressed and ready?
If you’d like to know what the class itself involves, our article on what to expect in your first Wing Chun class walks through it. In short: a warm-up, stance and footwork, an introduction to the first form and some simple partner work, all at a pace that suits you.
And if nerves are what’s holding you back, my book Taking the Martial: Kickstart your confidence looks at how martial arts can help you overcome a limiting mindset and build your confidence.
Ready?
Now you know what to wear, the only thing left is to pick an evening. Book your free trial class, or read more about our timetable on the Wing Chun classes in Halesowen page. If you’re still unsure about anything, call or text me on 07821 126 685.
Sifu Alan Bagley, Wing Chun Halesowen