What to Expect in Your First Shockwave Jujitsu Class

I have no idea what I'm walking into...

If that thought has crossed your mind about attending a intro class, you're not alone. Most people arrive with questions, nerves, and expectations based on movies or assumptions about martial arts.

Here's exactly what happens in a typical Shockwave Jujitsu class — minute by minute — so you can decide if this is what you're looking for.

The Reality: This Is Serious Self-Defence Training

Before we dive into the schedule, let's be clear about what you're signing up for:

This is not a fitness class (though you'll get fitter)
This is not a discussion or seminar (though you'll learn principles)
This is not a social club (though community forms)

This is practical skill development for real-world scenarios. We train you to handle physical confrontations you hope never to face.

If that's not what you're looking for, that's perfectly fine — but please know that before you attend.

Your First Class: Minute by Minute

Here's exactly what happens during a typical Sunday morning class (10:00–12:00):

10:00–10:01: Bow In

We stand in lines organized by belt rank and bow to the head instructor. It's a simple gesture of respect — nothing elaborate or mystical.

What this means for you: You'll stand at the back with other beginners. No pressure, just acknowledgment that class has begun.

10:01–10:10: Warm-Up

We run laps around the training area, then do pushups, sit-ups, and squats, followed by stretching.

What this means for you: Light cardio to get your body ready. Work at your own pace — nobody's timing you or expecting peak performance.

10:10–10:20: Safety Drills

We practice breakfalls, forward and backward rolls, hip escapes, and technical standups.

What this means for you: These are essential skills for staying safe during training and real confrontations. An instructor will guide you through each movement slowly.

10:20–10:45: Striking & Sparring

We put on gloves and leg pads for light (50%) sparring, changing partners to experience different body types and styles.

What this means for you: This is controlled contact, not a fight. You'll work with an instructor who will ask about your experience and adjust accordingly. We provide gloves and pads if you don't have them.

Important: "50% sparring" means controlled intensity — enough to test your skills under pressure, but not enough to hurt or overwhelm you.

10:45–11:15: Escapes, Locks, Chokes & Throws

The instructor demonstrates techniques, then we pair up to practice while they walk around providing corrections.

What this means for you: You'll learn how to escape from grabs, chokes, and holds. An instructor will break each technique into small steps and drill it with you.

11:15–11:40: Ground-Fighting Technique

We start with a demonstration of ground-fighting techniques, then pair up to drill them.

What this means for you: You'll learn positions and movements for situations that end up on the ground. Again, an instructor will guide you through each step.

11:40–11:59: Option 1 - Ground-Fighting Roll

Light (50%) ground-fighting sparring to test techniques against resistance.

What this means for you: If you choose to participate, you'll work with an instructor in controlled grappling. This is optional for beginners.

11:40–11:59: Option 2 - Knife Defences

We drill foundational knife defence techniques and explore various scenarios.

What this means for you: Serious training for serious situations. We break down each defence into manageable steps and practice them slowly.

11:59–12:00: Bow Out

We line up and bow to close the class.

What You'll Actually Experience

Physically

You'll sweat, but you won't be destroyed
You'll have some contact, but nothing violent or overwhelming
You'll be challenged, but not beyond your current ability
You'll be guided through everything step-by-step

Mentally

You'll need to focus and pay attention
You'll be learning new movements and concepts
You'll be pushed slightly outside your comfort zone
You'll need to engage seriously with the material

Socially

You'll train with a mix of ages (typically 25-55)
Everyone is respectful and focused on learning
No egos, no showing off, no "tough guy" attitudes
Instructors ensure beginners feel supported, not lost

Who You'll Be Training With

Your fellow students are:

Mostly beginners or intermediate level (not black belt experts)
Mix of men and women, various ages and fitness levels
People seeking practical skills, not trophies or glory
Respectful adults who understand this is serious training

The instructors are:

Experienced but approachable
Focused on safety and proper technique
Patient with beginners but serious about standards
There to guide you, not intimidate you

What We Expect From You

Show up ready to learn — this isn't casual or social
Follow safety guidelines — for your protection and others'
Engage with the material — we're teaching real skills for real situations
Be coachable and patient — learning requires listening, not just doing
Participate in scenario training — you'll need to roleplay situations and watch demonstrations
Be a good training partner — others depend on you for safe, focused practice
Respect the training environment — everyone is here to improve

The Hard Truth: This Isn't for Everyone

After reading this breakdown, you should have a clear picture of what Shockwave Jujitsu training involves.

This training IS for you if:

You want to develop practical self-defence skills
You're comfortable with controlled physical contact
You can commit to regular training for real progress
You value skill development over quick fixes

This training is NOT for you if:

You're primarily seeking fitness, discussion, or social connection
You're uncomfortable with any physical contact or sparring
You want immediate results without consistent effort
You're looking for spiritual or philosophical martial arts
You prefer talking about self-defence to actually practicing it
You can't handle roleplaying scenarios or need constant action without instruction

Your Decision

Now you know exactly what happens in a Shockwave Jujitsu class. There are no surprises, no hidden elements, no "gotchas."

If this sounds like what you want — practical skill development in a respectful but serious environment — then you'll likely find value in our training.

If this doesn't align with what you're seeking, that's perfectly fine. It's better to know now than to discover it after attending.

Next: See If Shockwave Jujitsu Is Right For You

Now that you know what happens in class, continue with:

Article 2: Who this training is NOT for

Make sure this training aligns with what you're actually seeking before you attend.

Prefer to book now?

Still have questions?

This is Article 1 of the 4 Part Essential Reading series.