You have booked your trial class and you are ready to go. But then one question pops up: what do you actually wear to your first kickboxing class? You do not want to feel overdressed on the mat, but you also do not want to notice halfway through that your clothes are getting in the way. Good news: you probably already have almost everything at home. In this blog you will read exactly what to wear and what to bring when you start kickboxing in Amsterdam.
Why Your Clothing Matters More Than You Think
Kickboxing is a sport with a lot of movement. You punch, kick, turn your hips and build your fitness in a short time. Clothes that feel good help you focus on your technique instead of on shorts that slide down or a shirt that sticks. You really do not need to buy anything special for your first class. Comfortable sportswear that lets you move freely is enough.
The Basics: Comfortable, Breathable Sportswear
At a kickboxing gym in Amsterdam East like Spallys, it is all about training, not about your outfit. So pick clothing that breathes and handles sweat well.
Upper Body
A sports shirt or T-shirt in a breathable fabric works fine. Cotton is possible, but it gets heavy and wet quickly. A technical sports shirt dries faster and feels better. A tank top works too, as long as you feel comfortable in it.
Lower Body
Shorts or long training pants both work. The main thing is that your knees and hips have all the room they need to kick. Many people like leggings because they move with you. Avoid jeans or tight trousers that limit your movement.
Shoes: On or Off?
At Spallys you always train barefoot. So no sports shoes on the mat, and no socks or anti-slip socks either. There is a good reason for that: bare feet give you the best grip and let you turn on the ball of your foot, and that turn is what makes your kicking technique work. In socks you slide away and never really learn it.
At some gyms you will see people training in socks. Not with us. Leave your shoes by the mat and you are good to go.
What to Leave at Home
- Jewellery such as necklaces, rings and watches. They can hurt you or someone else.
- Loose or baggy clothing that catches on your arms or legs.
- Trousers with zips or buttons in places that chafe.
- Too many layers. You get warmer than you expect.
And Your Hair, Phone and Water Bottle?
Tie long hair back in an elastic or a ponytail so it stays out of your eyes. Bring a towel and a filled water bottle, because you are going to sweat. A set of clean clothes for afterwards is handy if you have plans later. You usually do not need to bring your own gloves and shin guards for a trial class. Many gyms let you borrow or rent them, so check that in advance.
In Short
For your first class, this list gets you a long way:
- A breathable sports shirt or tank top
- Shorts, training pants or leggings
- Bare feet, no socks
- A towel and water bottle
- Hair tied back, jewellery off
That is really all you need to start kickboxing in Amsterdam East.
What Can Spallys Do for You?
At Spallys in Amsterdam East we make your first class as easy as possible. You do not need any experience and you do not have to buy expensive gear. Come in comfortable sportswear and our trainers will calmly walk you through the basics: your stance, your first punches and kicks and the famous Dutch style kickboxing we grew up with. We train in an approachable atmosphere, without ego and without fuss. Whether you are putting on a glove for the first time or want to boost your fitness, you will feel at home on the mat quickly.
Want more personal attention? Then personal training is a great way to work on your technique and goals in a focused way.
Conclusion
What you wear to your first kickboxing class does not have to be a headache. Comfortable sportswear, bare feet or anti-slip socks and a well-filled water bottle get you a long way. You will pick up the rest naturally while training. Ready to just experience it? Book a trial class at Spallys in Amsterdam East and discover how much fun your first class can be.
