If you’re thinking about trying out martial arts or just getting started with us, this is for you. 

We know starting something new can be intimidating. You might be wondering what your first class will be like, how long it takes to feel comfortable, or whether you’re “ready” to start training. So we wanted to give you a clear idea of what your journey at McMahon Training Center looks like, from day one to black belt. 

Whether you’re here for Muay Thai Kickboxing, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), or just trying to get in better shape and challenge yourself, you’re in the right place. 

What to Expect in Your First Class

If you’re new to Muay Thai or BJJ, your first class will be one of our Fundamentals sessions, which are built for beginners. Before class starts, you’ll sit down with one of our coaches for a 30-minute intro. We’ll go over some basics, talk about what to expect, and help you feel more comfortable before jumping in. 

Then you’ll join the regular class. We line up by rank, bow in, and warm up together. After that, your coach will walk through a couple of techniques, and you’ll partner up to drill them. At the end, there’s burnouts, or light live training to help you start applying what you’ve learned—but we keep it beginner-friendly. 

This is where your martial arts journey begins. 

Once You Become a Member

After that first class, unless you’ve had previous experience, you’ll be placed in one of our Fundamentals programs. These are designed to build your confidence, develop real skills, and get you ready for more advanced training. 

Here’s a quick breakdown of each path: 

Muay Thai Kickboxing Fundamentals

This is where most students start if they’ve never trained Muay Thai before. You’ll be working on heavy bags and learning real striking techniques—not just cardio kickboxing. This isn’t fluff. We want you to feel confident and capable while also getting in great shape. 

Goal: Get you to your yellow shirt and ready for intermediate training 

Class commitment: 2–3 times a week 

Length: 4 months

Covers: Fundamentals in striking, footwork, and defense 

After this program, you can move up into our intermediate and advanced Muay Thai classes.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Fundamentals

This program is all about getting you comfortable on the mats and teaching you how to control and escape positions, apply basic submissions, and defend yourself on the ground. It’s a great place to start, whether your goal is self-defense, fitness, or competing in sport Jiu-Jitsu. 

Goal: Get you to your second stripe and ready for intermediate training 

Class commitment: 2–3 times a week 

Length: 4 months 

Covers: BJJ basics, some boxing and wrestling, and self-defense concepts 

Just like in our Muay Thai program, after you complete the Fundamentals program, you can move up into our intermediate and advanced BJJ classes. 

Intermediate & Advanced Programs

So, once you’ve earned either your second stripe on your white belt in BJJ or your yellow shirt in Muay Thai, you’re eligible to move up into our Intermediate classes, and, with time, into our Advanced classes. Below is a breakdown of what these classes look like. 

Muay Thai Intermediate/Advanced

These classes are partner-based, meaning you’ll be holding Thai pads and drilling with another person instead of working on the bags. After you are in our intermediate classes for several months and earn your green shirt, you are eligible to come to our advanced classes. 

• More advanced combos and defenses
• Technical sparring and live striking drills
• Competition-level training for those who want to go that route

Whether you want to compete or just take your skills to the next level, this is where it happens. B

BJJ Intermediate/Advanced 

Once you’ve got at least two stripes on your white belt, you can join Intermediate. This is where things start to click. Our advanced classes are for blue belts and up. It’s harder, more intense, and meant for students who are serious about reaching brown or black belt. We don’t believe black belts are for a select few. We believe anyone who sticks with it and trains consistently can get there. 

• You’ll learn to chain techniques together
• Do more live rounds (randori)
• Start training No-Gi if you’re interested

More Than Just a Gym

We know it can feel like a lot when you’re starting. That’s why we’ve built an environment that’s welcoming and supportive. We’re serious about martial arts, but we’re also a community. Whether you’re a college student, a working parent, or someone just looking for a new challenge, you’ll find your place here. 

Most people say they start to feel like part of the crew after about a month. That’s because everyone here, students, instructors, and even advanced belts, wants to see you succeed. We’re all in this together, and helping others improve is part of the culture. 

How to Make the Most of Your Training

To improve, the most significant thing you can do is show up consistently. Two to three times a week is the sweet spot. That’s where you’ll see progress without burning out. Training 5 or 6 days a week sounds great, but if you crash and stop showing up, it doesn’t help long-term. 

Life gets busy, summer trips, family stuff, work, but the people who stick with it through the ups and downs are the ones who really grow. That said, if you need time off, take it. Just come back when you’re ready. 

Ready to Start?

Everyone’s martial arts journey is different, but it always starts with that first class. We’d love to help you take that step. Our team’s here to make sure you feel welcome and supported from day one. 

See you on the mats soon! 

– Professor Finnie