FIND YOUR LOCAL VENUE
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As with everything new and unknown, the thought of turning up to your first British Military Fitness (BMF) class can be a daunting prospect. But let us reassure you that a) you're not alone in being a little nervous and b) for the most part, these nerves are unjust. All beginners will be absolutely fine in the care of our highly-trained instructors. Here's why:
"As a beginner, I'm nervous about turning up alone"
Don't be! You will barely be alone for a second. Plus, we have beginners sessions at every class so you can start with a similar fitness level if you're nervous about how you'll get on.
From the moment you arrive at the park, the Park Manager will introduce themselves and talk to you about any injuries or concerns you may have. They'll give you an idea of what to expect from your first class. They will also ensure that you begin in the correct ability group for your fitness level and are surrounded by likeminded and similar ability BMFers. You will be welcomed into the group where, if all our existing members are anything to go by, you'll make great and even life-long friendships.
"What if I can't find the meeting point?"
Before you arrive at the class, find your local park on our website. If you scroll down below the timetable you'll see details of the meeting point. You'll also be alerted to any changes in the timetable here too (NB: our classes go ahead regardless of weather, but there may be instances (few and far between) when a class has to be cancelled or moved due to another event taking place or bank holiday etc). Check for this here and if nothing is flagged up then you're ready to go ahead.
Once you arrive at the park you should look out for the navy blue branded BMF van. Aim to arrive about 15 minutes before the class starts to give yourself time to talk to the instructor and complete the health questionnaire. You may not spot too many members at this point, but rest-assured they will arrive (usually just with seconds to go!) in time for the class start, ready to go!
"I don't want to be shouted at"
You won't be. We don't shout at anyone. If we raise our voice it's only so we can be heard but the whole group (...and we prefer to use the term 'encourage loudly'!). The aim of all of our instructors is to get the very best out of you - so you're not going to be compared to the group. It's all about your own individual effort within the group. If the instructor thinks you need a little more support and encouragement they are there to provide that. If they think you need help with your exercise form they will advise on that. If you're working at your absolute maximum they will applaud you and recognise your effort.
"What if I'm not fit enough?"
You'll be fine; we have beginners sessions at every class where you can just go at your own pace. As mentioned earlier, so long as you're working yourself as hard as you can for the duration of the class, that's all that matters. So if the instructor asks the group to do 8 sit ups and you can only manage 1, then do 1. Perhaps next week you'll manage 2; and the following week 3...
"But I might get left behind?"
Not going to happen. No one is left behind. That's why we separate our classes into different fitness abilities; recognised by their bib colour. Beginners pop on a blue bib and there will be limited running in the class. If you're a little fitter you should wear a red bib. If you're very fit then wear a green bib.
During the class you will move to various sections of the park but the instructor will ensure that no one is left behind at any of these stages. If you have to walk for a little bit, that's fine. Similarly to the sit up example, if you have to run/walk for a few weeks at first, just aim to run a little more and walk a little less each session - then look at how much less you find yourself needing to walk as you improve week-on-week.
Sign up for a free class here
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