Sunday Shift Notes #1: The Question I Get Asked Most

Hi everyone, Tyler here again.

A couple of weeks ago I told you how I ended up working Sundays at FightstorePRO. Since then a few people have said they liked hearing what goes on behind the counter. So I'm going to make this a regular thing. Every Sunday, one thing from the shop floor.

This week it's the question I get asked more than any other.

"I've just started. What do I actually need?"

[Today it was a lad who'd just done his second ever Muay Thai class.] He'd been looking online all week and come in with a list as long as your arm. Gloves, shin pads, shorts, ankle supports, a bag to carry it all in.

I get it. When you start something new you want to look the part.

I've been there myself. I've lifted for years, had a break, and I'm getting back into the gym now. First thing I wanted to do was buy new kit. What I actually needed was to turn up.

So here's what I tell people.

For your first few weeks: hand wraps, a pair of gloves and a gumshield. That's it. Most clubs will lend you gloves at first, but after a few weeks of sweaty shared ones, everyone wants their own.

When your coach says so: shin pads, once you're doing partner work. These are the one thing I'd always try on first. Everyone's legs are different and a pad that spins round mid-kick is no use to anyone.

Everything else can wait. Elbow pads, headguards, fancy bags. Your coach will tell you when you need them.

Why I'd always say come in

This is the bit I didn't expect when I started here. Loads of people come in sure of what they want, try it on, and walk out with something different. Because it fit better, felt better, or just suited them more.

You can't get that from a photo. You can here.

And nobody's going to push you into a full fight-camp setup in week one. The aim is to get you kitted out right so you keep going.

One more tip: ask your coach before you buy. A lot of coaches round here are part of our Fight Tribe, so they might have a code for you.

See you Sunday

If you're just starting out, or thinking about it, come and say hello. I'm in every Sunday at FightstorePRO, Team Valley. Bring your questions.

See you next week for Sunday Shift Notes #2.

Tyler

Know someone who's just started boxing, Muay Thai, MMA or BJJ? Send them this.