The fear of trying something new is what often prevents people from trying something new.
What a shame to miss out on so many potential opportunities in life because of the fear of taking that first step.
The truth is that the first step really is the hardest.
After that it's nothing but benefits.
Any new experience can be intimidating.
A lot of it has to do with the environment in which you take your mixed martial arts training.
Working with the right studio is what helps ease the intimidation factor.
The trainers, the other students and the overall feel of the training facility are what helps make MMA training not feel intimidating.
New or prospective students often make assumptions about the classes being hardcore and those involved being too intense.
While the training is meant to be intensive, it doesn't mean it can't also be fun.
Not everyone taking MMA training plans to go on to ultimately become a UFC fighter.
There is so much more to mixed martial arts training than becoming a pro.
Some of the reasons MMA has become so popular are: The best in health and fitness benefits -- Some people want to lose weight, and others want to get in better shape.
You may want to increase your strength and stamina or simply have better health for better quality of life.
All of these are possible for you when you take this intensive training.
Ability to master self-defense techniques -- Pepper spray, a gun, a knife - any of these could possibly help in the event of an attack, if you can reach them.
Having the ability to defend yourself with your own hands, feet, knees, elbows and overall body mean you are always prepared.
Standing or from a ground position, no other type of training can better prepare you for a possible attack.
Improved self-image -- Trying something new, getting strong and in shape and knowing you can defend yourself all help increase confidence and self-esteem.
Once you get further into your training you'll start setting more goals for this and other areas of your personal and professional life.
All of this adds to improving your self-image.
Who is MMA training for? Anyone who has an interest can take some form of mixed martial arts.
Men, women and children of all ages can take martial arts training.
It doesn't matter if you are already in great shape and taking MMA or if you are out of shape, overweight and have never taken a class in your life.
We all start somewhere.
That's why there is no reason to be intimidated.
Every student, every trainer and even every UFC fighter had to start somewhere.
Everyone has to take their first class and get past feeling intimidated.