What to Wear to Your First MMA Class (UK Guide)

What to Wear to Your First MMA Class (UK Guide)

What to Wear to Your First MMA Class (UK Guide)

Walking into your first MMA class is a buzz — new gym, new drills, and a room full of people who look like they already know what they’re doing.

The easiest way to feel confident on day one is simple: turn up in kit that moves well, stays in place, and doesn’t get in anyone’s way.

This guide breaks down exactly what to wear to your first MMA class in the UK, whether it’s striking, grappling, or a mixed session.

The golden rule: move free and don’t get grabbed

MMA is striking and grappling. Your clothing needs to do three things:

  • Move freely (kicks, sprawls, clinch work, hip escapes)

  • Stay put (no riding up or twisting mid-round)

  • Stay safe (nothing that can catch fingers or scratch training partners)

If you remember one thing: avoid pockets, zips, and baggy tops.

The best outfit for your first MMA class

Top: rashguard or athletic training tee

Best: a fitted rashguard (especially if there’s grappling)
Good: a close-fitting athletic t-shirt for day one

A rashguard helps because it stays tight to your body (less fabric to grab), reduces mat burn and friction, and feels cleaner in close-contact rounds.

If you’re starting with a normal training tee, keep it fitted — not oversized.

Shop Men’s MMA & Gym Clothing UK:
https://deusfightwear.com/collections/mens-mma-clothing-uk

View Full Catalogue:
https://deusfightwear.com/collections/mma-clothing-uk

Bottoms: MMA shorts (no pockets)

For MMA, training shorts built for movement are the easiest win.

Avoid football shorts with deep pockets, anything with zips, and heavy joggers (too hot and too much friction).

If you’re unsure where to start, a clean pair of fight/training shorts will cover most sessions.

View Full Catalogue:
https://deusfightwear.com/collections/mma-clothing-uk

Optional underlayer: spats or compression shorts

Not required for your first session — but useful if you get thigh rub/chafing, grapple a lot, or want a more “locked-in” feel during scrambles.

A lot of fighters wear spats under shorts. Totally normal.

Shoes: do you train barefoot?

Depends on the class and gym rules:

  • Grappling/wrestling: usually barefoot

  • Striking/padwork: some gyms allow trainers (often clean, indoor-only)

If you’re unsure, bring trainers and follow what the coach says.

What not to wear (common beginner mistakes)

Avoid these and you’ll instantly look like you’ve trained before:

  • Hoodies during drilling (overheats and gets grabbed)

  • Baggy t-shirts (ride up and distract you)

  • Anything with pockets, zips, or metal bits

  • Jewellery (rings/necklaces = no)

  • Strong aftershave (close-contact gyms… don’t)

Also: trim nails. Your training partners will appreciate it.

Hygiene: the unspoken rule in fight gyms

Fight gyms are respectful places. Good hygiene is part of that.

  • Clean kit every session

  • Don’t leave sweaty kit in the bag overnight

  • Bring a small towel

  • Shower ASAP

Beginner MMA clothing checklist

  • Fitted rashguard or athletic tee

  • MMA training shorts (no pockets)

  • Optional: spats/compression

  • Water bottle

  • Small towel

Everything else (gloves, wraps, mouthguard) varies by gym and session.

Final word

Your first class isn’t about looking flashy — it’s about turning up ready to work.

Start clean, start simple, then upgrade as you commit.

Shop Men’s MMA & Gym Clothing UK:
https://deusfightwear.com/collections/mens-mma-clothing-uk

View Full Catalogue:
https://deusfightwear.com/collections/mma-clothing-uk

FAQs

Can I wear a normal t-shirt to MMA class?
Yes for day one — just keep it fitted. If there’s grappling, a rashguard is usually more comfortable and stays in place.

Do I need spats as a beginner?
No. They’re optional, but helpful for chafing and grappling-heavy sessions.

Can I wear trainers?
For striking, often yes. For grappling, usually barefoot. Always follow the gym’s rules.