The 1st Student Grade (abbreviated to 1SG) is the first of three grades which together make up the Foundation Stage of the FWTS Training Programme.

The purpose of the 1SG programme is to get people started. It assumes zero knowledge of martial arts training, of body mechanics, or of working with a training partner, and aims to introduce the system, build confidence, and get you moving.

If you can walk up a flight of stairs, run briefly at a light jogging pace, and move your limbs without any major problems, you’ve already got sufficient fitness to begin this programme. The simple drills and exercises within 1SG will improve your awareness, your coordination, your movement and your balance, and will build the fundamental skills needed to start solving the most basic combat problems.

Like all first steps, you may not find it super-easy initially, but you’ll realise that all the movements are comfortably within your abilities.