Basic Mandarin, Real Strength Training: What a Class at Beyoung Training Is Actually Like

A question we often hear from people who've moved to Kaohsiung goes something like this: "I'd like to start lifting, but my Mandarin is pretty basic. Will I be able to follow a class?"

It's a fair question, and it deserves a straight answer before you book anything. So here's how it really works, written the way I'd reply if you messaged us.

The honest answer first

Classes at Beyoung Training are taught mainly in Mandarin. The coach can communicate in simple English: short explanations, key instructions, and answers to your questions. This isn't a full English-language program, and we'd rather tell you that now than have you find out halfway through a session.

What helps is that strength training is a very visual, hands-on skill. A squat, a hip hinge, a row or a carry is mostly learned by watching, trying, and adjusting, not by listening to long explanations. Many people do fine with basic communication, because the most important information is something you can see and feel.

Also worth knowing up front: Beyoung Training is coach-led and appointment-only. There's no open gym and no using the equipment on your own. Every session is booked in advance and run by the coach. If you're looking for a day pass, we're not the right place, and it's better to know that now.

How you'll follow a class without fluent Mandarin

Most coaching here follows a simple loop: show, try, adjust.

Show. Before you do a movement, the coach demonstrates it. You'll see where the feet go, how the weight is held, and what the movement should look like from start to finish.

Try. You do a few reps with a light load, or just your bodyweight. Nobody expects you to get it right the first time, and most people don't.

Adjust. The coach watches and gives you one thing to change. Often that's a single word, a gesture, pointing to where your knees or hips should go, or a quick demonstration of the difference between what you did and what to aim for. Then you try again.

Because the feedback comes one small piece at a time, you don't need to understand a full sentence to improve. You need to see the change and feel it in the next rep. Numbers like reps and sets are easy to show on your fingers, and the weight on a dumbbell or kettlebell speaks for itself.

When something does need a real explanation, such as why we're changing an exercise or what to watch for with your lower back, the coach will switch to simple English. If you're unsure, ask. Questions are part of the class, not an interruption.

A few words you'll hear in class

You don't need to learn any Mandarin before your first session. But these words come up often, and knowing them can make the first few sessions feel easier:

• 再一次 (zài yí cì) – "one more time"

• 下一組 (xià yì zǔ) – "next set"

• 休息 (xiū xi) – "rest"

• 慢慢來 (màn man lái) – "take your time," "no rush"

• 吸氣 / 吐氣 (xī qì / tǔ qì) – "breathe in / breathe out"

• 很好 (hěn hǎo) – "good," "that's it"

• 會痛嗎？(huì tòng ma?) – "does it hurt?"

That last one matters. If something hurts, as opposed to just feeling hard, say so straight away, in English, in Mandarin, or by pointing. The coach would always rather adjust the exercise than have you push through pain to be polite.

You can ask questions in English on LINE

Like most small businesses in Taiwan, we handle bookings and questions on LINE. You're welcome to message us in English. It's often the easiest way to explain things that are hard to say mid-session, like:

• what training you've done before, if any

• old injuries or things that tend to bother you

• what you'd like to be able to do more easily, such as carrying luggage, getting up from the floor, or taking stairs without thinking about it

• which days and times you can realistically come

Writing this down before your first session gives the coach a clearer picture, and gives you time to say exactly what you mean without being put on the spot.

When this might not be the right fit

We'd rather be upfront than have you sign up and feel lost. This setup may not suit you if:

• You need detailed English explanations for everything. If you want the reasoning behind every cue in full English, a studio that teaches in English will serve you better.

• You want to train on your own schedule with the equipment. We don't offer open gym access. Everything is coach-led and booked ahead.

• You're looking for a short program with fast results. The people who do best here train steadily over months and treat strength as a skill they keep building.

If you're not sure which side you're on, message us and describe your situation. We'll give you an honest answer, even if that answer is "this probably isn't for you."

Where to start: a One-on-One or Two-Person Trial

If language is your main concern, we usually suggest starting with a One-on-One Trial. With just you and the coach, there's more time to slow down, demonstrate again, and check that you've understood. It's also a chance for you to see whether this way of learning works for you before committing to anything.

If you have a partner or friend who also wants to start, especially one whose Mandarin is a bit stronger, the Two-Person Trial is another good option. Learning alongside someone you know can make the first session feel less unfamiliar.

A few things to know before you book:

• Group classes are designed for adults aged 20 to 59. If you're 60 or older, we recommend starting with a One-on-One Trial.

• If you have a medical history, have had surgery, or have a recent injury, please start with a One-on-One Trial and attach a medical certificate issued within the last three months when you register. The coach will assess you before arranging a suitable course.

After the trial, the coach will suggest what to do next. That might be continuing one-on-one, joining a beginner group course, or moving into a group class once you have the basics.

For current options and prices, the simplest way is to ask on LINE. We'll send you what's relevant to your situation rather than a long list.

Your next step

If you'd like to try it, send us a short message. Tell us a little about your training background, any injuries, and when you're usually free, and we'll suggest where to start. There's no obligation to sign up.

• LINE: Message Beyoung Training on LINE

• Phone: 0962-026-868

• Address: No. 95, Baoyang E. St., Sanmin Dist., Kaohsiung (by appointment only)

Want a general overview of the studio first? Read Looking for Strength Training in Sanmin, Kaohsiung? Here's How Beyoung Training Works.

Everyone's situation is different. If you have any health concerns, please talk with a medical professional before starting a new exercise program.