Which Martial Arts?

I want to get into a martial art for a number of reason - I enjoy oriental culture (especially Japan's culture). I also would like to get into shape, Im a little overweight and believe it would help me feel better about my self-image. I also would like to have an outlet for relaxing, and stress releif, also to have a hobby. And having it for sparing matches with my friends wouldn't be so bad either. I would like to have a martial arts that focuses on kicks, locks, and some weapons like a staff and swords. Which is best for me?

Which Martial Arts?
I would recommend Brazilian Jujitsu. It incorporates moves and techniques from a number of different schools and includes staff training at higher levels. If you find you like one better than the others, you can move into doing that exclusively.


Alternatively, you might try something like Tai Chi to start with. It is very relaxing and provides excellent stretching to improve flexiblity and resistance training to improve muscle tone and help shed a few pounds. It is also something you can do without mats or expensive equipment.


And don't listen to the idiots that say it can't be relaxing or that it has to be your whole life. Martial arts in America is a sport, just like any other.
Reply:First of all the martial arts are not a hobby or craft but a way of life. You could get all banged up and get nothing out of it if you cannot defend yourself in a street fight.





May be you should take up GO or SHOGI or study Japanese?
Reply:Well first of all iff you want to relax then why are you using somthing involving phisical violence.


Secand of all READ A BOOK


find out yourself


you do have internet


look it up
Reply:Martial Arts is great. I think it's a great way to release any pent up frustrations. However it can be a frustration in itself if you take it seriously.





Having sparring matches with your friends...Outside of a dojo or Tournament location you should never be sparring with someone, unless someone attacks you(which is a very rare).





I could be wrong, but kicks and locks are a bit different. When you're kicking usually you're doing this to keep your distance. While locks involve getting in close and can sometimes be more used in more wrestling type martial arts. While it wouldn't surprise me if there was a martial art that involves these two different styles I would think it might be hard to find. This is assuming you're looking for advanced kicks and not just the basics.





Weapons..a lot of schools don't teach weapons or it won't be until you reach a certain level..sometimes that level is black belt. Sword classes are also rare. Most schools don't teach sword or not until very advanced level.

flowers sympathy