Quote:
Originally Posted by oldbiker  Hello all,
I am a guy who’s not strong and not weak. And what I mean by that is that I can’t stand a fight, but at the same time I have a body with an average strength, if I may say so.
Now I’m 20, and turning 21 in Feb. 2010. Is it late to start training?
Also, I’ve been doing research on jujustu, karate, and other styles and I’m confused. I know that jujutsu is best for ground fighting and karate is best for striking. But to be clear my number one concern is to gain self confidence and the ability to defence my self against strong pple.
What opinions do you have guyz? What’s the style that would best fit my needs (gain confidence, self defence...)?
Is jujutsu particularly practical?
Can I start training in two styles at the same time?
Is training in mma is useful or should I train in pure styles?
Appreciate your help. |
Hello Oldbiker,
I teach a mix of Kenpo Karate, Muay Thai, and Western Boxing. I have been training for over 15 years, and love to dabble in all types of martial arts. It's never too late to start training. I would start off with Muay Thai, Western Boxing, and Jujitsu. I would also look into Chin Na. You can train as many, or as few styles as you want to at any time. You can go to a school that teaches multiple styles, or a school that teaches one style. It's all up to you. In the end, it is a must to know both stand up and ground fighting; however, in a real situation it's always best to avoid the ground, if at all possible.
Yes, Karate strikes can be very powerful, if you know how & when to use them. Being able to mix Karate techniques with Western Boxing can also be very effective.
It's not about the style, styles do not matter. It's all about the amount of practice you put in (practice often & never practice half-heartedly), how well your instructor teaches, and if you are learning good quality techniques / mechanics. You should always be completely worn out after a good martial arts class (dripping sweat, hardly able to drink from your water bottle, because your arms are shaking). When you wake up the next day you should be very sore.
Here are some pointers for self defense:
1. Master your mind state: This will be the hardest skill to acquire & maintain. Instead of fighting using animal instincts, focus on the present moment, until your perception of time slows. Athletes call this state of mind "flow." Once you are in this state of flow, you will be able to handle situations with greater ease. You will also want to meditate on positive things daily, and foster a state of clam within. A proper mind state will be essential to avoiding, and dealing with trouble.
2. Once you have control of your mind state, and only after, invest in, practice with, and carry some of the following:
* Brass Knuckles
* Knives (Butterfly Knives, Throwing Knives, Etc.)
* Guns
Best wishes,
Nasir