It all depends on what you wish to achieve: sometimes we approach martial arts just for curiosity’s sake, and then realize, on the long distance, that what we were just looking for was simply martial-like fitness training. Before deciding what style of martial arts you want to learn, our most straightforward advice is to consider the following aspects:
- Martial Arts are supposed to be “art” focused rather than “sport/competition” focused, and this is certainly the first thing you should consider: are you searching for something that will help you unleash your desire of competition (in all its forms: fighting, group and solo performances, breakings, performing acrobatic patterns, using weapons, etc.), or you are more discipline and lifestyle focused?
- quickly ask yourself “what is the first thing I want to obtain from martial arts” before “what type of martial arts is right for me” and you will have a honest perspective of the main goal of your next journey.
- think of Martial Arts as a way of living rather that just a two-night class to attend during your busy week; art also means something that hopefully will make your life better, not just a sport to keep fit.
- are you ready to take on the challenge of hard training…? This is extremely important to understand, as many styles are exceptionally physically demanding, others instead focus more on technique and application.
- your age, your past experience and your physical conditions: maybe you already know what your goal is, but you are not sure if your body will be suitable for that type of style. It’s important to consider the long term commitment to a style before commencing your training, as factors such as knee and back conditions may affect your choice (i.e. if you have bad knees, probably you don’t want to start learning drunken boxing…)
