Please assist me in finding a good place to start

[Paulo]

About me,

24 in Nov. 6'1 205 lbs never had a formal training but always an interest and yearning to succeed in a fighting art. I used to train with (don't laugh) nunchakus and staffs all the time when I was a teenager, mainly because it helped diffuse a lot of pent up energy and anxieties.

Currently, I have really lost my way in this world and seriously need more than just weight training as an outlet for my mind and body. Also, I am in pretty poor cardiovascular shape right now.

I don't know if any of this helps select things. But, what I am looking for is something where I can have somebody push me and expand my limits of stress, both physical and mental. Something where I can exert a lot of energy as well as build endurance and get a good HIIT style workout, if possible. I have a very open mind and a willingness to listen and learn and I am not out to become the next Keanu Reeves at the local nightclub or anything like that. Just something to help me bring out the confidence and discipline that I have hiding within.

Would something like kickboxing be up my alley or should I go with more of a Fillipino or Brazillian style MA?

comments and questions are greatly encouraged.

 

[StickFigure]

About me,

24 in Nov. 6'1 205 lbs never had a formal training but always an interest and yearning to succeed in a fighting art. I used to train with (don't laugh) nunchakus and staffs all the time when I was a teenager, mainly because it helped diffuse a lot of pent up energy and anxieties.

Currently, I have really lost my way in this world and seriously need more than just weight training as an outlet for my mind and body. Also, I am in pretty poor cardiovascular shape right now.

I don't know if any of this helps select things. But, what I am looking for is something where I can have somebody push me and expand my limits of stress, both physical and mental. Something where I can exert a lot of energy as well as build endurance and get a good HIIT style workout, if possible. I have a very open mind and a willingness to listen and learn and I am not out to become the next Keanu Reeves at the local nightclub or anything like that. Just something to help me bring out the confidence and discipline that I have hiding within.

Would something like kickboxing be up my alley or should I go with more of a Fillipino or Brazillian style MA?

comments and questions are greatly encouraged.

So far I have really enjoyed the release Taekwon Do has given me. It's a great physical and mental workout. Between the sparring, breaking, and forms, I am drenched in sweat after the hour and a half long class. 2-3 times a week and I'm feelin' good.

There are alot of great MA's out there and you might just have to try a few out to find your nitch. I've tried Kempo, Shotokon, and TKD. Most schools will give you one or two free classes to see if you are interested.
Hope this helps!

 

[Demonix]

I like TKD but I really think Muay Thai is better (in my opinion) for exercise and usefullness.

 

[Dragon14]

It's a very individual decision. You won't know what is "up your alley" until you try. Most instructors will let you try the first class free.

Don't sign any long-term contracts until you have trained on a regular basis for at least 3 months. You may end up paying more up front, but trust me, it sucks to be stuck paying for something you don't want to do anymore.

 

[Judo Tom]

you will probably want a competitive art

you will probably like an art that has some real type of sparring

you will want to be able to "connect" w/ your instructor so he can push you

you want an art that is fun so you stick with it

most people here would recommend some type of mma or grappling art for self defense

basically your best bet is to go check out a few schools in the area. see how class is run. see how many people are there and how long they have been there. see what type of techniques are focused on. see how much time is devoted to sparring. see how "tough" the class is. see how tough the instructor pushes people.

get an idea and then go try a class or two and see how you like it.

ifyou want self defense/sparring and competition i would recommend (no order)

muay thai
bjj
judo
sambo

all real great fun arts that i really enjoy

good luck

 

[Paulo]

Excellent responses fellows, thank you.


judo tom really pinned it, esp about the connecting with the instructor thing. Would that mean I may do better if I also add in some private instruction? I suppose the only limiting factor is finance.

 

[Dragon14]

Private instruction can be a great experience. If you can afford it, I would definitely recommend it.

 

[Judo Tom]

i really enjoy private lessons but you shouldnt need them and you shouldnt really be pressured to take them

IMO private lessons should only start a few months after studying an art so you are familar enough to take advantage of the training..

but obviously if you started them from day one your learning curve would be greatly accelerated

what are you thinking of taking up now?

good luck!