Danielsan

I think that at the lower grades there isn't a problem of speed promoting someone who is at the level of the highest belt awarded. The point of a belt is so represent knowledge, ability, and dedication. I think someone who trains whole heartily and excels deserves to be promote just as much, if not more, than someone who just goes through the motions and meets the minimums. Also, what do you do with someone who's had previous experience?

I think that is more good advice. As I mentioned earlier, the local Shotokan karate instructor seems pretty good and I have heard good thing about the local Aikido instructor. Would it be too much at the beginning to start both - take one class a week with each? Or do you folks recommend just sticking with one and then learn a second one on the side later? I'm considering doing both for a few reasons: 1.) twice as many days working out. 2.) increase my knowledge/skill 3.) increase the chance of having that same style (by learning 2 instead of 1) at my next duty station - where ever that will be. Thanks to all so far for your input!

I'd be probably watch more tv and get fat.

That is good advice. I also just read about what you said, that I may apply to affiliation, which may test me and allow me to retain a rank equal to or maybe slightly lower than what I will achieve with the local karate club. That makes sense. I've been worried about the politics of karate and how it could affect me. Don't know how people who've invested their lives deal with it. Oh well, I order a GIKO 14oz gi this morning and after my string of 6x12 hour graveyard shifts on the Watchfloor, I'll attend my first session in almost 15 years. I'm still open for discussion as I have six more days before I go to my first session.

I can't believe a Wal*Mart closed! The must have relocated.

How's your Aikido training going?

Each of the different MAs have their advantages. From my limited knowledge, karate(s) focus on the ability to strike at a distance, but softer forms like Aikido provide a focus on joint locks, which you typically have to be closer in combat to achieve. But as many will tell you, you have to find the one that is right for You. I'm in a similar state trying to figure out which to get into after 10 years away from MA.

Recommend giving Aikido or some other grappling style of martial arts a try. It will be something different and will add to your knowledge. Plus, it seems very practical since you already know TKD.

The only reason why I care about rank is that I would like to be able to instruct in the future and that it seems that you should be a black belt before you teach others by yourself. I did Shotokan as a kid for a few years, but I also see the practicality in joint locks - especially for military. More info on what's available in my area: 1.) non-affiliated Shotokan karate club (used to be JKA, but broke away) 2.) Aikido club 3.) JKA affiliate club, but it's an hour drive one way. This would be difficult to make on a regular basis. What say you folks?

I am in the U.S. military and currently stationed in England. I would like to learn martial arts. From my limited experience I prefer Japanese/Okinawan styles (4x karates, Kenpo/Kempo, and Aikido) There are not many dojos/clubs in my area to choose from. As a military member who moves every 2-4 years, I would like to be able to continue my training where ever I move to (both U.S. and overseas) and hopefully not have to restart everytime I move. Also, I would like to be able in the future to provide training to fellow service members if I could and do not want to restrict my option to do so. Finally, I may in the future be stationed in Japan and would like the option of training with a dojo in Japan; would like to be accepted with what I will/have learned in Europe and the U.S. My questions are: 1.) Should I go with a newer martial art such as Aikido since there is less variation in that style and many instructors recognize previous training; and is this true? 2.) Should I look for an instructor who trained with an international organization like ITKA, JKA, WKO, etc.? Very Respectfully, Danielsan