When I was 14 I started training in martial arts. I was in a program taught in our towns park and recreation department. I obtained a 2nd degree black belt. In 2004 (I was 22) I decided to stop training. I had gotten married, wanted to finish school, etc. Today, the program no longer exists so going back is not an option. So, I would like to begin training in martial arts again and am looking for the right style for me. I am concerned about adaptability. In my previous system we punched with a vertical fist and used primarily soft blocks. I know many others do the opposite. Doing thousands punches, kicks and blocks for many days and many years has made it second nature. I am concerned if I go another route I won't be able to adapt. Even if I tried to toss out all the knowledge and training from those 8 years I still don't know if it would be enough to prevent me from using it. Any advice from those who are instructors who inherit students from other systems that do everything the exact opposite? Any advice from those who are training in multiple styles?
