ArtGood

First real BJJ class. Was rolling with someone at the end - just trying to escape from underneath while he was working on some submissions - when I twisted my torso and felt a sharp pain in my left ribs just under my pec. The pain subsided after a couple minutes unless I bend over, or try to lift something heavy. Any ideas as to what may have happened and how to treat it? As I sit here typing it doesn't hurt. When I sleep at night it isn't hurting. However, when I move wrong, it hurts. Skipped my class tonight to rest it. Hope to be able to get back at it next Tuesday.

Just participated in my first official BJJ class. I am taking classes at the academy run by Marcello Monteiro in Indianapolis. I thought long and hard about what martial art to participate in. I wrestled in high school, and the mental and physical challenge of BJJ really intrigued me. I'm really glad I chose BJJ! The first class was a lot of fun, and I was totally lost! Thankfully, Professor Monteiro seems to be a great instructor, and patient too. I was having a great time until I was sparring (rolling?) at the end with another student, just trying to escape from my back, giving him an opportunity to work, and I tweaked a rib. Thankfully it was nothing too bad, and I should be able to at least learn some new stuff at my next class!

Like I said, I've not seen anything goofy yet. Seems pretty solid. I'll keep my eyes open though.

Mooresville, Indiana. The school is associated with George Dillman. I haven't seen anything odd yet.

At my son's school in Indiana they charge $109 a month for 2 classes a week. They also charge $35 each time there is a belt advancement (for the testing and belt). I think it is TOO MUCH, but it is local, and all the instructors are great people. So, you get what you pay for is probably the rule.

Recently my son started to take karate classes at a local family martial art center. He really enjoys it, and I have no problems with the place at all, in fact I think they do a really good job with kids. Watching my son has inspired me at the ripe old age of 38 to take up martial arts. I went to a consultation at a BJJ place and don't really feel like that is for me. I am considering signing up for adult karate classes at the place my son attends. My question is, what should I look for in an adult beginner karate program? I want a serious program with belts that are truly earned and not just given away. Thanks for your input!