DaveAbramson

I agree with the above comments about having a good instructor. Sometimes instructors, even those with kids, have a hard time dealing with kids of that age. In regards to a style, I recommend taekwondo, as it goes well with gymnastics, balancing, shifting body weight, etc.

My advice would be to try it... learn the basics and if at some point you feel that there is more out there to learn that this dojo can't offer, move on!

Interesting responses.. In my opinion BJJ is a bit more brutal and I think the Gracies did a good job of demonstrating that in the early UFCs! But it's just my opinion...

Good question... I've never actually asked my instructors if they demote. I'd image the person would leave the dojo and take their black belt with them!

Weight definitely doesn't demonstrate one's knowledge in martial arts... but I might be a bit hesitant to join a program where the owner is obviously out of shape..

I train to stay in shape, plus I enjoy punching and kicking a target! I enjoy physical activities and karate is right at the top of my list!

I think you hit the nail on the head JusticeZero... I too have abs, somewhere! I just need to loose a good 10-15 lbs before I'll see them again!

Great advice yamesu.. I too have bad knees and try to avoid exercises that put pressure on them. Thanks for sharing.

I like the notion of using passive deception to take control of a situation... if needed. Obviously these scenarios don't arise often, but I'm rarely, if ever, the first to throw blows...

Goal 1: Lose 10 lbs Goal 2: Be more active by attending more classes Goal 3: Practice more at home

In my opinion... one would obviously be better (more skilled and certainly tougher) if they only sparred full (100%) contact. But this too would highly increase the chances of getting injured... and what good is an injured fighter?!

I don't really have a favorite combo either... Although when I hit the bag I do practice certain combos, such as jab, cross, hook, front leg high roundhouse (or maybe spinning high kick). I also like to practice rushing an opponent with cross-stepping punches - step with right, punch with left and vice versa.

The instructor in the video sure makes it look easy... I honestly have little to no experience with joint locks or throws (as in the video)... but I like to think I could pick up on a few basic moves if I was motivated to! And I think the same could be said for just about anyone!

I'm not gonna lie... I wouldn't want to be any where near the receiving end of those punches. Great form, power, and accuracy behind those blows...

I head to the karate studio at least once a week but train at home, by regularly starting a fight with my punching bag, at least 5 days a week for 1/2-hour to an hour.