marie curie

I agree with Kajukenbopr.... It sounds like you just had a bad experience. Also, different arts are for different purposes- some are sports, some are to pass on traditions (I veiw much like studying calligraphy), and some are for self-defense. I've done a system that was heavily traditional (and loved it for what it was). I, now, do a system that is heavily "real world experience" based. They encourage "what-if's" and encorperating the most practical "what works for you" techniques from many systems (Karate, Judo/Jiu-Jitsu, Kenpo, Boxing). Maybe if you research, you could find a school that teaches what you are looking for.

I think that it is a good system for developing an appreciation for the traditional arts.

what is dan? sorry- degree

I really enjoy the fights... I know that they get a little repeditive with the techniques, but it's just like watching football when I perfer rugby. It's not the only fighting I like to see, but it's good for what it is. I mean... it's not like watching K-1 where they can't even grapple

Good luck with all!

The sticks closely resemble something that you may be able to pick up or improvise from the environment if attacked, so I would train in them (and do as often as possible).

Thanks for all the good info!!!

I like defence because it's fun to think about all the different combinations and stuff

In most systems someone is deemed "Master" at 4th dan. How long does that take in TKD? Depends on the TKD. Unfortunately I knew a 2nd dan in some type of TKD who was 13 and had been practicing for like 4 years...

kicking a target/heavy bag/clapper is a good idea, so someone can keep an eye on your knee angle, hight etc.

are you alternating heat and ice on it?

The most simple yet effective art I've done (and I've done Kung Fu, TKD, Karate, Kajukenbo, Judo, and BJJ) is Kajukenbo. The curriculum isn't very demanding, but all the tricks and drills are based around "real world" and self-defense applications. Note: not a good idea if you are looking for a sport or compitition MA because lots of what you learn to do would be illeagal...like groin kicks, elbows, knees, takedowns to follow striking combos, etc. Good Luck!!!

How "good" TKD is really depends on the TKD system you are in... American TKD is a little better for self-defence than Olympic TKD which will get your head bashed in were you to use it in a bar fight. (of course it's great as a sport if that's what you are looking for). What specifically are you looking for or at what TKD system are you looking?

I know people who've taken Kendo. They didn't concider it a serious self-defence class, but enjoyed it for the tradition and training.

Lots of views!!! I think that this really has to do with your body in particular (what are your natural strengths and weaknessess? how is your body built?) and your style.

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I did a striking art for 4 years before beginning any real grappling training. I caught on a little more quickly than most people because of my awareness of balance and and movement, but it still took a while to get the hang of it.

Oh, and my old style was white yellow blue green purple brown brown/tip brown/two tips black

Is a reverse roundhouse like a hook kick? A hook kick is where you pretty much do a side kick (without quite the force) to a point 5 or 6 inches to the side of your opponent's head (to the same side that your knee is pointing), then pull your heel back into their head (here is where you put in the force:)). If not, what is it like?

Jiffy brings up an interesting legal point. US courts do not view a weapon that you carry with you any differently than one that you just pick up (so says my boyfriend who is also one of my instructors and well read on the subject and almost finnished with law school- Note: This is not legal advice as neither he nor I have the right to give any out) however..... the cop arresting you, DA prosecuting you, and jury deciding your case will most certainly allow it to color their perspective of the case.

Welcome!!!

I agree that MA are most affective when combining striking and grappling. I do, however, realize that some people do not do MA for self-defense, but for fun, to get in shape, or to compete. Kajukenbo is a fun MA that combines them both.

I'd say legs.... Karate- Deep stances and strong base to do heavy strikes from. Kicks. Kajukenbo- Base, Speed, Kicks, Sweeps Judo- Position, Lifting (Seo Nage), Sweeping, Reaping, Position. BJJ- Guard, Sweeps, OmaPlatta/armbar/triangle from guard-type moves.

Yeh, Kajukenbo will give you a different approach to your training- more self-defense- less of the sport. It's awesome, though not in all areas yet.

I was just wondering what people think about the idea of practicing perfect traditional technique versus going with those which work best for the individual.