Red J

While I believe that properly executed techniques are effective, I would never try to leave my feet, or leave myself in a position to be off balance. It is much easier to go low, keep your balance, and then you can kick to the head when they are doubled over.

This is very true. If you don't believe the writing analogy, try writing with your opposite hand. You really have to think about it. Kind of like when you first learned how to block. Soon it will become part of you and it will be second nature. I just hope my blocks are better than my handwriting!LOL!

Welcome!

Welcome!

Welcome!

...and footwork, combinations, and overall philosophies...

Great job on the new changes!

At 19, you have most of your life ahead of you! It's a great time to get into MA. Try the intro classes and hang out afterwards. You can get the real feedback of a school from its students. Most are happy to talk to newcomers.

Get in there and start moving! You'll be amazed in just a short time what dieting and MA training combined will do for your overall health.

Welcome

Welcome aboard!

Welcome, I hope you enjoy your stay in the US!

Welcome, you are going to love it!

Well put, I totally agree.

"many people seem to over use their muscles rather than their body to fire off punches and kicks. " Bobby, I agree with this statement. Watch a beginner throw a punch or even a roundhouse kick. Most try to "power" it through. The real power comes with the refinement of the technique. An advanced student will use their body, with its natural leverage and torque, to produce an outstanding result (and make it look easy ).

I would have you look at styles that have "animal influences" in them.

I am returning from a big layoff and I am amazed at how fast it is coming back. I am in a new style so the mental part of putting pressure on myself is not there as if I were expected to perform at a previous level. My combinations and katas have come so quickly, that I was invited to the advanced class in short time (I didn't tell anyone of my previous experience, except my sensei, because that would also put pressure on me and be disrespectful. Some of the higher ranks have figured it out, though.) You never really lose it, and if you do it will come back quickly if you work hard. Getting past the mental part is the hardest part. It is much easier than starting from scratch!

It's worth the visit.

I had a simular experience in college and after a time found a club that met on campus (it was free to students ). Although it was a different style, it enhanced my experience level. I also trained on my own practicing my katas and combinations. Eventually, I found a guy in the same boat that was a 1st degree in Isshin Ryu and we started our own workouts. Keep your eyes open and you shall see!!!

The Tiger form that I am learning is a powerful and crushing style. The Tiger seems to "move through" your opponent. I am not familar with the Mantis, unfortunately.

I can appreciate that other people do not wear shoes, and put their feet through tough conditioning, for I've been there too. I trained outdoors for 18 months barefooted. However, the reason for the post is to see what shoes are recommended for carpeting. I'll check on the Discipline's, Pacificshore. Red J

I have returned from a 15 year layoff. I started MA in college and earned a brown belt in Karate (Japanese). I recently began Shoalin Kempo and I am amazed at how the basics are returning as I was invited to the advanced class in a short time. I am enjoying the health benefits and the major stress relief that MA provides. I have enjoyed the forum so far and look forward to participating. Red J

I recently joined a dojo that is carpeted and requires training shoes. Since I have never used shoes in MA training I am asking for feedback. My current training involves karate, kungfu, and some grappling. I have seen the Addidas and Kwon shoes and have looked at some wrestling shoes. Is there a difference? Any advice is appreciated as my crosstrainers are not getting it. Red J