Bad Ankles and Martial Arts?

[SunshineFace]

I'm 16 and have had a lot of trouble with my ankles (especially my left within the past year because I've sprained it twice within that time period,running),and the only sports I do are track (which I can no longer do) and dance which I can't do anymore either (well,the styles I like)..So I was thinking about physical activities that I could do,and was wondering about martial arts because I don't really know too much about them,but I know like dance and track they require commitment both mentally and physically,and I like that.Could I do it even though my ankles not the greatest?It's really repetetive pounding (running) and jumping that I can't really handle too well.And what style of martial arts would you recommend?

Thanks.

[ArisuTanaka]

Yeah, i do freestyle. most schools will allow you to work "at your own pace", i myself have sprained my left ankle (roll-out style). So i know where you are coming from. Just talk to an instructor at a school near you. Oh yeah not all dojo's(schools) are alike so you may want to look around at a few. Got any more Q's?

[Sohan]

I'm 16 and have had a lot of trouble with my ankles (especially my left within the past year because I've sprained it twice within that time period,running),and the only sports I do are track (which I can no longer do) and dance which I can't do anymore either (well,the styles I like)..So I was thinking about physical activities that I could do,and was wondering about martial arts because I don't really know too much about them,but I know like dance and track they require commitment both mentally and physically,and I like that.Could I do it even though my ankles not the greatest?It's really repetetive pounding (running) and jumping that I can't really handle too well.And what style of martial arts would you recommend?

Thanks.

Roller blading is great for developing ankle strength without the pounding. You should also consider getting a dumbbell and doing single leg standing calf raises--they really helped me rehab a broken/sprained ankle I suffered in a motorcycle wreck many years ago.

As far as MA goes, I have found my karate practice has done wonders for developing balance and strength in my joints. Kung fu is also a good option as it develops grace and agility and helps you to develop better movement mechanics.

With respect,

Sohan

[SunshineFace]

Well..Considering winter is coming,rollerblading really isn't an option for me right now.I'm in physical therapy right now,so regaining strength and mobility isn't an issue,it's more of what I'll be able to do in the future to replace what I can't do.

Umm...I don't really know what style of MA I want to do since I don't know much about any,but I want one that has a good balance of everything and that wouldn't be too stressful on my ankle.I don't really care too much about the fighting/contact..Are there any styles that focus more on forms/katas than others?

Edited November 5, 2006 by SunshineFace

[Rick_72]

What does your physical therapist say? Your doctor?

Considering the focus of kicks in TKD, I'm kind of surprised you would want to go that route with ankle problems. Keep in mind the impact that your ankles receive when executing an kick with proper technique. Or having one blocked for that matter.

I'd say if your doctor clears you for it, I'd consider Aikido for a lower impact on my lower legs. While there is a lot of leg and footwork play in Aikido, you won't be pounding them into your opponents in kumite, or heavy bags all that often.

[SunshineFace]

My PT and doctor are saying that maybe I'll be able to run again,but I really don't want to risk not ever really being able to do anything again since I'm only 16...

[SunshineFace]

Anyone else?

[bushido_man96]

I think that you can do well in the martial arts. Tai chi is a style that focuses on very slow, focused movements, and is very low-impact, and I don't believe very many styles of it have sparring. Like Rick_72 said, you may impact your ankles doing some kicking techniques, but, then again, it may not bother you that much.

I would check around if I were you, and look into as many different schools as you can. Watch a class, and ask questions. Make sure the instructor's style will fit you. Best of luck, and welcome to the forums!

[SunshineFace]

Thanks.

I found a school that offers Judo,Karate,Hapkido,Kung Fu,kickboxing,Tae Kwon Do and special weapons classes...Do you think it would be any good?I can check it out after school today.

Then there are a couple others that I may check out also at some point soon.

[Fosgate]

I've had good results using lace-up ankle braces. Not the $10-15 variety, mind you, but the $30 and up ones, specific to right or left, that keep feet from rolling out from under a leg, period.