Re-starting my journey but stuck on what style to do!

[SA Karate]

Returning to training is something to be proud of. Forget guilt, forget regret. Simply get back into training slowly at first. Much of your training as you gain higher rank should be on your own. Meaning that there are 7 days in a week and you need to plan ahead, go slowly at first, do only what you have planned. For instance, if you have not throw kicks for months or more, it is best to be gradual to avoid several things. One is injury, if you over train injury is imminent, so slowly at first. Understanding that karate is a lifestyle more than microwave type results. I have taught 80 year olds and there is little difference between them and a beginner or someone in their 40's. everyone, even returning black belts MUST get back to training slowly at first. Second reason is your mind. Pain is not something your body wants or your mind, we are all wired to avoid pain. So if you over do it, naturally you will want to avoid training. It is natural. Third is understanding the road you are on. For instance a friend of mine can teach anyone to run a 26 mile marathon. Yes anyone! He has done it. His secret if you will is start off slow, run 100 meters first. Then do the same for the week, then increase the distances. Eventually the marathon. So, NO guilt! NO regret! It is to be applauded that someone desires to return to training. That is where you start. Then slowly, gently, no hard kicks, understanding that the body is doing something new and needs to adjust and get used to this new activity. Move the knees slowly, deliberately at home, no pressure. Hold on to a chair or counter top and gently move. Then diet, meaning nutrition, eat good earthly foods, stay away from fried and fast foods. Eat greens, etc. of the 5000 people that start karate only about 5 reach yudansha/black belt. Those that start rarely return after quiting. Thus the one in a thousand rule. Be the one, do it for life, for health, for mental fitness as well. Understanding that goals are to be preset and not be outrageous. You are already a success. I hope this helps you and many others. Spiro. Sarasota, Florida.

[Wabit]

@SA Karate.

Thank you. I've been to a few lessons now and am enjoying it immensely. the knees are holding out better then they where when I was younger.

Pad work has helped a lot and building the muscles up in my legs have helped as well. So I'm now in the Gym up to 3 times a week and Karate 3 times a week one week and once a week the next. (Work getting in the way, but trying to change that).